This is month two in our twelve month series on Setting Boundaries and Gaining SANITY. Last month, we discussed the importance of learning how to rest…to be still and know God in a more intimate way. In order to do that, many boomer babes must learn how and when to say, “No.” God does not require us to be everything to everyone. His desire is for us to have an intimate and meaningful relationship with His Son. In order to do that, we must spend quiet time in the Word of God. This isn’t always easy for us boomer babes, is it? By the time we’ve reached this point in life, many of us have habits that are hard to break. Hard—but not impossible, SANITY is possible.
It’s no secret that our country is experiencing a financial crisis. Depending on who you consult, the reasons for this situation are varied, and the outcome is unknown. However, if we look to the Word of God, we can clearly see an historic pattern from which we can learn. Whenever people put money and social status before God, the walls of pseudo safety eventually crumbled on top of them.
Matthew 6:20-22 (NIV)
But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
This passage takes on new meaning when all around us the destruction of financial decay is evident. Many baby boomers have suddenly found themselves in positions they could never have envisioned. Struggling financially, and losing more than just money. Many boomers are losing jobs, homes, marriages, and stability. They are being rocked to the core. Yet through the ashes we can see people of faith and vision rise up. We can see, first hand, what it means to actually walk the talk of someone who believes that God will make a way when there truly seems to be no way.
Quite simply, it’s not about how much money we have or don’t have. It’s about how willing we are to place our trust in God. We’ve grown uncontrollably in ways that are spiritually unhealthy, and we are no longer bearing the kind of fruit needed to further the kingdom. It’s time for considerable pruning. The Master Gardner is at work and I am trusting that the season will come again when we experience the lush crop of God’s glory. Our challenge during this time of divine pruning is to sink our roots deeper, and to grow in relationship with Him.
Pruning is painful but profitable. James tells us this in James 1:2-4.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Until next month, dear Boomer Babes who Rock, may the good Lord bless and keep you all!
©2009, Allison Bottke
Allison Bottke
www.SettingBoundaries.com
www.BoomerBabesRock.com
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