"AH HA"

    “God gives us the vision, then He takes us down to the valley to batter us into the shape of the vision, and it is in the valley that so many of us faint and give way. Every vision will be made real if we have patience.”                 
                                                                                               Oswald Chambers


    “I can do all things in Christ who strengthens me” (Phil 4:13).

     There have been many times in my life when God has given me the vision: the ability to see the solution to a struggle I could not overcome. Along with this revelation, comes a great confidence in God and His willingness to help me overcome myself and my struggle. It is what we call an “ah ha” moment, when life’s problems seem to be surmountable. “Nothing will be impossible with God”   (Lk 1:37).

     At the time when the revelation is given, it seems so simple – so easy! Why hadn’t I thought of this myself? The next time the issue comes up, I’ll be prepared. I’ll know just what to do when I’m faced with my dilemma. It will no longer be an issue . . .. at least that’s what I think at that moment in time.

     Then another moment arrives: we get to face our particular situation. In other words, God takes us down, into the valley, to batter us into shape!

     We didn’t expect a struggle. We thought we had a plan. We forgot the strong emotions that come along with our situation. We have to get past our doubts and fears and trust in God and not ourselves. We have to take the next step and put God’s plan into practice. We have to be open and move to God’s grace and believe in His power; not our own. We need to be patient with ourselves and not expect perfection. We are in the valley with God. We are not alone. He will give us all we need to take the next step to overcome our fears. We must remember that we are on the long road of perfection: becoming the man or woman God has planned for us from all eternity. It is a long journey. We must not faint on the way. We must lean on God. He will give us the strength that we need to endure!

     God has an image of the saint He calls us to be. Along with the image, He showers us with all the graces we need to become this person. It is not easy, nor will it be reached without a lot of dying to our own will, and knowing, trusting and accepting His.

     We will have lessons taught and then situations with which to practice. There will be times when we will be victorious, and times when we will fail. Regardless of the outcome, there is a lesson to be gained. Look for it. Ask God to reveal it to you if it is not evident. Have patience. Pray for humility. Sanctity is not achieved overnight. It is usually a lifelong task, but is well worth every effort.

     Look at the lives of the saints. They encountered many hardships, difficulties and obstacles. They did not allow these situations to overcome them, but persevered and trusted in God. They allowed the circumstances in their lives to perfect them in both grace and virtue. They may not have always been successful, but they were faithful to what God had called them to do. They stayed in the valley and allowed God to form them into His image and likeness.

     Do the same. Let the vision that God has set before you become a reality in your life. Be patient. Cooperate with God and it will be made real!

    “Then the Lord answered me and said: Write down the vision clearly upon the tables, so that one can read it readily. For the vision still had its time, presses onto fulfillment, and will not disappoint; if it delays, wait for it, it will surely come, it will not be late” (Habakkuk 2: 2).