All of my life I have lived with hopes and dreams of better, higher, more impressive position. It starts from a young age for most of us, I think.
“When I grow up…”
An innocent phrase, full of creative promise and wishful dreaming. When I was young I remember trying to imagine what I would do as an adult—with all of the free time that comes from being out of school. (Hah!)
I would make, and re-make my lists of position: when I grew up, I would be a teacher, a librarian, and probably a life-guard. If that wasn’t quite fulfilling enough, I would write in my downtime and (obviously) become a famous author. And, if I needed a little extra income I was certain I could manage to pull a shifts working in a McDonald’s too (think of all the fries, yum!)
As an adult, I can now confidently look back on those plans and laugh, recognizing that my capacity is much more limited than little-me would have hoped.
But isn’t that the truth for us all? We are finite humans, limited in time, space, age, wealth… and position. Yet, even in those limits there is something undeniably beautiful and freeing (if we let it be) about not having to be everything for everyone all at once.
I no longer feel like I need to use all of my gifts and hobbies and talents to prove myself. I do not need to be everything and do it all.
But even as a child, position—wealth, fame, an outstanding ability to do it all—drove me. What a relief that Jesus simply calls us to him, to submit ourselves and our position in life to him who guides it all. His promise is worth so much more than our position—that we are beloved children who are known and loved regardless of our position, wealth, or ability.
READ
Ecclesiastes 4:13-16
REFLECT
What are my human limits when it comes to pursuing position?
How has the pursuit of position taken the place of God in my life?
What meaning have I been deriving from position?
RESPOND
As you say aloud these confessions, invite the Holy Spirit to reveal barriers to surrender.
I confess that I am human and that I have limits.
I confess the ways that I have been chasing after a vapour.
I confess that you are God and I am not.
FAST
As a way of living into your confessions, consider fasting from taking credit for things you accomplish. Fast from image management this week, whether in real life or on social media.
RECEIVE
Read Ecclesiastes 3:11-13.
Psalm 23 tells us that God prepares a table before us in the presence of our enemies, even death itself. He gives good gifts to his children.
Ask the Spirit to reveal what God wants to set your Table with.