We're breaking free! We're shaking off everything that's not in God's will. We're not dragging any dead weight into 2008... Are you ready for your fresh start? You're probably thinking, "Of course I'm ready! I've never been readier! Whoo-hoo! Bring on the new season, it's my birthday, it's my birthday..."
We're getting close to the new year and sure, it's quite easy to celebrate the idea of a new beginning, but before you get too gung ho there's some unpacking that has to take place first.
You've heard it over and over again, and I'm reiterating it today. With elevation comes separation; where you're going, everybody can't tag along...
Question... Is Your Luggage Over-Stuffed?
Have you ever been all set for your trip, but over-stuffed your luggage and couldn't close it? Or if you did get it closed, did you jam the zipper? I've done that before.
You just might want to rethink how much you're packing... especially if you plan on taking a flight. Know what happens when you try to carry too much stuff with you? Nowadays, most airlines charge extra for suitcases weighing more than
50lbs. Who wants to dole out more cash? Not me.
Similarly, in life, although you may not pay cold hard cash for lugging extra baggage around, believe me, it does come at a cost. Dead weight saps you of your peace, joy, vitality, and creativity. It bogs you down and hampers your mobility. You can't afford to haul superfluous things around.
You've got to make up your mind that, "If it costs me my destiny, the price is far too high."
So, are you ready to unpack some stuff? All right... you asked for it.
Now, don't fret when the Lord answers your request and begins helping you lighten your load. Don't panic when people who have been with you for years mysteriously drop out of your life. Don't assume the worst when long-time friends and acquaintances turn shady. It's okay. It's just a part of the unpacking process.
On the flip side, don't ask for it, if you're not prepared to make adjustments. For example, if you know you still want to hold onto that dead relationship, there's no sense asking God to deliver you. But if you're tired of being linked and tied to the wrong folks, tell God, "I'm ready now."
Once you've made up your mind, the separating will begin. As it stands now, your luggage just might be too heavy. Perhaps, you've got too much baggage you're trying to lug around. When there's too much dead weight attached to you, it slows you down.
Don't Get Stuck
Have you ever gotten stuck waiting to go to your destination only to be told that your departure time had been changed? What's worse is if you have a connecting flight that you end up missing as a result of the schedule change... this has happened to me before, and it is by no means fun!
I don't know about you, but I want to arrive at the place God has for me ON TIME. I don't want my flight to be pushed back. I don't want to be stuck in the wilderness waiting indefinitely. Do you?
I must be honest. Lightening your load isn't necessarily exciting. You'll be leaving some of your favorite people and things behind. Some individuals you thought would always be with you won't be able to make the trip. As painful as it may be, you can't circumvent the process of separation, at least not if you really want to soar to a new dimension.
Still, this is no cause to worry. On the contrary, rejoice! For every person that leaves you, God will fill that void. Whatever you have to give up, He will replenish many times over. Best of all, what you gain will be better than anything you ever had before.
Until next time... may you be empowered to prosper!
Dianna Hobbs
