Resolute To Overcome!

 

Often God uses ordinary things to encourage and inspire us. Years ago, I experienced a seemingly insignificant moment that has stuck with me ever since.

One morning, as I was driving over a bridge and past the docks in a Seattle area inlet, one of the large boats caught my eye. It was of average color, and no more amply endowed with equipment as the other fishing and crabbing vessels nearby. What drew my attention was its name, cleanly and boldly displayed in a strong Times New Roman or similar typeface on one end of the ship: RESOLUTE.

The ship’s moniker could have been chosen to make clear the stalwart determination of the captain and the tenacity of the crew in overcoming squalls and angry waves to fill the holding tanks, surviving season after season of sleep deprivation and aching muscles. Providing food for the masses while making enough profit so that the sacrifices are worth it. Or perhaps the name was a reminder of victory over a personal challenge, and to sail onward in hope and strength through whatever comes, knowing after making it through that, they can survive just about anything.

What It Means To Me
Resolute to me is simply another way of saying that one is committed, sure, purposeful, steady, persistent, immovable, “all-in”, faithful, often with a steely determination, and usually related to a belief or decision. Holding on and not wavering from one’s prescribed path. Never giving up.

To say someone is resolute carries with it a deep element of courage and strength. At its best, being resolute means holding true to my belief or decision, remaining undeterred even in the face of great obstacles. At its worst, it is stubborn and unyielding. Knowing when and if to quit trying, pursuing, and so forth isn’t always easy. Also, unfortunately, we can be resolute for the wrong reason, or hurt others by not speaking the truth in love.

Being resolute looks different for everyone, and varies according to circumstances. It can be quietly steadfast, stoic, even gritting our teeth against unimaginable pain. In competition, it is bursting with excitement, every muscle poised to carry out the strategy, determined to conquer or win. It can be light and hopeful, reaching for goals such as New Year’s resolutions with a positive outlook, committed to bettering our lives.

Side Note
The word “resolute” isn’t used as often as its cousins “resolution” and “resolve”; it seems to have fallen out of favor, especially in this growing age of moral relativism. Making decisions and sticking to them is dangerous at times. Not everyone will like what we do. But that’s another post!

Happily Resolute
For me, I am happily resolute, though the waters have not always been as calm as those in the picture above. Yet it is for that very reason, having survived several of life’s storms and coming out stronger, that I can’t help but thank the Lord for His transforming grace, love, and mercy in my life. God’s faithfulness helps me remain resolute as I look to the future with much peace and hope, joyfully trusting Him to continue leading. That is the feeling that “hooked me” when I first spied that ship, and what still steers my course today. Here’s a poem I wrote about being resolute:

“Resolute”

Such uncertain future,
but sure of His deep love.
Peace lifts my tired soul
as I fully gaze above.
When flood waters rise
I’m tempted to shrink back,
but I trust in His provision
for the things that we lack.
Recalling past blessings
in the face of great need;
The belief that survives
is the one that I feed.
I look forward in faith,
clinging to the hope I find
midst the fierce storm
and the battle in my mind.
Through prayer and Word
God’s strength will sustain
to weather life’s torrents,
resolute through the rain.

3-11-12
©Ladeena Ashley

Over the years since that first sighting in Washington, whenever crossing that bridge I would scan the docks for that boat, and smile. Though no longer residing in that part of the Pacific Northwest, whenever I catch a glimpse of a boat, the memory and the encouragement remain.

May this post encourage you to be more resolute in trusting the Lord through life’s storms. He may not rescue you from them, but He has promised to always be with you through them. The struggles may last longer than our own strength can get us past, and we may stumble, but as long as we keep getting back up, keep trying, and claiming God’s promises, we can overcome the impossible.

Faith Notes
Speaking of overcoming, check out this awesome song:
Overcomer – by Mandisa
(Note: Link will open in new window.)

God’s Word On Resolute

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Hebrews 12:1-3

“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

“…In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Be strong and courageous! Deuteronomy 31:6; Joshua 1:9
Run so as to win the race! 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Inwardly we are being renewed day by day! 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:58
We will reap a harvest if we don’t give up! Galatians 6:9

©Ladeena Ashley
2017 All Rights Reserved (blog content and photos)

Be TRANSFORMED!

 

In my last post, I spoke of being transformed by the grace of God. Recently the focus at my church has also been on that very topic (God is on the move!). Certainly, with world events unfolding as they have been, the need for personal transformation is more imperative now than ever. If we’re to have any lasting impact on our world, we all need to be transformed daily into the likeness of Jesus. In fact, for some we may be the only Jesus they see.

In looking back on my own journey, pondering and praying about how it happened, I felt led to share the progression more specifically with you. God inspired me to list out the main areas of growth, strength or change in the form of an acronym, using the word “transformed”. I hope and pray that these thoughts will inspire and help you grow in your own journey of transformation.

