A couple of weeks ago, I shared a vulnerable and life-changing moment with you. A miraculous God-encounter disguised as our usual weekly visit to church. (If you missed that devo, you can read it here.)

You see, at the time I thought my weariness came as a result of troubles my family was going through. I didn’t think I’d be happy again until we got past our problems.

Everyone has a mountain to climb now and then, and I hoped we could just hold on until we made it to the other side. I wanted a downward slope where I could breathe and enjoy the view for a while. But God knew I needed more than to hold on and get through it. I sensed the need to search my heart and allow God to “renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10)

I faced a convicting truth that defining day at church. God gave me a choice. I could continue to live with doubt, worry, and weariness, or I could find freedom. I said I trusted Him to provide for my needs and protect my family. But did I depend on Him enough to actually receive joy in the midst of my problems?

Find Freedom Through Your Dependence on God.

Once I renewed my commitment to give these burdens back to God, something amazing happened.

I didn’t walk out of church that day with a resolution or changed circumstances. The problem didn’t go away, but I’m totally okay with that, because I left with something even better. I left with a renewed freedom in Jesus Christ that brought a bounce back to my step I’d forgotten I had. I found joy in letting God be God.

Finding Joy in Letting God Be God

When we find ourselves stuck in a hopeless place, our loving Father tells us there’s so much more to this abundant life He offers. If we wait for life to calm down before enjoying our dependence on God, we will miss out on the unspeakable joy He created just for us.

It is possible to enjoy life, even when we’re facing one battle after another. In the middle of our struggles, we have joy through His presence. Even when problems persist, God gives us reason to rejoice. Let’s reclaim the peace and rest God gave us, so that we can enjoy freedom as we trust in Him.

I’ve created a special resource just for you— my community here in this online home. It came out of a difficult time, one where I realized how deeply I needed a right-now promise from God for my current season. It’s called 100 of God’s Promises for Your Unraveled Heart.

Enter your email below and I’ll send you a link to download the printable list.