Embracing

Embracing

“–verb (used with object)
1.to take or clasp in the arms; press to the bosom; hug.
2.to take or receive gladly or eagerly; accept willingly: to embrace an idea.
3.to avail oneself of: to embrace an opportunity.
4.to adopt (a profession, a religion, etc.): to embrace Buddhism.
5.to take in with the eye or the mind.
6.to encircle; surround; enclose.
7.to include or contain: An encyclopedia embraces a great number of subjects.
(online dictionary 4.19.2010).

Embracing (verb) the will of God (object). Embracing (verb) God (object).

Embracing God.

It does happen. There is a moment that can be experienced. The moment of transformation when the spirit, mind, emotion, heart, will is transformed into God’s Spirit, Mind, Emotion, Heart, and Will.

Two weeks ago this transformational moment occurred. I can remember it vividly or at least I can remember the moment when my will was set in one direction and then the moment when my will changed and embraced God’s will. How do I know this happened? - Because I was struggling, fussing, tossing and turning, and in flux. Not all at once, in fact, I was putting one foot in front of the other, taking steps to (continue) to bloom where I was planted, and experiencing moments of contentment where the Lord had placed me. But from time to time lapses of discontent would enter in, betraying my contentment.

Prayer would come. I would continue to ask the Lord for direction, for change, for it to look like this or look like that – and end with “I am willing Lord for whatever it is You have God…just let me know it’s You. I don’t want to go where You aren’t taking me; I don’t want to stay where You are keeping me. Thank You Lord.”

After living in my current location for approximately 6 years, my prayer was one more time, “I have open hands Lord, my heart is open, if this is where You want me to be, then I receive You here.” And then … peace (Psalm 46:4). And amazement. As if the whirlpool had ceased and the water was calm. Transformation happened (Romans 12:2).

So, is the will of God that I continue to live at my current location? Is this transformation about a location, a gifting, or a particular ministry? Well, it may be. However, this transformation is more about embracing what the Lord is doing in and through me and what He wants to do in and through me. Embracing the reality that God’s ways aren’t mine, and that my life is not mine, and my preferences aren’t the Preferred Option.