What’s Next as a Christ Follower?

Recently, I’ve been feeling like I’m at a spiritual crossroads. When you think of a crossroads you imagine the option of two routes in front of you and trying to figure out which way to go. But, this was different in my case because it seemed to be less about “which way to go” and more about “I can’t keep going in the same direction”.

I didn’t even know how I wound up stagnant and it’s frustrating me because I know that in God we’re always moving forward. At this point, I’m wondering what’s the problem because I’m doing all I know to do.

When we get saved, we immediately step into an eternal Kingdom and receive the Holy Spirit as the Guarantor of the promise. In that moment, we are reconciled to God and become eligible for all spiritual blessings.

At first, there are obvious changes we need to make. Quit smoking, end fornication, stop cursing, lying, etc. These things can take time. When you’re accustomed to doing your own thing, it’s tough to submit. But, as time goes on, these behaviors become easier to let go. The Holy Spirit’s leading becomes clearer and even when tempted, you’re able to say ‘No’.

Fast forward a few years and you think you’ve got it all down pat. You are faithful in your church, you tithe, pray, and study the Word regularly. You’re coasting through this thing called the Christian walk!

So, how far does this train go? Should I get off here at comfortable and mediocre, or take this train to the end of the line?

From Glory to Glory

From my humble observation, there seem to be 3 levels or phases of Christianity. At Level 1, you’re recently saved, a mere babe in Christ. At Level 2, you get the hang of your new life in Christ, you’ve changed your habits, and you’ve learned the “Christian way”. Then, Level 3 is the signs and wonders level where God moves mightily in you and through you.  You walk completely in faith every day.

We’ve all read the scriptures that say, “by His stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5) or “He came that we may have life and life more abundantly” (John 10:10). Well, why are many Christians battling sickness in their bodies? Why are there so many Christians who have financial struggles? We know that God’s Word says that these conditions are not our portion, so where’s the disconnect?

I won’t make any blanket conclusions, but could it be that some of us have yet to cross over into that 3rd level, thereby choosing to live beneath our promise and privilege?

The Call to Go Higher

For me, this was a big pill to swallow. I came a long way, I thought I was doing something. It’s like senior year in high school – you feel like the top dog and then you get to college and you’re back at the bottom of the totem pole.

So, I’m like okay God what are you saying to me, what do I have to do? God said,

“You’ve gone as far as you can go in your own human strength, and now it’s time to press in. Commit to fasting, there is a lot more I want to show you.”

Okay, Team, let me tell you how difficult this was for me to take in. I’m a single mom. My days are super long, I spend about 11 hours out of the house commuting and working. I have NO social life and my free time is spent doing housework and playing with my daughter.

I mean, can I just have some chocolate chip cookies and cold milk? A little pie here and there? Maybe a nice bowl of my favorite pasta. I totally self-soothe with good food. Not that I sit and stuff myself, but food is a comfort to me and God hit me where it would hurt because otherwise, it wouldn’t be a sacrifice.

I guarantee you that whatever you use to medicate yourself, that’s what God will tell you to give up in order to come in closer to Him.

Let’s Go All The Way

I am writing this from the midst of this journey. It’s so common to hear from people after they’ve overcome, but rarely do we hear from those who are overcome-ing.  I have not “arrived” and I do not have all the answers, but I am intentional about my relationship with the Lord and I refuse to go back!

I am excited to level up in God and I can’t wait to share my experiences as I fast and zealously seek God.

We love to hear stories of people who have reached extraordinary heights in life. We’re fascinated by their determination and their accomplishments, but what do we do with that inspiration? Why aren’t there more Bill Gates in the world, more Michael Jordans, etc.

Every human being was fearfully and wonderfully made by an amazing God. We all have purpose and destinies to fulfill, but we can’t get off at the corner of Mediocre and Comfortable – we have to take this to the end of the line. We have to press in, strip ourselves, and sacrifice our comforts in order to hear what God is saying and what He wants us to do. Let’s cross over into the supernatural life God ordained for us to have, Team.

SO, WHAT’S THE PLAY CALL?

1. Do a self-assessment and be honest with yourself – are you moving forward? If not, ask the Lord to show you what He wants to do in your life and to reveal any hinderances.
2. Be mindful of your relationship with God and don’t just settle for a religious regimen.
3. If you haven’t already, make fasting a part of your walk with God. It will bring you closer to Him and strengthen your spiritual hearing.
4. Stay tuned as I update you guys on how the Lord is preparing me for my fast (which began on Nov 1, 2017), and the good, bad and ugly things I’m going through during my journey to the supernatural – 3^rd level here I come!