“1. To reserve for a specific use.
2. To make noticeable: character traits that set her apart. (http://www.thefreedictionary.com/set+apart)”
I grew up, pretty much, as an only child. Save for
my brother who is 12.5 years older and whose interest would obviously be much different
than mine because of age and gender. Hence, in some cases, I would consider
myself an "only child".
To top things off, though I have had friends
throughout my lifetime- finding the right circle or attempting to fit
into a particular circle, proved challenging and often led to me departing and
becoming the lone party to my crowd. To this day, I still consider myself a "lone
ranger" (lol), and have embraced it so much because of the understanding
and appreciation as to what it all means.
Long before I became saved, My Father had determined
that I was and am different and I had no choice but to accept it. Of course I
wondered whether I had a problem because it seemed like nothing worked for me.
I admit, it was painful at times, feeling shunned especially by those to whom I
(allegedly) created no offense. I would sometimes hear of the insults and it
would have to take will and determination to move on pass the hurt and let go.
(Till now, I am learning to let go before offense takes root). But the
questions kept pouring in:
1.
Why did others seem to fit easily into groups, but I
didn't?
2.
Why did others seem to have (so-called) long lasting
spousal relationships, but I didn't?
3.
Am I not "pretty" enough for them to at
least acknowledge me?
4.
What am I doing wrong?
5.
Am I not worthy of their companionship?
6.
When will I know my rightful place?
A further introspective reminded me of David's
proclamation in Psalm 139:16 (KJV):
"Your eyes saw my unformed substance;
In your book were written, every one of them,
the days that were formed for me, when as yet
there was none of them."
You see there is a particular plan and path that my
life is supposed to take, but I didn’t entirely understand it- and still don’t
sometimes. But drawing from the love relationship that God has called me (and
you to), there must be certain characteristics present for that relationship to
flourish and for your representation as a CHRISTIAN to be validated. Some of which
comes from being SET APART.
Just by being SET APART I have drawn/ learned some
valuable conclusions, which would NOT have been possible without God opening my
eyes, mind and spirit, including these subsequently listed:
a.
Discovering My True IDENTITY in Christ
b.
Receiving God’s Best Takes Time (and Patience)
c.
Always Remain Humble- You never know who you may
meet in this life and who God may use to transform your life. Never let the notion
get to your head that “I’m too rich to mingle with the poor;” “I’m too cute to have
ugly friends;” “I’m too saved to talk to a criminal” and so forth.
d.
Complete Trust In God- even when friends and family
disappoint, God NEVER disappoints. His plans for my life are way above my
comprehension, so when I opt to trust His plans and abandon my selfish ones- I save
myself plenty of heart and headache.
e.
100% Surrender to God’s Will- directly relative to
the above point.
f.
The Abundance & Extent of God’s Love and Support
g.
We serve a Just In Time God- when I think no one is
listening nor understands my plight- God is and does. And when I just about
think I’ve had it and are getting ready to “throw in the towel”, He sends me a
love note to keep me going. He is simply amazing.
Would any of these lessons be learnt had I not been
through what I had been through? No. So instead I choose to embrace these SET
APART moments, especially when it allows me to build my relationship with my
Beloved and bask in His love laced glory.
Having shared my story, I hope you are motivated to
endure your operating procedure. I know I have (and still am). Child of God, my
prayer is that you embrace your process.
You are blessed!
No comments:
Post a Comment