We have control over our prayer life, our relationship with Jesus.
The truth is that the Spirit of the living God is guaranteed to ask you to go somewhere or do something you wouldn't normally want or choose to do. The Spirit will lead you into the way of the cross, as He led Jesus to the cross, and that is definitely not a safe or pretty or comfortable place to be. The Holy Spirit of God will mold you into the person you were made to be.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The Holy Spirit often guides us toward challenges and growth that we may initially resist but are essential for our true selves.
This quote emphasizes that the guidance of the Holy Spirit often leads individuals to uncomfortable situations that are vital for personal development and spiritual growth. Just as Jesus was led to the cross, believers are encouraged to embrace the challenges imposed by the Spirit, which ultimately shape them into their intended selves. It reflects the paradox of finding purpose and fulfillment in surrendering to a path that may seem daunting or undesirable at first.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a sermon discussing the importance of following one's spiritual calling.
More from Francis Chan
All quotes →A disciple is a disciple maker.
Don't fall into the trap of studying the Bible without doing what it says.
Our God listens to us. Our God is a living God. He's not a block of wood you made up that's not going to answer you. My God listens to me. He answers me.
...I don't have to worry about not meeting His expectations. God will ensure my success in accordance with His plan, not mine.
People who are obsessed with Jesus aren't consumed with their personal safety and comfort above all else. Obsessed people care more about God's kingdom coming to this earth than their own lives being shielded from pain or distress.
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I'm not walking by sight- I'm, walking by faith
Let the storm rage and the sky darken - not for that shall we be dismayed. If we trust as we should in Mary, we shall recognize in her, the Virgin Most Powerful "who with virginal foot did crush the head of the serpent.
Patience is tied very closely to faith in our Heavenly Father. Actually, when we are unduly impatient, we are suggesting that we know what is best—better than does God. Or, at least, we are asserting that our timetable is better than His. We can grow in faith only if we are willing to wait patiently for God's purposes and patterns to unfold in our lives, on His timetable.