I’ve been burdened, driven, and desperate to do more for God. One night I woke with the words, “God and generals” running through my mind. I had no clue what that meant, but made a note to pray and see what God would reveal. For over two months, I couldn’t find an answer, and then finally God brought clarity. I’ve been overly focused on the earthly battles – the devastating needs around the world.

God blessed with a visual. I saw myself on a battlefield, looking at the overwhelming needs. I’d let out a scream, and then run around trying to put out fires with a little pail of water. I would see another need and then another, and another, and another, and not accomplish much of anything other than screaming and running. Then God revealed He already has a fire team lined up to put out the fires and I’m merely getting in the way. Instead of running around like a chicken with my head cut off, I need to be talking to God, my General, and follow His battle plan.

A General sees the overall picture and he knows where everyone needs to be during every part of the battle. Each soldier has an assignment where they can be most effective. Can you imagine the chaos if everyone did only what he thought he should do? Yes, you would see Lisa running around screaming, trying to help, and merely getting in the way.

When Jesus walked the earth, He never ran, never seemed to be stressed-out by the needs and neediness of people – He kept focused on God and followed His commands. As a Christian my job is to follow Jesus. God is my General. I’m not responsible for fixing the world’s problems because I can’t fix the world’s problems whereas God can fix every problem. I can pray, for my prayers are never limited. However, where I go and what I do … I must follow Him. 

As His soldier, I need to keep my focus on God and follow His commands. That sounds hard but I need to remember Jesus lives within me via the Holy Spirit so I need to trust Him to guide, correct, and show me what to do. He will show me where I can be most effective. One person does not have the power, strength, and resources to fix and help everyone, but God has all the power, strength, and resources. God has the plan, I’m going to trust and follow Him.

Heavenly Father, help me to cease striving and know that You are God. Help me to delight myself in You for the joy of the Lord is my strength. As I trust and acknowledge You, You will direct my paths. Thank You that nothing is impossible for You, Your unfailing love will guide us, for You know the plans for each of us. I love You, Father!

(Psalm 46:10, Psalm 37:4, Nehemiah 8:10, Proverbs 3:5-6, Luke 1:37, Exodus 15:13, Jeremiah 29:11)

Photo by Lisa Buffaloe

From One Lit Step: Devotions for your journey by Lisa Buffaloe, Amazon — https://amzn.to/3cSBC06