"Shake It Off"
- Rita Larson
- Sep 5, 2023
- 3 min read
Have you ever paid attention to a dog when it gets wet? Have you noticed how it shakes fast and furiously for a few seconds and then just goes on about its business? Truth is, there is a lesson to learn from a wet dog. We need to learn to shake some things off!
In life, we often find ourselves in situations that seem impossible to overcome. We may feel overwhelmed by the challenges we face, discouraged by the rejections we encounter, or disheartened by the seemingly never-ending duration of our struggles. We need to shake these things off! As Christians, our hope is in Jesus Christ. We know that God has the final say. No matter how bad things may look, no matter how many people have told us no, and no matter how long it's been that way, God's truth remains unchanged. It's not over until God says it's over. Shake it off!
In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." These words remind us that when we are feeling overwhelmed, we can find peace in Jesus. We can shake off our burdens and lay them at His feet and trust that He will provide us with the strength and rest we need.
In Isaiah 43:18-19. It says, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." This passage reminds us that no matter how long we have been stuck in a certain situation, God is capable of making a way for us. He can turn our deserts into streams of blessings and bring about new beginnings in our lives.
A scripture that beautifully encapsulates God's greater purpose for our life is found in Isaiah 55:8-9. It says, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." This passage reminds us that God's perspective is far beyond our own limited understanding. His plans for us are vast and encompassing, and they often surpass our wildest imaginations. Therefore, we must trust that even when things seem bleak and hopeless, God has a greater purpose in mind.
Another key scripture can be found in Hebrews 12:1-2. It says, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith." This passage urges us to let go of anything that weighs us down and prevents us from fully embracing God's plan for our lives. It reminds us to fix our gaze on Jesus, who is the source of our strength and the one who leads us to victory.
Lastly, one more scripture that reinforces the idea that it's not over until God says it's over is found in Jeremiah 29:11. It says, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." This verse reminds us that God has a specific plan for each of our lives. He promises to bring about prosperity and hope, even in the midst of our trials. Therefore, we can take comfort in knowing that no matter how long our struggles may last or how many setbacks we encounter, God's promise for our lives remains steadfast.
When the enemy tries to rob you, just like a wet dog, shake it off! Our hope is in Jesus Christ and through His blood, all things are possible. Remember, it's not over until God says it's over. Shake off the self-pity, disappointment, and distractions that may try to weigh you down. Instead, hold on to the truth of God's Word and His promises for your life. Trust in His final say, for He is faithful to bring about restoration, redemption, and victory. ©Rita Larson 9/5/2023
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