Life is all about choices. Everyday when we get out of bed we are presented with a set of options and prompted to make a choice. These days my choices are mostly centered on breakfast: cereal or oatmeal? shoes: chacos or flip flops? you get the idea. Then come the more crucial choices that affect my attitude: joy or sorrow?
The homeless people of Penang have taught me a multitude of things in their own peculiar way. Each morning they are served bread that has been donated from the local bakery. This is the bread that was not sold in its prime so its always a variety of loaves and yummy delights.
As the doors open and the people begin to storm in, they eagerly scan the options of bread slices so they can get the best piece. The first time around their desperation for food takes over and they typically grab the closest one they can reach. When the clock strikes 10:30, all of the leftover slices become fair game for seconds.
As each person comes back for more, they bring with them expectations of their favorite piece of bread being available. If the certain type they want is no longer there, they frown, turn up their nose and take the next best thing, some even walk away frustrated and empty handed.
My natural reaction to this behavior was shock and judgement.
“you are hungry, it is free bread. Why would you not accept what is being offered?! Thats absurd!!”
[Enter The Voice of GOD]
I am constantly coming to the Lord with expectations of what He has to offer. I want to live out his plans for my life, but only the ones with raisins and cranberries. I want to be filled with the Holy Spirt, but only if it comes with a cinnamon glaze. I want to be a missionary, but only if its glamorous and an awe-inspiring experience.
Everyday we are given the opportunity to choose to follow God with everything we have, or only follow the parts of his plan that taste sweet and satisfy our flesh.
Even those hearts that have yet to surrender to Christ, they hesitate to accept what is free and life giving because it may not be as instantly gratifying as the things of this world.
My God is a sovereign God. He knows exactly what I need and He is going to provide it for me, however It may not be what I want, when I want it.
I beg for the Lord’s will to prevail in my life, but am I choosing to truly follow every path He places before me? Even when it seems rough and uncomfortable?
How desperate are you for God?
So desperate that you will accept the Beautiful Love he is freely offering?
Or only the slices of His love that seem appealing and make your mouth water?
Are you walking away from God in frustration unwilling to accept His plan for you because it is not exactly what you want?
I guess beggars Can be choosers.
