Are Any Life Choices a One-Size-Fits-All?
A little more than four years ago, my husband and I separated due to sin in my husband’s life. What I soon found out was there was a lot in my own.
Over a four year period, Jesus caused us to fall and rise as Simeon predicted he would (Luke 2:34). I can sincerely say that I’m exceedingly grateful to God for every single day of that short eternity loaded with anguish, anger, tears, and frustration as he redefined Himself for both of us.
I’ve shared my sin in previous posts–I tried to play God in my life and in the lives of others. But in his incredible love and compassion, God gently moved me out of the way so he could do what he does so well–heal broken and damaged hearts.
More, proving that he can take even the worse of situations and turn them for his own good purposes (Romans 8:28-31), he inspired and helped me produce my novel The Chasm Crosser, the ensemble dramatic production “Table for Two”, another soon-to-be-released Bible study guide entitled Psalmmary, and countless blog posts, short stories, and poems. I also have a coterie of relationships that I would never have forged but in the heat of the the battle for my heart.
Recently, Russ—a changed man—returned home. And our mutual journey continues. I feel like we’ve both been given a “do-over”. It’s not easy. We both still have sinful natures that we have to fight moment to moment. But God is faithful.
Just prior to Russ’ restoration in our family, I spoke with our counselor about how I felt. This part of the journey was so uncharted and unfamiliar, I stated, “I don’t know where to put my feet.” I didn’t want to blow it and go back to my old ways.
This week, God again came through and showed me he’s “got this”. In Psalm 18:37, David—who had his own share of sins and struggles to tackle—said, “You have made wide steps beneath my feet so that I need never slip.”
Some know the specifics of our situation and rejoice with our reuniting. Unfortunately, there are others who are shocked and even appalled that I would chose to be reunited with my husband in light of his sin. I would simply encourage you to look at John 8:1-11. The parallels are uncanny.
Should everyone follow my lead expect such a reuniting? Of course not. Life is a not a one-size-fits-all. But intimacy with God is. We may not recognize it, but we all crave it. So if you’re just getting started in your divine friendship, read the Bible (especially the Psalms and the Gospels), listen to quiet voice of the Spirit, consider the advice of spiritually mature friends, and make your choices.
Did I say how important it was to get intimate with God? Only when we have an in-depth, personal, and profound relationship with God can we make the best decisions for our lives.
Life choices may be different for each of us, but intimacy with God really is a one-size fits all.
