Waiting in the Wings

For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God.

Tag: Philippians

Making a Place for God

“Humble Ascension” by Meghan Williams of Dyed4you Art 

There is a Jewish teaching that speaks of how, in the beginning, God filled all things. In order to begin the process of creation, He had to “contract” Himself to make space for the universe. This is why one of God’s names is “Ha-Makom” or “The Place,” as God is the place of all creation. This concept has alway made me think of how women “make space” within themselves for the conception and growth of new life. 

The beauty in our relationship with God is that we are designed to reflect His nature. We too can “contract” or empty ourselves through the attribute of humility. Humility isn’t about stripping ourselves of our intrinsic, godly value. If anything, having a healthy sense of our self-worth helps us to recognize the value of others. From this place, we can joyfully step back and give someone else a chance to shine. Even more, we can “take a step” back in our hearts, thoughts, and daily activities so that God might shine through. You could say we have the opportunity to return the favor to Ha-Makom by making space for Him in this world.

In my personal experience, I’ve watched how powerfully the Holy Spirit moves when I intentionally make space for Him in my life. “Making space” often requires me to pause and lay down my own thoughts, motives, schedule, and agenda before taking action in a matter. It means making space for God in my day, my home, and my business. I invite His thoughts and motives to take up residence in my heart and mind.

When it comes to prayer, I try to remember that it doesn’t have to be a lonely, one-way conversation; God is faithful to respond when I give Him room to speak. And when I feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do in a situation, I know that it’s time for me to realign; I pause, choose to become an empty vessel, and I invite Holy Spirit to have His way. He will move mightily when we step back and invite Him into any situation. 

Humility can be a joyful place to live from. Just as God didn’t cease to exist when He contracted and brought about creation, neither do we lose our value or purpose when we humble ourselves. If anything, our purpose and value is filled to overflowing when it is filled with the Presence of the Almighty God.

John 3:30 (ESV) He must become greater; I must become less.

Philippians 2: 5-8 (NASB) Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, as He already existed in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself by taking the form of a bond-servant and being born in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death: death on a cross.

In the Form of Christ

“One Body (Unity in Christ)” by Meghan Williams of Dyed4you Art

{vision} I saw different American Olympic athletes posing as if for a photo shoot meant to display their new team uniforms. What stood out to me was that, although the athletes had different types of uniforms based on their sport, all of the uniforms used the same set of colors. (Royal blue was the predominant color.) The consistency of the color is what would make it clear to others that they were all on the same team.

As I pressed in for the download for this vision, I was led to look up the definition of the word uniform. As a noun, the Concise Oxford English Dictionary defines uniform as “the distinctive clothing worn by members of the same organization or body or by children attending certain schools.” Looking at the etymology of the word, uniform is derived from the latin uniformis, uni- meaningone; having or consisting of oneand form meaning “body, shape, or configuration.” Immediately, I thought of the fact that humans are made in the image or “form” of God. 

Deuteronomy 6:4 highlights an important aspect of God’s nature; it tells us that “The LORD is our God, the LORD is one.” In this verse, the word for one in Hebrew is echad. Echad has a variety of nuances, including uniqueness, singularity, and compound unity. Certainly, the Body of Christ is meant to express echad with many members acting together as one. Though each of us has a unique purpose and function in the Body, we all work towards a common goal—that upward call of God in Christ (Philippians 3:14). 

Our unity is akin to the unity among Olympic athletes; though they each may compete in different sports, an individual’s actions will ultimately reflect upon their entire team as well as their nation. Olympic athletes represent a nation’s best as far as prowess in their sport. They train hard and are proud to compete on behalf of their country. I also imagine they must also be proud to wear their uniforms, the very symbol of their role as an Olympic athlete.

It is much the same for those of us who follow the call of Christ. For by the Spirit, we train hard to crucify our flesh and become mighty athletes of the Spirit. We are proud to walk the earth and represent the Kingdom of Heaven. Most of all, we display our unity by putting on Christ. When clothed with love, anyone who encounters us knows which team we are proudly playing for. 

Galatians 3:27 (NLT) And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes.

Galatians 5:22-23 (TPT) But the fruit produced by the Holy Spirit within you is divine love in all its varied expressions: joy that overflows, peace that subdues, patience that endures, kindness in action, a life full of virtue, faith that prevails, gentleness of heart, and strength of spirit. Never set the law above these qualities, for they are meant to be limitless.

John 13:35 (NKJV) By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.

My Spirit is Your Provision

“His Eye is on the Sparrow” by Meghan Williams, Dyed4you Art

Beloved one, I have called you away from your old life and have led you into new territory. You have crossed over into a time of inheriting My promises. Resist the urge to feel shame over your weaknesses or to feel overwhelmed by this new territory. For you have not crossed over alone; I have pledged Myself to you as a husband and will walk by your side all your days. I will be your strength and sufficiency as you navigate this new terrain.

My care for you is deeper than you know. I see every detail of your life. I have both planned all your days and have fashioned your form. I know you well, beloved. I also know the cracks and bruises of your heart brought through past experiences. I am mindful of what you will need to walk in all I have called you to. As I have guided you to this new place in your life, know with certainty that I have already provided for you here. Indeed, My Spirit is your provision. 

Therefore, when you feel lost, afraid, or overwhelmed, still yourself and remember that I Am with you. At times, I will move in your circumstances or move through others to be your support. At other times, the gift of My Spirit within you will be available to empower and guide you. So in your moments of weakness and need, lean upon Me. Naturally and supernaturally, I will be there to supply all your needs. 

Philippians 4:19 (TPT) I am convinced that my God will fully satisfy every need you have, for I have seen the abundant riches of glory revealed to me through the Anointed One, Jesus Christ!

Recreated by His Word

“Grace Full Transformation” by Meghan Williams, Dyed4you Art

Psalm 33:6, 9 (NKJV) By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, And all the host of them by the breath of His mouth. … For He spoke, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast.

To read the first chapter of the book of Genesis, I never cease to be in awe of how God brought about creation through the breath of His mouth. What He spoke came forth into existence just as He envisioned. And what began in chaos and void, was shaped and filled into a thing of beauty. Creation is God’s canvas and the very the manifestation of His thoughts. But have you ever considered how creation is still responding to God’s words? Even more, have you ever considered how you and I are being created—or recreated—by the words that God speaks?

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