We have control over our prayer life, our relationship with Jesus.
The truth is that the Spirit of the living God is guaranteed to ask you to go somewhere or do something you wouldn't normally want or choose to do. The Spirit will lead you into the way of the cross, as He led Jesus to the cross, and that is definitely not a safe or pretty or comfortable place to be. The Holy Spirit of God will mold you into the person you were made to be.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The Holy Spirit often guides us toward challenges and growth that we may initially resist but are essential for our true selves.
This quote emphasizes that the guidance of the Holy Spirit often leads individuals to uncomfortable situations that are vital for personal development and spiritual growth. Just as Jesus was led to the cross, believers are encouraged to embrace the challenges imposed by the Spirit, which ultimately shape them into their intended selves. It reflects the paradox of finding purpose and fulfillment in surrendering to a path that may seem daunting or undesirable at first.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a sermon discussing the importance of following one's spiritual calling.
More from Francis Chan
All quotes βA disciple is a disciple maker.
Don't fall into the trap of studying the Bible without doing what it says.
Our God listens to us. Our God is a living God. He's not a block of wood you made up that's not going to answer you. My God listens to me. He answers me.
...I don't have to worry about not meeting His expectations. God will ensure my success in accordance with His plan, not mine.
People who are obsessed with Jesus aren't consumed with their personal safety and comfort above all else. Obsessed people care more about God's kingdom coming to this earth than their own lives being shielded from pain or distress.
Similar quotes
Our Lord's first obedience was to the will of his Father, not to the needs of men; the saving of men was the natural outcome of his obedience to the Father.
Saving faith is the faith of God's elect; the special gift of God to them, wrought in them by his Spirit.
I never realized what a great privilege it is to be able to use the voice for Christ until I was deprived of it.
God actually delights in exalting our inability. He intentionally puts his people in situations where they come face to face with their need for him.
Outside of Christ, I am only a sinner, but in Christ, I am saved. Outside of Christ, I am empty; in Christ, I am full. Outside of Christ, I am weak; in Christ, I am strong. Outside of Christ, I cannot; in Christ, I am more than able. Outside of Christ, I have been defeated; in Christ, I am already victorious. How meaningful are the words, "in Christ."
It is for us to do those things which the Lord requires at our hands, and leave the result with him.