Input Affects Outflow
Being with Jesus affects the effectiveness of our daily moments, and that truth shapes how we respond. In the movie Top Gun, Maverick (Tom Cruise) shouts at a decisive moment, "EJECT! EJECT! EJECT!"
That's exactly how the enemy of our spirit, soul, and body wants us to respond to life's situations—whether they are difficult or even unexpectedly good. He wants us to pull away, panic, isolate, or give up.
Jesus, however, extends a very different invitation. He gently and urgently calls us, "ENGAGE... ENGAGE... ENGAGE... with Me."
Earlier this week, I was working on my laptop without plugging it into the charger. I had an important gathering scheduled for noon and felt prepared, so charging my computer didn't seem necessary at the time.
Then, unexpectedly, I was given the opportunity to participate in another meeting that was especially meaningful to me, which changed the importance of the moment.
I arrived on time, but my laptop battery was running dangerously low.
At that moment, I realized something basic yet profound: I needed to be connected to the power source long before I needed the power, and that changed how I saw the rest of the day.
I plugged my laptop in for as long as I could while gathering my things, but there wasn't enough time to fully recharge it. Isn't that often how we live spiritually?
Just as our electronic devices require consistent charging to function well, our hearts need continual connection with Jesus. We aren't meant to wait until we're depleted, anxious, overwhelmed, or facing an unexpected opportunity before we connect with His presence. Our input always affects our outflow.
The difference between being dismantled by the enemy and standing firmly in peace is found in an ongoing, vibrant relationship with Jesus.So instead of asking, "What am I going to do about this?" begin asking, "Jesus, what are we going to do about this together?" It's a together thing.
When you begin feeling anxious, unsettled, discouraged, or overwhelmed, don't pull away. ENGAGE. Quiet your mind and turn your heart toward Him. As you listen, you'll begin to hear His Spirit gently remind you:"I've already overcome this situation. I've got you."
Your feelings may not change immediately, and your circumstances may not change overnight. But His presence changes you in the middle of them.
Pause. Listen. Engage with the One who holds every answer and lovingly whispers: "It's not about striving; it's about flourishing right in the middle of it all. Turn toward Me. Walk with Me. Talk with Me. Include Me in every moment. We are doing this together." Jesus didn't simply create you to believe in Him. He created you to enjoy a lasting friendship WITH Him.
The Call to Action:
ENGAGE. ENGAGE. ENGAGE.
Talk with Jesus throughout your day even more often than you check your phone or even talk with your closest friends. Don't wait until you're running on empty. Stay connected to your true power source.
today’s radiant insight:
Your input determines your outflow. Engage with Jesus now.