When God Speaks to Us Through Others

I believe God speaks to us through others. This is especially true during times of great difficulty. The Lord has a way of reminding us that our impact outreaches the chaos surrounding us.

A friend asked for insight on a serious situation today. Also, as I was getting on the elevator at work, one of our guests thanked me for being genuine and transparent in my interactions with her and other guests. Another friend encouraged me with his observations that I’m good at helping people weed their spiritual gardens.

These conversations came at just the right time. I’ve been struggling—frustrated and discouraged—more than I’ve been cheerful and grateful. Why? The reasons are many. At least they seem to be ample in supply.

Yet, the Lord continues His work through me.

He uses me to help clear space for truth, clarity, and connection to Himself. God uses me to point people to Him. Even when I’m feeling less than and as I’m seemingly always putting out fires. Only God can do that; I’m certainly not able.

Being vulnerable can be scary, but it’s also transformative because it encourages others to be transparent as well. In a world where superficial interactions are common, the willingness to be transparent helps others connect more authentically. This is a good thing. And again, only something God can do.

Helping others intentionally prune and nurture their spiritual gardens by removing that which no longer serves their spiritual life so that growth can occur demands trust. Trust takes time to build.

I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.

John 15:1-2 (NIV)

I’m a practicing gardener. I’m not good at it. But I am willing to learn and to try new things. So far I’m good at growing elephant ears and one rose bush. The elephant ears don’t take much apart from planting and watering. The rose bush calls for a little more attention and effort. It requires culling and pruning. Both rely more on God to survive than they do me. He is the nurturer. I’m simply a vessel.

I am passionate about helping people thrive and flourish through a deeper relationship with Jesus.

Tonight, I’m grateful for God’s encouragement through the voices of others.

God is good. All the time. 

No matter what.

Know you are loved.

Praying for you. Praying for America.

Rainer Bantau —The Devotional Guy™

#JesusStrong