Counterfeit Comfort
“Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).
When the pressures of life become overwhelming, or we get just plain tired, we often find ourselves turning to donuts, Netflix, chocolate cake, nachos, shopping, wine, or whatever our “counterfeit” might be in search of relief, release and peace. These choices aren’t necessarily bad, but the satisfaction is merely temporary. Before we know it, we can find ourselves in bad habits and even destructive behaviors. But God, knowing us so well, has a simple solution for us when we need comfort…
Slowing down and getting quiet is the beginning of getting to know God. Knowing the Holy Spirit intimately is the foundation for true comfort, for He is our comforter.
When we are in private sessions with people, we often lead the person we are with to go to their “Heart Zone” and describe the most beautiful place of comfort they can imagine. Each person has a unique description of their ideal surroundings, but inviting Jesus into our heart means visualizing moments together, and embracing the adventurous journey of being still and knowing that He is God.
Bob and I often talk about the statement: Beware of the Barrenness of Busyness. Distractions and tasks of everyday life have the potential to be detriments to our life with Jesus. No matter how fast you run, you are still right there. You cannot out run yourself. Eventually you have to stop, be still and face your heart. Identifying where you are makes it possible to navigate the path to where you want to God.
Proverbs 2 in the passion translation says, “So train your heart to listen when I speak and open your spirit wide to expand your discernment – then pass it on to your sons and daughters”. The ultimate comfort is found when we are still in in His presence and we train our heart to listen to His voice.
Today is my day to be satisfied in God’s presence. Instead of running frantically, I stop and experience the comfort of the Holy Spirit in my secret place. I am willing to be brave and courageous and get off the treadmill of busyness. I search out and seek the Lord, knowing that I am strengthened through trials, and His joy is my fuel.
May the sweet comfort of the Lord draw you into His presence…
Love in Jesus,
Audrey