Sometimes God leads us to do the impossible.
As I waited for the sunrise to go for my walk, it started raining. I thought, Oh, no! If I don’t go for a walk now, I won’t get to go at all today!
Simple problems. Sometimes even the simplest challenge can seem impossible at the moment. I also realize that my emotions can cause me to exaggerate my problems at times.
Life and death issues. I don’t intend to compare my insignificant problems with the life and death issues others are facing right now. I’m well aware of how many people face horrific, painful circumstances every day. And as I look at my circumstances in light of the needs of others, my problems often seem trivial.
Crises in Spain. My writing life often pushes me out of my comfort zone toward some “impossible” dreams. It led me into the academic world where I faced all kinds of uncomfortable situations.
Some of my most memorable learning experiences occurred in Spain. During that summer in Spain, God revealed His faithful guidance and strength as I faced my limitations and weaknesses.
Limitations. Immersed in another culture and language, I discovered I had taken on an academic endeavor far beyond my abilities, and I felt totally incompetent to complete it. My personal weaknesses became painfully obvious, as I experienced the reality of my limitations.
I’d been pacing myself as I pursued a course of study as a nontraditional student, commuting to school from home. But after a few weeks in Spain, without warning, I crashed—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Like an athlete, I hit the wall, suddenly losing all my strength after a long, difficult journey.
Spiritual Truths. I also re-discovered five important spiritual truths about impossibility during this difficult period of time in Spain.
- Some things are impossible to do in my own strength. “Humanly speaking, it is impossible . . .” (Matt. 19:26 NLT).
- All things are possible with God. “But with God everything is possible.” (Matt. 19:26 NLT)
- I can do anything God calls me to do. “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength” (Phil. 4:13 NLT).
- God will complete the work that He began in me. “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within (me), will continue his work until it is finally finished . . .” (Phil. 1:6 NLT).
- God gives me His strength, when I am weak. “That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Cor. 12:10 NLT).
Reflection. These promises from God’s Word continue to encourage me as I face the impossibilities of my writing life. And I’m thankful that God offers His powerful promises to all who choose to believe His Word.
I’ll never forget some of the painful lessons I learned in Spain—and I still bear some of the scars from that experience. Now, I try not to take on more than I can handle, since I’m more aware of my limitations. In fact, I hit the wall faster and more frequent than ever as life takes its toll on me. So, I’m trying to stay focused on the course set for me.
Impossible? What seems impossible for you today?
Remember this promise as you face your impossible dreams and goals: ”Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.” (Matt. 19:26 NLT).
What seems impossible for you today? Does your situation seem hopeless, difficult, or ridiculous to even consider?
