See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. Colossians 2:8.
It’s been a while since any new entries have been posted. People have asked if anything else is going to be written. At the time, they were told “no” because there was no energy for writing, nor were there any profound thoughts that sparked an entry. At some point, we all have to recognize fatigue and exhaustion. If we choose to ignore it, we can become our worst selves. However, if we pay attention to the tiredness, we stop and evaluate the source(s) of this malady. Sometimes the answer is as simple as “doing life” has gotten the best of us.
We must look at life as a road map with many curves, turns, shortcuts, and stops. But when we are on caution, we must take heed not to speed, make a wrong turn, take a detour, endanger others, or drive off the cliff. It’s funny because when we are not thinking about it, or paying attention, one incident can send us spiraling. Before we know it, we are broken down on the side of the road, dangling from a cliff, or falling to the foot of the mountain. All of this seems so melodramatic, but isn’t that how life presents itself? How we choose to drive determines our future.
For many, the past few years have been full of twists and turns. Some moments have been pleasant; others have been difficult, but the lesson learned is to acknowledge the weariness and make time to sit. We often think that if we keep busy, we won’t think; we won’t feel; and we won’t care. We are conditioned to keep “pushing through” and ignore our mental, physical, and emotional selves. But, even in the busyness, we have to acknowledge that in our human nature, we will break down; we will reach the bottom, and we will sit in silent reflection or in complete darkness.
It is in this period of reflection or darkness that we are most vulnerable to outside voices that spout supposed “pearls of wisdom,” give solicited and unsolicited advice, and present sheer negativity. It is during this time that we must be careful what we allow ourselves to hear. Are you careful about what is being poured into you and what you are being fed? There are predators that feed on vulnerable people with twisted theology, misinterpreted philosophy, and self-serving messages. One wrong piece of advice can lead to roads and avenues that should not be taken. These same messages can lead to the bottom of a valley instead of the peak of the mountain. So, how do we protect ourselves from lies and deceit from outside forces?
We must remember that we have the tools necessary to not fall prey to false prophesying and teaching. Our faith saves us. It is our commitment to God that keeps us from withering. We are the seed that has been planted for such as a time as this. “For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:20-21). In being planted, we have been rooted. It is during the difficult cycles of life that we must not lose faith and wither. It is not the time to lose faith and make ourselves susceptible to the evil doings of this world. It is the time when we stand firm and refuse to be uprooted.
Remember we have been planted and rooted firmly in the faith! Understand that being planted and rooted in the faith does not guarantee that there will not be challenges, disappointments, and pain. In the good times, we have faith. In the in-between times, we have faith. In difficult, extreme, and challenging times, we must especially hold on to faith. If we are firmly planted, we can’t be uprooted! Sometimes this means standing alone and being rejected because of family, friends, and others that don’t agree or understand the firmness of your foundation. “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:58. When we feel ready to give up on life and give in to the deceitful ways of the world, that is the time to dig in our heels and hold steadfast without being uprooted.
Coffee Reflections 