SO THAT?
So that
Six letters that make a difference
Have you ever had a word or phrase that God has laid on your heart and you knew you needed to pay attention?
It began with reading the story of Jesus healing the man born blind.
As He went along, He saw a man blind from birth.
John 9:1
The disciples asked Him, who sinned this man or his parents. Jesus responded in verse 3,
Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened SO THAT the work of God might be displayed in his life.
In reading that story, I began to see that some of my all time favorite verses contain those six letters.
I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
And another one for good measure:
But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
2 Corinthians 12:9
I am so busy looking for liberation that I totally miss the transformation.
In the story of the blind man, Jesus wasn't interested in teaching the why so that pain could be avoided, He was focused on glorifying God.
Our lives are filled with anguishing moments/seasons that are orchestrated to glorify God and lead to necessary changes in our hearts.
I am always looking for ways out of these unpleasant situations, so laser focused on finding a solution, that I miss the transformation.
And transformation is where true freedom is found!
opens in new tab)Growing up in a close-knit family(opens in new tab) I have always known the sweetest kind of love. Imagine my surprise when I realized I'm not everyone's cup of tea.
I am learning that desiring people's approval can be an idol and that my joy, my peace cannot fluctuate with human words or actions.
Difficult people have been placed in my life, SO THAT, I would not think myself a princess, but rather a daughter of the Most High. See the plot twist? In both instances I am valued, princess is for my glory; daughter of the Most High is for God’s glory.
Transformation: I only need my Heavenly Father's approval => FREEDOM from other's thought and actions
As trivial as seeking acceptance from others may seem, this has been a gut wrenching path for this Golden Retriever kind of heart. But, oh how grateful I am to perceive an even more precious love, an everlasting love. One that never ends. A love that abounds in grace and mercy . . .
Friend, I don't know what pain you are experiencing; the words hard-pressed, perplexed, persecuted, struck down (2 Corinthians 4:8-9) resonate in so many of our souls.
All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.
2 Corinthians 4:15
In your current overwhelm, the words "for your benefit" may sting. I understand. God understands. Bring your angry and bitter tears to the throne of grace so that you may receive mercy and find grace to help you in your time of need. Hebrews 4:16(opens in new tab)
Abba is waiting - arms open, overflowing with the most perfect love.
So that – six letters that transforms for His glory ~
Blogger's Note: I will not be posting on social media. If these words in any way have touched your heart, please share with a friend.
Oh Michele…..what a blessing. You say so much using just a few words. I feel convicted and inspired to apply “so that” to many situations I am facing.