She leaned in close, whispering, “Give me your diet secrets.” Stunned for a moment, I smile before answering. In my quiet time, I’d read the words of Jesus, “my food is to do the will of Him who sent me.” I wonder how well that answer works in response to her question? Breathing a prayer, I begin with my standard answer to diet-related queries, “I’m not a nutritionist, so I can only give you general guidelines.”
Are You Seeking Diet Secrets?
We desire those seven secret keys to get ahead or three life hacks that take us directly to our goal with minimum effort. But, spiritual growth is not easily condensed into a quick and easy formula. God has specific lessons and tasks for His children to work through. What spurs development for one may not work for someone else. We may pass on wisdom to each other from our personal experiences, but the insights we glean from our skinned knees are general guidelines and not a shortcut through life’s pain.
Just a Little While
Many of us crave a deeper connection with God during this Holy Week. There may be those longing for a return to normalcy and holiday traditions. And there may be those mourning over a loved one lost too soon. Wherever we find ourselves, there is a pull from the world to find an easier way to cut through the hard work or sorrow. Please don’t think I’m against making life easier. I’m not.
And the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 1 Peter 5:10 NIV
As I remember Christ and all that He suffered throughout this Holy Week, I can’t help but think, “the only way out of suffering is through.” Jesus didn’t go around, over, or under the challenges in His calling. He went through. Maybe this year, we can share in His suffering as a privilege. Give Him a sacrifice of praise through the hard places for a little while. Because perhaps the diet secret we are looking for is being fully aligned with His will in this season. His glory is eternal, while our suffering with Him promises to be temporary. He will restore us, strengthen us, and secure our position in Him.
Let’s Reflect
Dear One, ask God to walk with you through the hard and holy days ahead. Find your way through the challenges this season has in store for you. And write a Psalm of Praise on Easter Sunday and a gratitude list of what you’ve gleaned from this experience.
Let’s Pray
Precious Jesus, we see Your suffering. We heard the ‘Hosannas’ turn to cries for Your crucifixion. Lord, we remember that we have been crucified with You. We leave space in our hearts to imagine how You felt on the cross. And may our food be to do Your will, living for Your glory and not ours. In Your holy name, we pray, Amen.