Idols Stunt Us.

Reading through the obituary, I was blindsided by the words, “She took her own life.” Her life was no longer what she hoped it to be, was the explanation left for the life she ended. Stunned, and confused, one word resided in my heart; idols. Idols stunt us from the life we were meant to prosper in. At this moment, I fully grasped the danger of idols. Striving to be rid of any, as I seek to honor God with my life, I’m challenged to reach for the hidden. Idols represent a mistrust in God, and take a higher place than Him in our lives. 

For a season, I had lost everyone I leaned on. For one reason or another, I became isolated in one of the most treacherous seasons of life. Crying was a nightly routine. There was no one to lean into, or advice to be sought. For one year I learned to stand alone with God, being rid of every idol. That was the year God made me stronger, by overcoming loneliness, sickness, and anxiousness. Marked as one of my toughest years, I praise God. I praise Him because He loves me enough to have removed those idols in my life. He knows our real strength and security remain in Him. Unable to recognize this at the time, this was a gift He had given me. 

Learning of this friend’s passing, I thought about my life. If I lost the ability to raise my kids, love my husband, or run, how would I respond? These are the elements of who I am. Yet more than a wife and mom who loves to run, my passion is God. I recall a morning while running on the trail, I was anguished over the thought of losing God. What if I lost His love?  What if life got so bad, I walked away? The mere thought sent me spiraling into a fit of tears. I couldn’t bear it. The one word ringing through my ears was hopeless. My life would be meaningless if I didn’t have my faith in God. 

Steadying myself on the assurance of His love, I release every fear. Nothing should ever erect itself to a place higher than God. God is our only constant, all else can be lost.  Life is full of loss but God is gain. As Job lost everything, God restored to even better than before. Hard to imagine, but it’s true. 

What is the anguish that you feel? Trust God enough and give it to Him. It may hurt, but only for a mere moment. His love transpires all loss into gain. Many are swept up in suffering, through the loss of a child, physical health, and family, to name a few. They all keep reaching and trusting in God who promised to love them and never leave. Waiting for their miracle yet remaining steadfast in their commitment, knowing His goodness and trusting His timing. It is not easy and many grow weary, but they don’t give up. Strength is allowing God to shift your perspective and change out your lens. He gives us the vast opportunity to find more. If you’re at a loss in the identity you have held, fix your gaze on God. He gives generously. He gives meaning to the life He gave you. Seek and you will find, knock and He will answer. Matthew 7:7-8.