I’m in a love-hate relationship. In fact, I’m in over my head.

Some days I’m totally into it. Most of the time, I want to run away screaming and never look back. Some days I do. Scream, that is. Running’s never been one of my strengths.

This book and me. It’s the toughest relationship I’ve ever maintained.

Thirty five years of marriage hasn’t been a breeze, ya’ll. But, this book project? Four years in and I’m stretched like Silly Putty. But, that’s what I asked for when I decided to do something bigger than me. When I invited you in on this search for our God-created identity.

Our original design hides inside all of us. The one who’s meant to live in freedom. The one who’s meant to find joy in life even when it’s flat out hard.

But, we wrestle with our God-given design. Even when we don’t intend to, sometimes we make life harder than it has to be. I believe we’re all wired as rebels at some level. To doubt, to question, to push back a tad.

My two-year-old grand-babies, Alex and Luna, are strong-willed. I don’t see it as “terrible twos.” I marvel at the potential of all that sass. So, the challenge is not to crush their little spirits, but redirect their energy for good.

Let’s not be too quick to toss a vital piece of how we’re made. We are fighters.

Jesus was a fighter. And we’re made in God’s image. So, I guess it’s a matter of using it for good, right?

Jesus rebelled to give us abundant life. He beat our soul’s enemy who seeks to keep us living below our created potential. Jesus fought to turn our eyes and hearts back to the most important part of our divine design: Constant connection with our Creator. Father, Son, Holy Spirit.

That’s what this book writing is doing for me. It’s magnifying my need for Him. Not just in my writing but in every part of life.

When we get in over our heads, God’s rebel Spirit keeps us in the fight.

What are you facing that’s bigger than you? When all you can do is cry out, “God, I can’t do this … I quit,” He lifts your head, scoops you up, and reminds you who you are and Whose you are. You are loved beyond measure. Treasured beyond understanding.

And yes, you are equipped. With all you need.

“Be confident in this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion .” ~Philippians 4:6

Now, my friend, let’s rock this day.