by Kristi Louis
by Kristi Louis
Happy New Year 🎆 from the Louis Fam❤️ As I sit in the comfy quiet of my home after a powerful time at @upperroomm EOY, I’m wanting to give you a nugget of wisdom at the brink of this New Year, and though this may not be a typical New Year’s message, this is what is bubbling up. Be of good courage, regardless of life’s season. It’s time to THRIVE in 2025! …
Joseph was appreciated in Egypt and yet he was banished from Israel. David was at once welcomed in the palace and then chased far from it, running for his life in the wilderness. And Moses, as well, in an attempt to stick up for his Israelite brothers was accused and driven into Midian, where he made his home in the wilderness for 40 years. There was no room for Jesus in the inn, and yet he was born a Spotless Lamb in a stable. And speaking of Jesus, he was forced out of his hometown of Nazareth and yet, SENT, anointed to minister in Capernum.
These stories of our Biblical heroes have always challenged me and also have greatly comforted me. None of these stories show an “easy” path to “greatness.” They are marked with seeming rejection, wilderness seasons, hiddenness and obscurity…pain and sorrow.
They are simultaneously marked with God moving behind the scene to accomplish HIS purpose of redemption for the whole of mankind. Joseph penned one of the greatest verses in Scripture regarding the sovereignty of God, in my opinion. “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
(Genesis 50:20). You see, it was never about Joseph’s “calling” or Moses’ “calling.” It was always about GOD’S HEART, His desire to bring deliverance, salvation, and wholeness to many. Joseph’s calling, Moses’ calling, David’s calling…were all to that end.
I’m not sure where you’re at in your “God-story,” but I want to encourage you that “wilderness” isn’t and indicator of sin; it’s an indicator of calling. And rejection by man is hardly that. It is part of the process; it’s His method for putting you where He wants you, not merely to accomplish “your calling,” but to be formed by Him, become one with His heart, and be set right in the center of His purpose and desire to “save many lives.”
If we can get deep down in our hearts God’s intent, His desire, His foreknowledge, we can live the abundant life regardless of where He puts us. So, on that note, together, let’s THRIVE in 2025!
