Using God’s Phone Number
I had the privilege of being raised by parents of strong faith. From as early as I can remember, prayer and a relationship with God were a part of my life. I learned to talk to Him about everything. He was my confidant and guide. Recently, I wrote a thank-you note to my parents for this foundation, which has grounded me throughout my adulthood. I honestly do not know where I would be without my faith, but I guess that I would be lonely, anxious, and living without purpose.
In my early 30’s, I was going through a difficult divorce. In addition to the heartache, I was struggling with how to navigate all the legal and logistical aspects that the devastation of a divorce creates. I was overwhelmed and unsure I could handle things properly for both my children and me.
While commuting home from work one day, I was mulling things over in my head. Thoughts of failure and loss were consuming me. I wasn’t coming through this divorce with any financial gain. In fact, it would be financially damaging, and I was already feeling the impacts. At the time, we were living in my soon-to-be ex-husband’s hometown. His parents had both money and connections, so he was able to hire a prominent local lawyer. I hired what I could afford, which was limited. How would I stand up for myself and what I thought was best for my children? How would things be fair if I didn’t have the best representation money could buy? How could things possibly go in my favor? My mind was swirling with all the reasons that I had the disadvantage.
In a clear voice, I heard, “But you have me.”
Key Truths
In that moment, I was reminded of the key component of faith that has sheltered me from many storms: “But you have me.” I am not alone, although I felt small and isolated in the life situation that only I could navigate. I had my family and a support system, yet when I was going through a personal transformation, it was exactly that – personal. No one else had traversed my specific journey. Yes, others had similar experiences, but my journey was truly unique. So is yours.
You will begin your transformation alone, with the conviction that something must change. It is a decision, a choice really, that no one else can make for you. This can feel lonely, isolating. But you are not alone.
Perhaps the strength you need has been with you all along. In Isaiah 41:10, God says,
“Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”
If you are on a journey of transformation, I propose that the foundational component – or the first dimension of flight – is faith. With faith, you can remain calm and focused. It is an ever-present, knowing presence. Knowing, because He is the author of your life. He knows your fears, thoughts, and desires. He also knows what you are capable of even when you do not. When you feel weak and anxious, He can bring you strength and courage.
What I needed most was the strength that my faith provided. The strength in knowing there was someone by my side, throughout all the upheaval, a calm and knowing presence.
Call to Action
If you are embarking on a personal transformation, you will need the appropriate gear and energy for the journey. True transformation takes time; it can’t be hurried, and there are no shortcuts. If you were hiking, flying, or driving to your destination, you would ensure that you packed the necessities to sustain yourself along the way. Similarly, on the path of your transformation, I suggest you equip yourself with the essentials.
Proverbs 3: 5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.
How will you navigate this change? With faith as the foundation of your flight, you can be both grounded in courage and lifted with strength. To ensure you remain in faith throughout your journey, I suggest a daily habit of prayer or contemplation. Perhaps spending time in God’s word, with a Bible or a daily devotional (see some resources listed below), can be a good place to start.
You have many decisions to make and actions to take, but this quiet time in prayer and with God can fuel you each day as you face the challenges ahead.
Resources
Find a bible that you enjoy reading. It doesn’t have to be linear reading; it just needs to be reading. The wisdom found in the bible can provide encouragement and strength. My husband bought me the NLT THRIVE Devotional Bible for Women several years ago. It is a beautiful bible that includes daily devotional readings, a love letter (yes, a love letter!) from God, and a reflection from the author Sheri Rose. As the foreword to the bible, Sheri shares her personal story of transformation from a deep, dark hole of despair, including her addictions to food, drugs, and alcohol, to being rescued by God in her time of need. It is truly from this place of transformation that she created a bible that can support you through yours.
If you prefer digital resources, I have found The God Minute‘s daily 10-minute prayer reflections help start my day on the right path. You can download the app from the iOS or Google Play Store on your phone, or listen on their website. Nuggets of wisdom, strength, and encouragement are shared every day and will guide you along your journey.
Many types of daily devotionals can support you in your daily conversation with God and hone your ability to listen for His voice and guidance. Find one that meets you spiritually where you are today. During some dark days, when I struggled to pray, I reached for one Stormie Omartian’s books (bestselling author of The Power of a Praying series). She helped guide me back to the beauty of daily prayer.
Conclusion
Your journey, your transformation, is unique. Whether chosen or unchosen, you are here – on your way to a new version of yourself. Have faith and be strong, knowing you are not alone.
My sister shared a page out of her daily devotional, Mornings with Jesus, a few months ago. The daily reading reflected on Jeremiah 33:3, which she knew would speak to me. I had been seeing angel number 333 everywhere during a certain life transition (more on that in another post), so she wanted to share the message with me. The author, Gwen Ford Faulkenberry, had attended a youth group as a kid, and the youth director dubbed Jeremiah 33:3 “God’s phone number.” Use it.
