I cannot tell a lie: I want a smartphone. I want the handy internet access, the ability to take cute, easy pics and play with endless apps. And, hello? Ev-er-y-one has it. Or almost everyone.
But in this season, the Lord puts the kabosh on this for me.
The reason? Because I am not self controlled enough to own one. My laptop proves distracting enough, and tearing myself away from it takes willpower. To shrink that portable computer into something I can fit in my pocket or purse is mighty dangerous. For me, for now.
Until I learn to exercise more willpower with the laptop, the Lord says no to a smartphone. So in the meantime, my un-smartphone and I party like it’s 2007.
Now, you may be perfectly sensible with your smartphone, so it holds a proper place in your life. But maybe the Lord has put the kabosh on something different for you, something you want. Something that is a good thing, just not a good-for-you-right-now thing. And I’m not talking about bigger, out-of-our control desires, but rather smaller ones. Maybe you fancy a new outfit for a special event. Maybe you want to attend that conference “everyone” will be attending. But for reasons you may or may not know, God puts up a holy barrier and whispers to your heart, “It’s not for you, sweet thing. Not now.”
Our lives hold no details too small for God’s care and attention. If the Lord cares enough to count the hairs on our heads, He cares enough to steer our smaller, day-to-day choices. I love the way Sarah Young describes what this Jesus led guidance looks like:
“Walk with Me along paths of trust. The most direct route between point A and point B on your life journey is the path of unwavering trust in Me.” Jesus Calling, p. 264
When I say yes to His no, I take steps forward in a direct route towards His trust. My steps here are small, but they’re small steps in the right direction. When in obedience I show a heart’s willingness to be faithful with the small, I show I can be faithful with the big.
Maybe I’ll have a smart phone next year. Maybe you’ll attend that conference. Maybe not. Regardless of tomorrow, let’s walk forward together today in obedience, trusting and believing His no to a good thing leaves space for a yes to a better thing.
Has the Lord whispered, “It’s not for you, sweet thing. Not now.” to your heart over the small lately? What better thing has come from saying yes to His no?
By Kristen Strong, Chasing Blue Skies
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