by Laura Putney
I began hanging on to the psalmist’s promise more than a year ago, and I can say that I’ve seen it as truth in my life. He says:
For the Lord God is a sun and shield;
the Lord bestows favor and honor;
no good thing does he withhold
from those whose walk is blameless (Psalm 84:11, ESV).
It’s easy enough to repeat, but so much harder to believe that He is withholding “no good thing” from me. However, I’ve learned to depend upon this promise, and God rewards faith even if it takes a year and half to really feel and see the results!
In August 2014, I thought God was providing a relationship that I had been praying for and longing for since I was in college: a good thing. We were having fun hanging out and talking and then all of a sudden, his views on life and his attitude revealed some areas that I didn’t agree with and believe he still needs to sort out with the Lord. I ended up having to end the relationship.
I started out choosing the cowardly way: texting him and avoiding having a real discussion. Then God provided the courage to confront him face to face. (I hate confrontation, and God is teaching me to be courageous instead of avoiding situations.) I realized that though it was uncomfortable that it’s not fair or kind to leave him hanging without explaining myself. So we had that discussion.
It was hard, confusing and difficult, but God provided the strength and wisdom I needed. I had to end what I thought I wanted to bring peace to my soul. I realized that God wasn’t withholding anything from me. He was good to reveal to me that the relationship wasn’t good for me, and thankfully, my heart was listening. Now I don’t have what I thought I wanted, but I look at the blessings around me and see that God is withholding no good thing from me.
I choose instead to count my blessings.
- My salvation through Christ
- My identity in Christ
- My passion and love for people
- A church family and pastors who help me grow
- A supportive and loving family
- An awesome life group
- College girls to encourage and disciple
- Great co-workers
- A patient and kind boss
- A great car with great financing
- Time to work out
- Time to study my Bible
I’m learning that if God is withholding something, perhaps, at least for now, it’s not a good thing! I’m beginning to learn that God’s definition of good things and my definition of good things are vastly different. I hope I’m starting to see ‘good’ the way He does. Believe me, I haven’t got this promise down, and I’m still going to struggle, but I’m thankful that He is faithful and good.
Will you join me in finding joy in the good things God has given you in your singleness? I’m finding joy in serving others and in believing He is good no matter the circumstances.
Laura Putney loves to write, listen to music, drink coffee, eat dark chocolate, travel the world, and love people like Jesus does.
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