For most of my life I have heard multiple variations of “Let go and let God.” or “Jesus take the wheel.” I’ve also been told too many times to count that my path in life was made hard simply because I won’t submit my life to God and just give in to God’s will.

The problem I have with this ideology is that in all my times studying scripture did I ever come across any turn of phrase that indicates true tests of faith are passed by simply standing still and allowing life to just happen all around you. In fact, scripture references heavily acts of war when speaking of overcoming life circumstance.

“Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”

Ephesians 6:11

“Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to.”

Luke 13:24

My interpretation of the scripture is that our life is NOT about standing still. It’s about waging war against worldly adversaries with the faith that no matter how hard your experiences may seem there is a greater purpose to it all. Christianity is about fighting the good fight in faith that God moves in our life for good and not to punish us. Hardship shapes us, puts our feet to the fire, and sets us on our purpose filled paths. In other words, “suck it up buttercup!” Life’s supposed to be thinning the herd and testing our mettle.

My faith is strong, my faith is unrelenting, my faith is only fueled by my adversity and in turn, has been my beacon during my darkest times. I do grow weary at times and I sometimes get discouraged in the actions of man but my love for Him rejuvenates my spirit over and over. No, my faith is not in question, only my character as I rise above the struggles of the flesh and challenge myself to walk a righteous path at His command.

So my message today is to let go of popular catch phrases. God has not requested complacency from His children. Nowhere my testimonies will I encourage a child of God to give anything less than your all plus 50% Let go only all of your negative doubts and insecurities and let God be glorified in every hand He takes in your life. Even if you can’t see it, God has a bigger picture being painted for his child.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make straight your paths.”

Proverbs 3:5-6