Looking Like What You’ve Been Through
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For as long as I can remember, I’ve heard the saints utter, “I don’t look like what I’ve been through.” But sometimes, transparently speaking…we do! While it’s the day after the observance of the Resurrection, some may still be wandering around looking like the representation of Friday at Calvary. And folx around us can be less helpful. They may utter words of confirmation that align with how you are feeling or what you are experiencing. Nevertheless, for whatever we’ve been through, going through or getting ready to enter, God’s favor, protection, provision and deliverance will manifest…in due season.
A few days ago, I was listening to my “curated station” on Apple music. The song “Take it to Jesus” by Anna Golden came on. I began to weep. I began to pray. I began to petition God for what is needed in this moment. Even in my devotion, the enemy elected to disrupt my pattern of praise. When I allowed myself to consider his trickery and his revolt against what I was believing God for, a new song came on and interrupted my imagination. It was if God handpicked the selection as a reminder and affirmation of who He is. The song, Firm Foundation by Cody Carnes began to play. I heard the Holy Spirit say, “You can trust in Jesus because He is Your Firm Foundation!” My God! I may look like what I’m going through, but more importantly or rather most importantly, God will still God no matter what! My countenance does not change the confidence I have in Him. My posture does not alter His promise. My weariness does not disrupt His will. My waiting does not diminish His wonder. We can look like we are under attack and still be in great expectation of the victory.
Societal norms suggest that we must “put on,” while God expects that we shed and “take off.” We must condition ourselves to worry less about those around us who sit in judgement as compared to the One that chooses to extend mercy and grace. As our hearts traverse trouble and our minds battle sustainability amidst chaos, God is an ever present help. Somehow we got it twisted. God accepts our demolished state and yearns to reconstruct us to His desired state, as a beautiful monument of restoration as to His redeeming power. If the end result is a move of God that will overwhelm your current set of circumstances, who cares what you look like? Our presentation doesn’t reflect upon God’s ability to show Himself mighty. If you dressed up yesterday or as the youngins say, “ate down,” you can put away your Easter best and come to God just as you are. He’s waiting. He’s willing. After all, it’s why He went to Calvary. So come.