Shadows – Devotion 179 – SEEING THE EXTRAORDINARY

We can easily find ourselves living in the shadows of the expectations set for us. We do our best to fulfill what others believe we should do or be or think. We let others speak destiny over us without even considering what has happened. We listen to the advice of those who seem to know better. They tell us who we are. They instruct us on who we should be. They advise us of our career path. They have all of these ideas and those are poured onto us . It doesn’t take long before we become someone who others want to see. And we wonder why we are unhappy, unfulfilled and trying to find our way.

It is interesting how things spoken about us carry for many years. Those people who told us who we should be or what we should do may not even be here anymore. They may not play a role in our lives at all. It may have been someone we knew in the past that we haven’t seen or heard from. It may even be someone we wouldn’t trust under any circumstances now that we know better. But their opinions and ideas have been embedded into our minds and have affected who we are. That is, until we realize we are living in the shadow. And we still can step out of it. It is not too late.

If we believe that God is the creator and designer, then we also must believe that he created us for something good. He didn’t give the design control to someone else. He didn’t stop caring about us and leave us in the hands of random people to tell us who we could be and what we must do. He has been involved since the beginning and will continue to be – forever. So why not listen to the One who creates? Why not consult the artist about his magnificent work? Why not consult the sculptor on his masterpiece?

God’s plans for us include joy, fulfillment, peace, and overflowing love. If this isn’t where you find yourself, consult the artist. If you are lost in the shadows of the expectations set for you, step out. God will guide us. He will direct us. He will show us just how amazing we really are. We just need to listen to him – not everyone else. Step out, stand tall, and step forward. So much awaits – and it is good.

Focus Scripture:

Isaiah 43:1-2

But now thus says the Lord,
    he who created you, O Jacob,
    he who formed you, O Israel:
Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
    I have called you by name, you are mine.
²When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
    and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;
when you walk through fire you shall not be burned,
    and the flame shall not consume you.