God’s Work vs. My Efforts

Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.

Ephesians 3:20

Endless summer days. Texas heat. Drought. We hadn’t seen rain for weeks. The grass struggled with its gray hue, and flowers remained wilted in spite of my effort of moving sprinklers around to keep them watered. I prayed daily for rain to come.

When a long soaking rain finally came, the grass turned vibrant green and flowers perked with fresh blooms and colors. It struck me how much effort I put into trying to keep our yard and flower beds beautiful to no avail. God achieved beauty with a few hours of rain and showed me He doesn’t need my help to accomplish His will. How many times have I tried to fix things in my own strength?

Once, I worked with someone who disliked me very much and freely showed it. This troubled my people pleaser’s heart and caused me much stress. 

The Lord reminded me to trust Him. So, each time something happened that twisted my heart, I prayed, “Lord, I give it to You. Fight my battle and change her heart toward me.” Then, my heart felt peace. 

Months later, when another co-worker gave gifts to several people over a week’s time, she left my opposer and me out. Suddenly, she and I had something in common, and her heart changed toward me instantly. Now, I was her new BFF!

What God had done amused and amazed me. He used a silly situation to change her heart toward me, and to this day, we are still friends. 

Only God could have done this. If I had tried to fix it on my own, I likely would have made it worse. This would’ve remained a gray spot in my life. Like the grass the Lord watered with rain, this relationship had a fresh appearance.

What situation in your life needs surrendering to the Lord? He knows the very best way to fix it. It might not be how you envision it, but I promise, it will be more efficient and more beautiful than you ever thought possible if you trust Him. 

Johna Clemons