Choosing Hard Things or Choosing Abuse? (A Lenten Reflection)

But how do I know?  How do I know if I am choosing hard things or choosing self-abuse?  How do I know if I am being refined or being exploited?

Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness… (Matthew 4:1)

We must be Spirit-led.

Even the most spiritual, selfless endeavors, if not Spirit-led are folly.

David was a man after God’s heart.  He said to his prophet-friend Nathan, “my heart’s desire is to build a beautiful temple for God.  Here I sit in a palace of finery while God dwells in a dusty, blustery tent.” Nathan said – “God is with you, follow what your heart tells you.” But that night, Nathan had a dream. God said, “Excuse me? Were you going to get my input on these plans that you’re making for me??” (2 Samuel 7, paraphrase)

Don’t get caught making plans for God.

Oh sure, you are welcome to tell God all your great ideas. But then, let God be God of “the plan.”

Man makes plans in his heart, but God directs the steps (Proverbs 16:9).

Learn to hear the voice and leading of the Spirit of God. Then you will know if you step into refinement by holy fire or destruction. Then you can discern whether you are being granted relief or being deceived into choosing half-truths and shallow-faith (Matthew 4).

Yes, suffering plays a role in the Jesus-seeking life (see The Point of Breaking)!  May your suffering prune and prove your faith. May your hope and joy grow.  May Lent break you open in holy ways and fill you anew with new wine (Mark 2:22).  May you grow in discernment to intentionally choose hard things and to firmly say, “no” to abuse and deceit. (Matthew 4:10)




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