Every week, I read lots of blogs. I’m drawn to writers who are vulnerable and honest in their blogs, because I think the world needs more honesty. If someone were to ask me today, “How are you?” my automatic response would be, “I’m good.” But my honest response would be…. I’ve been feeling restless. I’ve been wondering if what I’m doing now is what God wants me to continue doing, or if He has something else planned. The overwhelming sense of peace that I used to feel is now replaced by moments of peace and waves of restlessness. For someone who likes to have everything planned out, feeling restless is scary and uncomfortable. I was talking with a friend today and told her how I’ve been feeling. I was surprised when she admitted that she has also been feeling restless. I would’ve never known this unless I had been honest with her in the first place. At that moment, I sensed God saying, “See….I brought you a friend who understands what you’re going through. I place specific people in your life at a specific time for a reason. You two can support one another.” I’m thankful for the honest conversation I had with my friend today. Maybe I’m feeling restless because God has something different planned for me. Maybe I’m feeling restless because He’s using this season of my life to strengthen certain aspects of my character. Maybe it's a good thing to feel restless. If feeling restless causes us to pursue God more and ultimately fulfill His purpose for our lives, then maybe we shouldn't want to settle with being comfortable. In her study, Restless, Jennie Allen says: “The restlessness we feel is not a bad thing. I believe it is the longing and passion in us for God – for more. It could push us to move forward, to live epic lives that were designed before the foundations of the earth were laid.” If you’re feeling restless, maybe it’s because God doesn’t want you to settle for less than what He’s created you for. Pray for wisdom and discernment, and surround yourself with people who will encourage you along the way. I’d be happy to be one of those people if you need someone.
6 Comments
Andrea Maurice
9/6/2016 05:37:13 am
Perfect timing. As I grow in my faith, sometimes I imagine that God will magically erase the challenges in our lives.
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Julie
9/6/2016 09:56:51 pm
Thanks for sharing, Andrea. I think many people expect life to get easier as they grow in their faith, but the truth is God never promises us an easy life.
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Mary Ellen
9/6/2016 09:00:20 am
What a beautiful blog. I want you to know "I understand" about feeling restless. There had been so many times in my life that I have experienced this. It is a struggle to hang on and really discern the voice of God. Sometimes my restlessness has been God stretching me in new ways. Sometimes my restlessness has been a chink in my armor and negativity and doubt squeeze in. The best thing I have learned to do is to be still. Don't act. Listen. Pray. God will let you know His plan.
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Julie
9/6/2016 10:01:32 pm
Mary Ellen,
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Julie
9/7/2016 10:02:22 pm
Amanda, at least we can be restless together!
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