Militant Demands and God's Greater Plan

A few short years ago, I held the title of Army Commander, just like my friend Naaman (2 Kings 5). He was plagued with leprosy; I've struggled for years with a chronic illness. Disease seems contrary to the able-bodied demands of the military, and like Naaman I’ve pleaded often for healing.

Yet also like Naaman, my physical suffering has been just a superficial nod to the much deeper sickness lurking within: that of pride and vanity. It's more comfortable to hide weaknesses and ignorance behind a guise of egoism and self-importance. It's easier to pretend we’re capable than admit we’re not. It’s more convenient to ignore those we deem inferior than embrace the humility of listening to wisdom that can save us.

I had to learn quickly as a commander that the best way doesn't necessarily equate to "my way," and that our strength as a unit was built on the collective talents and combined efforts of the whole team. When I humbled myself enough to listen to others instead of relying on my own narrow perspective and limited power, I benefitted in huge ways and the outcome was far better.

I'm learning that the same applies when I make demands of God for provision or healing or wholeness in the way I want and on the timeline I want. Seldom do I want to humble myself to listen His wisdom that might not perfectly align with my desired terms.

Yet when I can muster enough humility to ask for help accepting His way instead of mine—when I invite His power into my limitations and weaknesses—when I ask for the grace to surrender to His timing—the outcome is far better, and His healing and wholeness always greater.

It's easier to pretend we’re capable than admit we’re not. // @PosImperfectClick to tweet

Pray the Suscipe today.

Megan Hjelmstad is a wife and mom 24/7 and an Army Reservist in her “spare” time. She is the Stories Manager for the Blessed is She Instagram account. She’s a bibliophile, tea drinker, sleep lover, and avid admirer of Colorado’s great outdoors. She is a contributing author to our children's devotional prayer book called Rise Up. When the writing bug hits, you can find out more about her here.