My confidence in the Lord and in His favor on my life has been shaken recently. Things began materializing in my life that seemed to be answers to prayer. Dream job opportunities. Financial provisions. Relationship opportunities. Health and wellness. All seemed to be coming my way.

Then the job was put on hold, the money was tied up, the relationships became stale, and the anxiety and exhaustion returned. To be honest, I was angry and frustrated. At a loss for how Jesus could be delighting in me while withholding so much. I began losing faith in the steadiness and goodness of His love. I wouldn’t admit it, but my affections toward him spoke clearly, I was convinced he was withholding His favor until I made myself worthy of it.

In the midst of this struggle, I was reminded in scripture of how uniquely we are loved and led by Jesus. His yoke is easy and His burden is light. He never moves without purpose. He never speaks without intention. He never overlooks an opportunity to lead us into more. He is too intentional to rob us of an opportunity to discover and grow into who He made us to be. He does not withhold or release favor at random.

What I had been perceiving as a lack of favor, was actually an invitation to be transformed into one who can shoulder what He has called me to. When I wallowed in my unfavorable circumstances, I was failing to accept the hand I so desperately asked Him to extend. Remember, Jesus does not offer temporary solutions, he offers eternal renewal.

If you are struggling, take a moment this week and ask Jesus, not just to end your struggle, but to reveal the work of renewal He is doing in your heart and in your life. His yoke is easy and his burden is light, He will partner with you and you will not be left to overcome alone. I hope this encourages your ragged soul like it has mine.

-Matty

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” -Matthew 11:28-30