Walking with Him and not against Him is a far better life. This year has been an awakening of just how good God is. And, not because of the blessings He bestows upon us, but because of my relationship with Him. When you know Christ as Lord and Savior, meaning His character, hearing His voice speak directly into your life, and the power of who He is, it is so amazing. When you get serious and lay it all down for Him, you are truly set free and real life begins.

My life has never been as fulfilled as it is right now. You may ask ‘Why”. So glad you did. I have seen God unfold miracle after miracle. His revelations to me have produced in me a deeper desire to obey and live for the plans and purposes He has for my life. He shows Himself to me in ways that I cannot deny, nor doubt His faithfulness or the Truth found in the Word of God.

We think we are in control of our lives and doing what we want to do. Living this way may appear to be doing you good. You have fulfilled the American dream, or so you think until reality sets in. What happens when circumstances arise beyond your control or you suffer from poor choices or decisions, illness, divorce, broken relationships, or other calamities? If you’ve never allowed God to control your life what do you do? Do you become frantic, depressed, angry, fret, or worried? Been there, done that. This is why it is far better to walk with Him, know Him, and be in an intimate relationship with Him. Knowing Him is spending time with Him in prayer, reading, and meditating on His Word.

I’ve overcome many trials this year. When I use the word overcome I mean to prevail only by God’s grace. I’ve been in the valley. I’ve been through the fire. In all of this, God walked with me. He used the trials to perfect me and to make me usable for Him. It was difficult, but His presence sustained me. I realized what is important. Now, I have joy unspeakable. He is my Father and I am His child. I walk in obedience to my Father. He loves me. He protects me. He blesses me with His character as well as the plans and purposes He has for my life. I welcome it because I know it is His will, not mine. Surrendering to God, I find myself. It is no longer about me, but how I may be of use to others. It is no longer natural thinking, but spiritual thinking. To be spiritually minded there is an internal change from the heart that manifests outwardly in our characters. Bad or negative thinking ceases. I desire the things that Christ loves and are pleasing to Him. The materialism of the world fades away. I am not saying I am perfect, but when I mess up, I immediately am prompted by the Holy Spirit to confess it and change the wrong thought or behavior.

The blessings I have are prudence, knowledge, discretion, the fear of the Lord, humility, godly speech, wise counsel, understanding, guidance on life’s path, strength for the journey, and a life that is enriched by God. I enjoy the substance of life acted out in loving and praying for others. The burden placed on my heart is for all to have this fellowship, relationship, and oneness with Jesus Christ, Lord and Savior. I’ve chosen the choice for freedom and life no matter what the circumstances. What about you? Will you join me?

Sybil Clanton