Humbling Experiences

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.  James 4:10 NLT

I went from a furnished (albeit my college furniture) 2 bedroom apartment in 2012 before I left Charleston to a one bedroom room at my uncles then to a spacious 1 bedroom apartment but only my bedroom furniture, a folding card table, a desk and some book shelves in New Orleans.  God told me not to get furniture in New Orleans because I wasn't staying there.  I then went from my large apartment and plethora of junk, knick knacks, and expansive closet full of clothes and shoes to a bedroom I rent from one of my friends, a large suitcase filled with clothes for the summer, a carry on with other things and a loaded down truck of stuff, which included no winter clothes, back to South Carolina where I am now.  It just dawned on me that all the things that I once took comfort in no longer are important.  It also taught me to trust and listen keenly to the voice of God because He has only given me little pieces of the vision and the plan as the day goes by.  God has made sure to provide my every need throughout this period of time by making sure I had money to provide for those needs,and making sure that I am able to come and go as I please.  

I must be honest though, it has truly been humbling.  I had to buy a new coat (I got a beautiful coat last Christmas from my mom that I miss dearly and I have my sequin Uggs that I love - judge me if you must) and winter clothes...but I have to truly say I am grateful to God that I have been in a position to do all of this.  I have been in a place of transition for the last 6 months but I have learned to listen more closely to God's voice.  Some of the things I have had to do make no sense to anyone else, not even to me, but I am grateful because He is working everything out so that I understand.  

At some point in all of our lives the things we experience will make absolutely no sense.  We can talk to our prayer partners and family members to gain clarity, but we still cannot see the big picture yet.  It is at these moments that God is humbling us and positioning us for His greatest use.  But if we are afraid and fearful, we won't take that first step.  

I had this grandiose plan about returning here.  I also had a plan for the next three years.  That plan has gone completely out of the window.  But its so beautiful to see and be living in God's plan, will and purpose for my life.  I took the first step of trusting Him and allowing Him to lead me, and I am so excited for what lies ahead.  I encourage you to embrace your humbling experiences.  Allow God to have His way.  It will truly change how you look at life.  Let the adventure begin!

So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor.  1 Peter 5:6 NLT