Have you ever wanted something so bad that you would use the word “longing” to describe it? I think as a teenager this would apply on an immature level (Guess jeans, Swatch watch, cutest boy in school). Then in my 20’s I was longing for babies, family and the means to pay for it all. In my 30’s my longing turned more emotional – hoping I was doing this “mom-thing” right and longing for validation and applause from others to confirm I was a good mom. Now in my 40’s, I’m longing for it to slow down and even more, for life to make sense. You put in the work and bravo – you get a great outcome. Nope, not always.
What about you? Are you longing, not just wanting something, but really longing for something? I feel you and understand. Today I am cheering on friends dealing with terminal illness in a loved one, friends whose kids are tough and so many friends who are in the same situation as mine – wondering where and when the train started heading off the track and how in the world we missed the signs. In short, aren’t we are all longing for life to have purpose, meaning, direction and to be filled with love, loyalty and acceptance?
Thank goodness for God, right?! I am not implying that He fixes it all; but when things get to the point of no return, He leads us to peace. Usually the peace settles in when we get out of our own way and out of our head. I have been encouraged when I get to the end of my rope to say, “Good. God, this where You begin”, and completely surrender. Surrender the need to please others, surrender the pressure that comes when we give too much weight to what others think of us and surrender our insecurities that hold us back. I hope you are able to surrender those feelings holding you back and embrace your path with God which will satisfy your longings.
Resources/Inspiration:
Verse:
Psalm 42:1 (CSB): “As a deer longs for flowing streams, so I long for you, God.”
Book:
The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For by Rick Warren
Devotional:
A Confident Heart: 60 Days to Stop Doubting Yourself by Renee Swope
Quote:
“God put a longing in hearts for unfailing love because He knew it would lead us back to Him.” – Renee Swope
