Confidence and Clarity July 15, 2011

            I think one of the biggest lies Christians can face is that confidence and clarity are contingent—you get one, you get the other, you have both or neither. Personally, my circumstances the last month and week have shown me that confidence is clarity—confidence in Christ’s promises and character (his goodness, sovereignty, and providence) are the things that bring clarity—not having a certainty about our circumstances. When we approach each day that way—there is clarity in the midst of chaotic circumstances. When we call upon him and his promises we see his provision. This frees us to trust him—to step out of our comfort zones because we more clearly see Him. Falling on our faces in honest humility, crying out that “I can’t see two feet in front of me, but I know you provide, you are good, those who trust you lack no good thing (Psalm 34)” brings the clarity as we turn our focus from the uncertain circumstances to our certain Christ.

            I am so thankful for this week in Minneapolis. The provision has been so humbling and encouraging, often coming “at the last minute”, after I’ve exhausted my fleshly cycle of “freak out, panic, then prayer”. Through each meeting I was encouraged, blessed, and called out—to continue to step out of my comfort into the plan God has for me—known to eternity but revealed daily. Additionally, the girls I have stayed with have been such an example of grace and giving—true depictions of the body of Christ. I know I needed this trip to grow, to be out of my comfort zone—driving a large car, in an unknown city, to meet with people I had never met, to help me learn that confidence in Christ is the clarity I need. This is true in all things—from relationships to careers—each of which I found clarity as I entrusted them to Christ this week.

            As I prepare to fly home tonight, I am praying these lessons take root—that I continue to have my confidence rooted in Christ, not in grasping for certainty and clarity through my circumstances. I am so thankful fur the tangible reminder this week has been to the provision and certainty of Christ.