Continue To Arise
Well . . . Arise is one for the history books and I must say . . . what a beautiful book it is! For everyone of you who were able to attend it was truly my honor to share such an amazing moment together. Shared vision always accomplishes shared purpose, leading us into beautiful opportunities of service for our communities . . . POWERFUL! Those who weren’t able to join us, we missed you and you can check it all out on the Arise Women’s Facebook Page.
That “ENOUGH ALREADY” message was birthed out of my personal journey that lead me to a quiet place where I sat with Him and drank deep from a wellspring that refreshed my very soul. It is at this place that I learned to unclench my fists and trust the grace found in complete powerlessness. I must say, His presence never disappoints. I’ve always left with plenty for me and some to share with others (lagniappe)!
This study on identity could go on and on as it feels like the never ending search . . . a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. However several of you asked about the illustration of being found in Christ so I must share, 2 Corinthians 5:17 as It reminds us that everyone who is “IN” Christ is a new creation! Old things are passed away as He makes ALL things new.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJ
To be in Christ is a place, it’s positional, it NEVER changes! My reality has always changed and continues to be ever changing . . . I hate change! However, the place I choose to stand is unshakable!
Friends, I shared with you all the things I searched for identity through and the one common denominator was that they were all associated with a person or people. I must add that EVERY time I attached a name (even a wonderful name) in this search for my identity it’s as though my dependence lead to a weighty expectation that I could never, ever meet . . . a slavery of sorts.
Today, my vantage point is much different, much clearer as I can now say that making the choice to be IN Christ has brought me to a place of incredible freedom. This place is absolutely BEAUTIFUL to me!
I’ve learned through some really scary moments that God holds me safely . . . whatever happens! Because I’m in HIM and cared for by HIM, I don’t have to fear anything or anyone because I AM NOT ALONE!
I pray that ARISE was just the beginning for you and that as we continue this journey together we gain greater understanding of what it means to find ourselves IN HIM.