whatever

This week, two things have really stood out to me: an image and a song. They're different, but both are driving home a piece of truth in me.

The picture is one that Rachel Brazell posted on facebook earlier this week of one of the phrases Jimmy wrote on his bed post. It's powerful, a clear demonstration our humanly self-centered ways that only Jesus can change.

That image and phrase struck me, causing me to really think about what I "expect" from God. Do I worship Him because it makes me feel good? Will I still devote my time to knowing Him if I don't "feel" anything in return? Am I asking Him to fulfill my desires, or am I asking Him to replace my desires? Do I do things for God when I like them, or will I do whatever?

The song that impacted me is called "Whatever," by Steven Curtis Chapman. It also emphasized the truth of the fact that this life is not about my own wants, it's about God's great plan. Look up the song and listen to it, or just read the lyrics carefully. They are powerful.

I made a list, wrote down from A to Z
All the ways I thought that You could best use me
Told all my strengths and my abilities

I formed a plan it seemed to make good sense
I laid it out for You so sure You'd be convinced
I made my case, presented my defense

But then I read the letter that You sent me
It said that all You really want from me is just

Whatever, whatever You say
Whatever, I will obey
Whatever, Lord, have Your way
'Cause You are my God, whatever

So strike a match, set fire to the list
Of all my good intentions, all my preconceived ideas
I want to do Your will no matter what it is
Give me faith to follow where You lead me
Oh, Lord, give me the courage and the strength to do ...

Whatever, whatever You say
Whatever, I will obey
Whatever, Lord, have Your way
'Cause You are my God, whatever
I am not my own
I am Yours and Yours alone
You have bought me with Your blood
Lord, to You and You alone do I belong
And so whatever

With many decisions to be made, many different paths to choose from, I'm realizing that it's important to let God make the call. He's given me strengths in certain areas and weaknesses in others, but He didn't intend for me to take those and run. He already has a plan, and it might not be anything I was ever planning to do. I just need the strength to say, God, I'll do whatever.

In your life, there are probably also many decisions being made. Maybe it's college. Maybe it's a career. Maybe it's a relationship. Consider that God's plan may be different than what makes sense to us, He may be asking us for a step of faith that doesn't make "sense" in our world. We'll only know if we decide to listen for His voice, and commit to doing whatever.

Whatever. It's a big risk. A big chance. But I know there is no one better on whom to stake my life.