Monday, February 12, 2024

Have you seen the painting “Built for Adventure” by Henry Hintermeister?

In this painting, I see a joyful boy throwing the dock line before they are even ready to venture out on their little boat. The other boy, who is painting, is still in the middle of a project. Ignoring the fact that the boat is unfinished, the line is cast spontaneously, and their adventure is underway.

This is not how I typically go about my life. I am definitely the sort of person who needs to finish preparing my boat before I tackle an adventure. But if you think about it, an adventure with God is more like this painting, throwing out your line (AKA, your need for control) and having faith that God will provide.

Ben explained over the weekend that one of the reasons we participate in Preach Off is to open our hearts to seeing God through our circumstances. We don’t have to take life so seriously. And as we start taking things less seriously, it’s easier to experience God. Simply put, it’s taking a deep breath and turning our attention away from all the minute details and toward God.

Preach Off is exactly that! It’s an opportunity to experience God by learning about the Bible while having a little fun. And it’s a chance to take a step on the adventure with God.

Jeremiah 29:13
“If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.”

We often fall into a legalistic view, believing faith is just a bunch of rules to follow, when in reality, faith is seeing God as the loving Father he is. That’s not to say we should do whatever we want, but it’s important to understand that what God is offering is an opportunity for adventure, not a burden.

As you begin to pursue God and see that faith isn’t just a bunch of rules, you open yourself to filling up your life with Godly things and trusting him at his word. I’m not saying it will always be easy, but you can’t start your journey with God until you trust him enough to let go of the rope.

Questions:
What does it look like to seek out God?

What holds you back from inviting God into your life adventure?

In what areas of your life is your perfectionism more important than God's perfect plan?

Next step:
Challenge yourself to do one spontaneous thing a week this month.

Practice centering yourself and pray when you feel anxious.

Prayer:
Dear Lord, help me to seek you today! It feels safe to follow the rules and take life so seriously, but I want to go on an adventure with you. Help me to throw the rope even when it’s uncomfortable and I don’t feel completely prepared. I am filling my life up with you and trusting your Word. Jesus, help me as I take a breath and turn my attention to you. Amen.

This post was written by Becca Roberts, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut.