“Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way.” Psalm 139:23-24
Have you ever heard of the “arm chair quarter back?” This is the person who’s certain that he or she can make better decisions than the coaches or players while watching a competitive sport on television. The arm chair quarter back has all the answers for the winning victory right there in the comfort of his own home.
How often do we as Christian women do the same thing. We look around at others and fully convince ourselves that we are not the problem. We find it almost second nature to pick out the flaws and failures of those we know so well, as the little voice in our head say’s, “I would be a better person, or my circumstances would look differently, if only they would be what God wants them to be.”
I love this challenge by Erin Davis.
“Sometimes we’re tempted to point fingers of blame (or shame) at the people around us or even the leaders above us. “If only they were more godly, prayerful, visionary, humble, holy, etc., then of course our world could change for the better!”
“If only our political leaders would fear the Lord.”
“If only my pastor would lead more effectively.”
“If only my husband would get his act together.”
“If only my kids were easier to handle.”
“These people probably do need God to work in their lives. But you do, too. What if the transformational work we’re praying for needs to begin in you and me?”
Do you remember the children of Israel? God chose Moses one of the godliest men who ever lived, to lead His people out of the slavery, misery and bondage of Egypt. This leader obeyed God at every turn, interceded relentless on behalf of the people and committed himself to lead a nation into the long awaited Promised Land. But, it wasn’t long before God’s chosen people began to complain about Moses, complain about their circumstances and ultimately convince themselves that they were not the problem.
Ladies, let’s make a fresh commitment to allow God to do His work in us. Let’s dare to pray the prayer of the Psalmist for God to search our hearts and let Him have His way in us.
I truly believe if we are willing to do this and stop telling ourselves, “I’m not the problem” God will not only answer that prayer but the change we so desire will unfold in each of our lives.