Okay, I admit it.
Lately I've been feeling a little Debbie Downer-ish about fundraising.
But I just started reading a book called "Radical" by David Platt, which talks about the fact that what Jesus taught and how He lived is completely different than the American dream we all seem to cling to. A chapter I read the other night almost brought me to tears:
The question for us, then is whether we trust in his power. And the problem for us is that in our culture we are tempted at every turn to trust in our own power instead. So the challenge for us is to live in such a way that we are radically dependent on and desperate for the power that only God can provide…
In direct contradiction to the American dream, God actually delights in exalting our inability. He intentionally puts his people in situations where they come face to face with their need for him. In the process he powerfully demonstrates his ability to provide everything his people need in ways they could have never mustered up or imagined. And in the end, he makes much of his own name.
Man, it's hard to rely on God – I mean, totally and completely rely on Him. It really is a day by day, second by second, surrendering of our burden to Him. I'll say, "Okay, God, this fundraising thing is all You – I'll get the word out, I'll talk to churches, people, but ultimately, I know You will provide what I need," and then two seconds later, I will be back to worrying, stressing and griping – feeling berated by the world and the impossible.
"Just lay it down at His feet." We've heard it before, right? But it seems that as soon as I lay it down, I find myself picking it right back up again.
But I will keep going to Him. I will keep laying it down at His feet. And after I pick it up, I will bring it back to Him again.
Well, I know what's right
I got just one life
In a world that keeps on pushing me around
Gonna stand my ground
And I won't back down
