To transition from one point in our lives to another, it may be a long and even uncomfortable journey. But the essence of it all is to “Go to the Other Side!” Will getting to the other side be easy? Without a doubt, in most cases it will not be. Nevertheless, to obtain things such as joy, satisfaction, or peace, we need to equip ourselves for the journey. This post is very personal to me, but I know I am not the only one who needs to move beyond some challenges in life. As my First Lady Mother Edwards often reminds the women of our church, we are all going through something in our lives. One person’s load may appear to be heavier than someone else’s, mainly because you don’t know their story.
Every one of us has a story, and our story may feel like a ton of bricks lying on our backs. Just because we keep on smiling and saying we are good, it doesn’t mean our load is not heavy. For me, I will continue to profess God’s goodness regardless of what I have to go through. In doing so, speaking of what God has done makes me know He will do it again and again as I need Him to. Where does our faith lie? Is it in man, finances, doctors, lawyers, family, or other areas? Hopefully, not. God will use man and others to assist us to “Go to the Other Side!” past what we are going through. Henceforth, He takes us there, if and only if we keep our eyes and focus on Him.
Furthermore, the type of relationship (we always come back to relationships) we have with the Lord determines the journey to the other side. Briefly, let’s consider Peter’s journey to the “other side.” Most of you are probably familiar with Matthew 14:22-36. If not, you can read or review it at your leisure. In brief, Jesus told His disciples to get into a ship and cross to the other side of the sea. While on the ship, the waves were tossing and the wind contrary. Otherwise, a storm arose. Isn’t that just like life? All appears to be well, and out of nowhere or somewhere a storm arises to shake us out of our comfortable, safe place.
Hence, let me make this story quick. In the midst of the storm, Jesus, who was not on the ship, came from praying on the mountain. He walks out onto the sea because He knows the disciples are afraid. Are you afraid as you go through? Jesus let the disciples know it was He, and there was no need to fear. Is Jesus speaking to you right now? As He bid Peter to come to Him at his request, Peter was able to walk on the water. But when the wind got boisterous, Peter became afraid and began to sink. As he cried out for Jesus to save him, Jesus immediately did so. You can read the rest. “Go to the Other Side!”
Last words. Don’t fret about what you are going through. Moreover, do not let the journey concern or worry you. Worry will hinder your progress. Keep your eyes on Jesus, not the situation or the journey. Winds may blow, and challenges come. Despite how you may feel, cry out to God. Have faith, encourage yourself when no one else is around, and allow Jesus to turn every situation in your favor. It will work for your good. Because this is the will of God concerning you. You are coming out and “Go to the Other Side!” What is on the other side? Your joy, peace, healing, and whatever you need from God. That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. 1 Corinthians 2:5. I’ll return next week with a new post, “Wait and See!”
Be encouraged, and God bless!
Sister Jackie
Amen! Sometimes the journey to the other side seems soooo long, painful and we want to give up. But, as long as we keep our eyes on Jesus, we will make it to the other side. Thank you for the reminder!
Yes, we will make it to the other side with Jesus as our focus and not the situation. Thank you for responding, baby girl. I know that you know the power of Jesus! God bless you, and I thank God for guiding you through your journeys.