Everyone Needs a Live-in

by | Feb 13, 2014 | Devotionals, reflections, and encouragement | 5 comments

The underbelly of our family has been on display since we returned from Chicago. We have a live-in. She has seen sides of our family that have likely etched ugly moustaches and beards over the glossy image on our Christmas card.

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It has been humbling to live in TOTAL transparency before her.

Does she sees my heart for God while we live with one foot in St Catharines and the other in Brantford? Is my fierce love for Jesus and my family evident? Does she see a longing to be in God’s presence and true repentance when I mess up?

Or, does she only see the outer. The flared temper, the failed attempts, the enforced discipline?

I know God doesn’t expect my life to be perfect but He does expect it to be different. Even when we are stretched between two cities, two communities, and two lives.

Does my life look different to her?

God expects me to be a grace-filled, God-honouring parent, spouse, and friend during all seasons of life. There is no free-pass due to stress, unhappiness, frustration, or ________. (You fill in the blank.)

I’ve decided that every person needs a live-in during a season that exposes the underbelly of life and what really fills the heart. And if that makes you cringe, well, good. Sometimes what we need isn’t very comfortable.

A live-in. A 24/7 Presence that sees it all, hears it all and knows it all. A Presence that sheds light into those corners hidden from the average eye. A Presence that will not allow me to pretend I have to altogether when I don’t.

And trust me, I don’t.

I need a live in. You need a live in. A Presence who dwells, not in our home, but in US  (Rom. 8:9; 1 Cor. 3:16; 2 Tim. 1:14; John 14:17). A Presence who fills us (Acts 2:4; 9:17). A Presence who produces fruit (Gal. 5:22-23). A Presence who washes and renews us (Titus 3:5). A Presence who strengthens our spirits (Eph. 3:16).

If Christ is your Saviour, you have one.

His Holy Spirit.

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5 Comments

  1. ian buist
    ian buist on February 13, 2014 at 9:40 am

    Hi Stacey, I identify with you! However, John 1:14 tells me Jesus Christ came FULL of grace and truth. Truth tells me I have messed up…Grace tells me to cut some slack! Blessings, Ian

    • staceyweeks
      staceyweeks on February 13, 2014 at 11:21 am

      Thank you Ian for the beautiful reminder that our God is gracious and forgiving.

      • ian buist
        ian buist on February 14, 2014 at 9:50 am

        Yes! If He wasn’t I’d be sunk!

  2. Ellie
    Ellie on February 13, 2014 at 9:19 am

    Thanks so much for sharing Stacey. So often when I am reading your posts, I feel as though you have entered into my mind and my heart and are writing my story. You are a blessing. I so want my life to show Jesus and most often I wonder if others see quite the opposite. Oh, how we need our Saviour.
    Ellie

    • staceyweeks
      staceyweeks on February 13, 2014 at 11:21 am

      I’m right there with you, Ellie. I see my need for Jesus fresh everyday as I battle the sin in my heart. Ian’s comment (below) is a wonderful reminder of God’s grace as well.