I am including some articles and thoughts that have encouraged me and I thought would be an encouragement to you. If you would like to submit an article, send me an email at eric@mosaic.org.
Today, enjoy “The Gift of Limitations” from Dave “Adrenaline” Auda, one of the most caring and fast-moving leaders at Mosaic.
(See Genesis 45:3-8 and 50:14-21)
“When I was a little guy I used to have dreams about flying; not the “get in a plane and take off” type of flying, but the “stick out my arms and soar to the clouds” kind. So, one morning I climbed up on the roof and with the corners of my bed-sheet gripped tightly I jumped out to hang glide across my front yard and down the street. I lost count of how many times my mom asked, “What were you thinking,” as we drove to the ER.
Life sometimes gently and other times jarringly informs us of our legitimate limitations. Most of the time these limitations frustrate us. I mean, no coach ever pumped up his team with a “can’t do attitude.” Limitations also have the deflating tendency to discourage us. This is especially true when we see others excelling at something we awkwardly struggle through.
But, what if God actually has a divine purpose in limitations? Rather than intentionally frustrating us; what if God means for that parameter to refocus our dreams and passions in a challenging new direction? Rather than maliciously discouraging us; what if God designed that obstacle to redirect our creative energies toward a more fruitful and fulfilling enterprise? What if God’s limitations in our lives are purposefully crafted to help us discover our genuine uniqueness? What if God’s limitations truly bless our lives and empower us to become a blessing to many, many, many others—just like Joseph?
Then again, maybe my mom was right—“What am I thinking?”
Soaring,
Dave”
“But, what if God actually has a divine purpose in limitations?
“what if God designed that obstacle to redirect our creative energies toward a more fruitful and fulfilling enterprise? ”
Great observation.
If we view our limitations as discouragements, it tells us a little about how we view God. Do we believe he has the best intentions for us, or do we believe the lie that he is trying to keep the best from us? Even Jesus, while he walked this earth, was faced with jarring limitations. But, he showed us that through his seemingly greatest setbacks came his greatest triumphs, most noteworthy, our redemption.
I loved this, thanks.