Sometimes we feel alone not because we need to be with others but because God wants to be with us. Our lives are busy–especially when we’re pursuing a dream–and God may want to pull us aside for a bit.
{You’re Made for a God-sized Dream, Chapter Six}.
The most important part of any God-sized dream is the Giver of it. Set aside a particular time this week to be with Him–to pray, journal, take a walk or simply sit quietly and listen.
I don’t do alone well.
Nor, still.
That is not something I’m proud of; it’s simply a fact.
I feel most energized, physically, when I’m out running around, doing things, surrounded by people.
But this season? Has been very different.
Lonely would be the word I would use to describe it.
Not so much the kind where I am never around people; more, the kind where I’m struggling with things I’m not able to process with those around me…
…thoughts of feeling like my broken past defines my future. ..
…and that it means I can’t be somebody because of where I came from.
Time alone with Him was long overdue.
So, in some ways, taking a set time to be with God was a good assignment for me this week; in other ways, I was dreading it.
And my time with Him didn’t come in a way I would have planned it, but instead in the form of an exhausted, emotional, late-Sunday-night drive. The kind where, the tears were so thick and blinding, I probably shouldn’t have been behind the wheel.
But I needed to be with Him…in a place where I was sure it was just Him and me.
And maybe it’s where I found honesty and where He spoke…or, maybe, I listened.
I cried out to Him, literally, and somewhere near the McDonald’s on 25, He answered with this.
I’m Tired I’m worn…my heart is heavy
From the work it takes to keep on breathing
I’ve made mistakes, I’ve let my hope fail
My soul feels crushed by the weight of this world
And I know that you can give me rest
So I cry out with all that I have left
I think that maybe…
Maybe…
On this journey to a dream, He is teaching me what it is I truly long for.
Let me see redemption win, let me know the struggle ends
That you can mend a heart that’s frail and torn
I wanna know a song can rise from the ashes of a broken life
And all that’s dead inside can be reborn,
Cause I’m worn
True, I dream of writing a book. The initial words are on the paper. I’m (slowly) tweaking, starting to research book proposals…moving forward. I’m excited about it.
But I think I dream of more…the kind that makes a difference, does something positive.
The kind of more that reflects His love, demonstrates His grace, screams of His redemption.
I want to know that He can take someone who is so broken and still use her for His good.
That’s what I dream of.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28 (NIV)
It’s Tuesday, and my dreaming sisters and I are linking up at our friend, Holley’s place. We’d love for you to join us!
He already is using you for good…and I am blessed by you!
Thank you, sweet friend!
There are so many wonderful promises that God has for you: Here are just a few that I pray will bring joy and wonder to you.
“The good things I have planned for you are too many to count.” Ps 40:5
“I will restore and refresh your weary soul” Ps 23:3
“My plan for your future is filled with hope.” Jer. 29:11
There are tons more but I pray these will lift you up and speak to your heart. Blessing sister-dreamer!
Thank you, Maggie, for your sweet encouragement. I love the Psalm 40 one…I’m not sure I’ve read it in that version before. Love it.
Blessings back at you, sister-dreamer!
Oh sweet friend, He is using you for good! You have been such a blessing to be these past few months. He has spoken hope, love and encouragement into my soul through YOU!
Oh, it’s been awhile since I’ve had a good long car ride where I let the tears fall! But those rides are oh, so healing! And He always seems to know just what our heart needs to hear!! I’m glad He encouraged you with this song. I’m glad you spent this time with Him.
Whispering up prayers for you!
Oh, friend…thank you for the encouragement, the sweet words, and your prayers. You are such a blessing to my heart, especially today. And it made me smile to know I’m not the only one who thinks those car drives are healing. 😉 (((hugs)))
He IS using you for good. And I totally get the challenge of not slowing down alone as often as my soul probably needs. Enjoy your day, friend!
Thank you, friend! Blessings!
This was so beautiful. Truly blessed by you and the way God used you through words. The picture used as the background in the video is one of my favorite and took me back to places of old…places where there was healing needed. Praying for you. With Joy, Carey
Thank you for your sweet words and prayers, Carey. I’m so blessed by this team of dreaming sisters…you fill my life with so many blessings and so much encouragement!
Mel, you have demonstrated His grace to me with every comment we’ve exchanged! I always look forward to what you have to say because of your kind, tender heart. That is not true of everyone. Your life is worship, girl. You’re reflecting Him. He’s using you;) (((hugs))) I pray that He continues to unveil the ways in which His redemption will speak to others through you.
*blush* 😉 So blessed by you, my sweet friend…thank you for your kind words, encouragement, and the way you speak truth into my life. (((hugs back)))
Simply awesome post! I encourage you to keep spending still, alone time with God. I know it will pay off. I was driving and listening to this song, and it has meaning for me and maybe for you too. Matthew West’s “Hello My Name is” Check it out here: http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=0J10J1NU
Sending you smiles and hugs!
Holly
Thank you, friend! I’ve never heard that song before tonight…I really love the line, “I’m no longer defined by all the wreckage behind…” I know this is something my Father wants me to believe and live…and I need to make that choice. Thank you for sharing! Smiles and hugs to you, too. Thank you for the blessing you are in my life!
Mel – I know from reading the other sisters comments that you have been used in a might way. However even if no one else commented I have to tell you how you have blessed me personally. You have continually lifted my spirits and encouraged me with each and every comment you leave or tweet you send. Thank you friend.
Aren’t those quiet car rides when the tear flow freely so freeing ? I actually had one myself last Friday evening.
You are so welcome.
And, thank YOU for your sweet encouragement, Amy. I feel the same way…I’m so thankful for you and this community and the ways we can bless and encourage each other. And yep…those drives in the car while the tears spill…so freeing and healing, even if they hurt at the time. 
Blessings, sweet friend!
Mel,
I am so glad we are able to share these dreams together. I too am writing a book – 2 in fact – and in the beginning of really starting the first one a year and a half ago …I felt a mixture of feelings. But knowing as you do that He will use us where He puts us… it keeps me going.
Bless you and you bless others. God carry you high on His wings as you touch hearts!
-Heather
Thank you for your sweet words, Heather. They blessed my heart and were exactly what I needed tonight. Blessings to you, too, friend…and I can’t wait to read your books!