Trust Jesus – Although I trust in Him for salvation, it is only the start. True trust means trusting completely that Christ is who He says He is, and that day in and day out, we choose His ways over ours. To do that, every one of the enemy’s lies must be replaced with the truth of God’s Word. For instance, when I’m tempted to focus on my shortcomings or succumb to fears about the future, the Lord reminds me that I am His beloved child and His plans are good for me (Jeremiah 29:11)! For me, one of the most simple but powerful words to pray are: “Lord, I trust You.”

Repent & Pray – Many things can hold us back from being that “living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God” (Romans 12:1), and become idols or stumbling blocks to transformation. For me, it is too easy to plop down in front of the TV instead of spending time with Him. Temptations vary, but forgiveness and peace are always available when I daily claim His forgiveness and seek to change. Through Christ we are sanctified (made clean and set apart), but it’s important to “work out our salvation” (Philippians 2:12) by intentionally choosing Him each day. In struggles, we must accept His correction, even if it’s difficult.

Accountability – This is a tough one. Being vulnerable with God is one thing, but letting others into the most deepest, darkest parts of inner life is another. We all need one or two special people in our lives for perspective, encouragement and yes, sometimes conviction to stay on track. “Two are better than one…if one falls down his friend can help him up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). I’m thankful that during this past year, God has brought the right people to speak into my life, greatly enriching my faith journey.

Never Give Up! – Some days I don’t feel God’s presence as strongly as other days, but thankfully faith is not a feeling, but an action! Despite my fickle emotions, I trust that He will never leave me or forsake me (Deuteronomy 3:6), and I can do all things through His strength (Philippians 4:8)! One of my favorite verses is Hebrews 10:23 – “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.” For me, just knowing that the creator of the universe knows and loves me is at once humbling and empowering. That thought alone has sustained me during many trying situations.

Serve Others – The most powerful thing you can do in the midst of your own troubles is to come alongside others through theirs. Sharing some of my story and poems with the women at Simonka Place (shelter for women and children, through Union Gospel Mission) has been an incredible blessing and source of holy joy for me. It gets my mind off of myself and makes my problems seem minuscule in comparison. Plus God is using me to bless people – which is definitely a win/win!

Follow His Word – To follow what the Lord says, we must read it, meditate on it, and memorize it. “I have hidden Your Word in my heart, that I might not sin against You.” (Psalm 119:11). Wisdom and grace come in surrender to God through His Word. It comes alive through His Spirit in me: lifting me up, emboldening me and shedding light on those areas on which I need to work. Growing up in the church and knowing many passages of Scripture is no excuse; there’s always something new He can show me.

Order Priorities – Long ago, I learned another acronym: JOY (Jesus first, Others second, Yourself last), and it is a wonderfully simple creed to live by. Balancing life’s demands – work and service with rest and play – is practically an art form. Even as comparatively simple as my life is, I haven’t quite mastered it. I’m getting there. I do what I can, then rest in His grace as I look to Him each day, knowing He’ll direct my path (Proverbs 3:6).

Remember His Faithfulness – In other words, count your blessings! The Lord actually longs to be gracious to us (Isaiah 30:18), and He’s proven it over and over again throughout my life: that perfectly timed song, sage words of a good friend, and many other blessings! Cultivate an attitude of gratitude. Look for God’s grace everywhere, and you will find it. When we recall what He’s done, we can worship and sing praise even in hard times, because He carries us and loves us so perfectly.

Mentor Others – True transformation compels us to share what we’ve learned with others. We all have a story; the lessons and insight gained might be exactly what someone else in a similar circumstance needs to hear. For me, this blog is a form of mentoring. Befriending others or deepening existing friendships can be a great blessing to both parties. Taking a younger person under your wing and sharing your wisdom might steer them away from the mistakes you made. We have all been blessed to be a blessing (2 Corinthians 9:8), so don’t be stingy with His grace!

Encourage Others – The transforming power of God moves me to be that city on a hill (Matthew 5:14), shining His light and love wherever I go. The Lord expects nothing less than our all, but with so many blessings we can’t help but share the reason for the hope we have (1 Peter 3:15), and boldly so, as the Spirit directs!

Destroy Strongholds – Especially as violence erupts and tensions flare worldwide, it’s never been more obvious that we are engaged in a spiritual battle, one that isn’t against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:12). Changed hearts effect more change in the world – one life at a time! Trusting in our Commander, we, as His soldiers, must fight the good fight – on our knees, in prayer. Only by His power will we demolish strongholds in Jesus’ name (2 Corinthians 10:4).

In Closing…

So that is what the Lord has impressed on me to share. I don’t claim to have all the answers, and this isn’t a definitive list, but my prayer is that some of the points hit home with you. If we ever hope to effect change out there, it begins with transformed lives within. Christ never changes; He is the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8), but His love and grace changes us. By believing and actively trusting in Him through these and other spiritual disciplines, we might just start a revival!
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God – this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – His good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:1-2

© Ladeena Ashley
2016 All Rights Reserved (blog content and photos)