too often we use the word "overwhelmed" to mean busy or stressed. we glorify our situation to an entirely new state of chaos. I'm guilty of it more than anyone. I tend to use words that aren't descriptive, that don't give good insight into where I am or how I'm feeling. For instance, saying "very sad" instead of "gloomy" or "very sunny" instead of "bright." Overwhelmed is used for busy-ness and stress, for times when there are so many thing and emotions and events happening at one time that you can't really sum it up into anything else but the over saturation of your mind and schedule.
But there is another typed of overwhelmed. A good kind. One can be overwhelmed by beauty or love. Overwhelmed by the glory of the Lord or mercy or any other aspect of the Creator of the Universe that we call Father.
I dwell on this negative type of overwhelmed entirely too much. Yes, I'm busy. Yes, I'm stressed. No, I am not overwhelmed with negativity or beyond the point of going any more.
If I were not a Christian, I might be allowed to be overwhelmed. But as a Christian, I am reminded daily of the love of Christ, forgiveness of Christ, the sacrifice of Christ, and the redemption of Christ. God calls us to lay our burdens down at His feet.
lately, I've felt too burdened to let go of my burden (that doesn't even make sense as I write it, but it is what it is). you see I have this life that keeps throwing me curve balls and bumps in the roads and flat tires. The enemy is getting me down pretty good. Then I was encouraged today with "don't waste your day because you might not have tomorrow." How true! Several people around me have passed away recently unexpectedly. None of us are guaranteed tomorrow. We cannot worry about what is going to happen - it does no good. It only stresses us out or "overwhelms."
Lots of change is going on right now in areas of my life, God is sovereign. When I wonder what comes next - God is sovereign. He has shown me time and time again that His plans are greater than mine could ever be. He has fulfilled and been faithful in Romans 8:28 "For all things work together for the good of those who love Him." Why should it be different this time or in this change or today? It shouldn't.
I am weak. I return to my old ways time and time again. Guess what? I'm human. but Christ is so much more. He turns me towards Him, in the right direction. He never leaves or forsakes me. I can be overwhelmed by His glory and His love for me despite my weakness. I can be overwhelmed by His provision and faithfulness. And I can stand firm that He will show me the way if only I will listen.
"Overwhelmed" - Big Daddy weave
