Ever heard of the “breakthrough factor?” It’s the sweet spot in life where everything we’ve prayed for finally comes together. Newness makes a grand entrance, ushering in a new job, financial stability, and, best of all, a new relationship. Our energy is high, and our optimism soars even higher. We’re busier than ever, squeezing and tweaking our schedules to make room for the new man. The more we invest, the more he seems to want in return. It’s all good, though, because that old sad song of loneliness is a distant memory, and we’ve got a new groove that’s full of promise and excitement—at least, that’s what we tell ourselves.
It will always ring true that even when newness is upon us, if we allow our relationship with God to slip, that newness will fail to retain its bloom. We need to be brutally honest with ourselves about how things can shift after we receive the breakthroughs we desire with all our hearts. There’s an adjustment period that comes with these changes, and we’re not always equipped to navigate it as well as we should. The initial thrill can quickly give way to unexpected challenges, and the reality of our new circumstances might not meet our expectations. It’s essential to recognize that embracing new blessings requires not just excitement, but also an unwavering commitment to keep God first in our lives.God wants us to be happy even more than we want it for ourselves, but He asks us to prioritize Him above all else. Many believers are drifting away from this privilege and obligation. The spiritual condition of born-again believers today can appear shaky. Some of us struggle to remain consistent in our faith, vacillating in our commitment and becoming distracted by worldliness and the uncertainty that surrounds us. Many who profess to love the Lord and be committed to Him find themselves doubting His love altogether. There are countless single people who have been praying for a spouse, yet their zeal and faith in God’s promises have waned.
Psalm 127: 1 (NLT) reminds us, “Unless the Lord builds a house, the work of the builders is wasted. Unless the Lord protects a city, guarding it with sentries will do no good.” We need to remember that the breakthrough can seem like wasted effort if we don’t keep our relationship with God as our highest priority. Intimacy and obedience in our walk with Him are essential; they form the foundation on which all blessings grow and flourish. No job, amount of money, or relationship can compare to the joy and stability that come with showering our Heavenly Father with our love. When we prioritize Him, everything else falls into place, allowing us to fully embrace the blessings He has in store for us.
In times of uncertainty, it’s vital to ground ourselves in God’s Word. Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT) reassures us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” This promise reminds us that even when our faith feels shaky and our prayers seem unanswered, God is always at work behind the scenes, orchestrating our lives for our ultimate good.
Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:33 (NLT), “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.” This is a verse that we often hear, but we underestimate its profound truth. God wants the hearts and minds of His children to remain consistent and unwavering in their faith toward Him. Don’t wait until after the breakthrough to consider how you’ll stay loyal to your faith. Think about this now and commit to allowing the Spirit to lead and guide you so you’re spiritually prepared when temptation arises. When you do this, he will help you navigate through new beginnings in a way that honors God. Nothing will be wasted, and everything will be used for our Father’s glory. Remember, your faithfulness will pave the way for a relationship that pleases Him and is covered by His peace and grace. ■
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.
“How to Ensure Our Efforts Are Not Wasted” written by Kim Times, edited by Rev. Fran Mack and KLizzie for Sundie Morning Sistas ©2024. All rights reserved. All done to the glory of God through Jesus Christ, our Lord! SMS is dedicated to inspiring and encouraging Christian Women through the Word of God.