Pick up the Hammer and shut up….please.

There was a time when I thought I could orchestrate a better life. I believed if I did the right things, said what was taught to me, and modified my behavior God would bless my life.

I saw rules as a safety net. If I lived my life inside the lines drawn for me by society, my culture and the church, I deserved a good life. What I’ve learned is this is a big lie.

I am a servant not the contractor on this building project called “Rick Dancer’s Remodel.” I don’t have access to the blueprints nor do I need them. Every time I try to add a new room or put in a window so I can see out better, I end up remodeling the remodel.

I’ve learned that it’s not my job to orchestrate a better life it’s my job to live the life that God is giving me. It’s not my job to wrestle with God, but to wrestle with my issues before God. God is not my “Fairy God Father”. I didn’t get this job because I’m the most qualified or because I deserve it by being so good. I am a servant, chosen by the foreman, to swing a hammer and do what He wants. Often times those around me will offer advice as if they’ve seen the blueprint. There is only one foreman and I have access to Him anytime I need it.

There is something so free about choosing to be a bondservant rather than trying to take control. I used to long to see the finished project but now realize completion is not the goal.

I will continue to wrestle with the fact that I don’t get to know a lot of things. I will continue to smile when I hear people tell me the plans (God) they have for their lives. I do believe God gives us hints as to the next step but usually the plane ticket He hands me has no destination listed and no return trip planned.