Life At The Well

A conversation several weeks ago produced an interesting revelation for me: a woman I know commented how her intentions and desires to follow Jesus were hamstrung by circumstances. I was praying already for God to show me a way through some irregularitites and abnormal circumstances that were a part of my family's life at the time. With my routine and schedule disrupted, many of my 'spiritual' practices and habits were also disrupted ... some for an extended period of time. I sensed that my growing irritation at these circumstances was multiplied by the gnawing spiritual frustration that accompanied my broken disciplines.

Then I found Dallas Willard's description of the 'Golden triangle' of spiritual formation, which included "the faithful acceptance of everyday problems, and endurance of trials with patience." Frankly, I needed the wake-up that every day is an opportunity to grow more like Jesus Christ, or to drift toward self-exaltation. The old bumper sticker: "This IS your life" came to mind. I needed to see anew that God's ability to be present in every moment and circumstance was tied to my willingness to be available to Him in every moment and circumstance. With this, God has awakened in me a desire to pray for and grow in patience, because my life (like everyone else's, I think) is never 'normal.' There are always interruptions, troubles and trials ... sometimes more intense than others, but ALWAYS present. So this stage of my journey is intentionally engaging in disciplines that allow God to grow with grace in the virtue of patience.

I know that fasting is one disipline toward this end. I also am finding a new emphasis on solitude helpful, but I am also curious about other people's experiences in self-denial and waiting. I'd love to hear what has been helpful, what has been difficult and what has been effective.

Thanks ... and peace to you,
harry