Are you all in?

If you asked me yesterday if I was all in for Christ Jesus, I would have given you an unequivocal yes. I chose Jesus, and I thought it meant I was all in. If the Holy Spirit dwells inside me, how can I not be all in? Well, the dream I just had answered that question for me.

Let’s talk about it…

So, a few days ago, I prayed and asked God where I stood with him, and this morning, I got my answer. I am called out of the darkness, but I have a problem. I’ve been flirting with the world, longing to go and gather where the world goes. God says stop it! I was shown something in my life that represents the world. Do you want to know what that something is?

Cigarettes, yes, cigarettes. I have attempted to quit several times over the years, and for one reason or another, I didn’t stop. I know it’s a nasty habit. It stinks, bad for you, yada yada yada. I know; I didn’t care. I never thought this would even be an issue because if the Lord wanted me to quit smoking, He would make me not want it anymore, Right? Wrong, maybe that’s how it was for some, but my Heavenly Father knows everything about me, and knew that wouldn’t work for me.

In this dream; I was so caught up with everyone else that I was willing to change my answer. I thought the people in my dream were getting a better opportunity because it was a lot of people, whom I once was a part of, but when it was my turn, they said, “not her” So I was like, “what you mean, not her?” They told me, you gave your answer already. Now, I’m on the phone trying to call someone to change my answer, but the phone didn’t work; I couldn’t text or call.

Then it hit me, I chose Jesus. I said yes to Jesus!

I started looking at the people all around; and realized that these people were in rebellion against Christ Jesus. They are being rounded up or herded, and I wanted to go with them. They are laughing and joking, with no idea what is ahead. Was I crazy? No, maybe a bit misguided, but it got my attention. I am grateful that Jesus loves me enough to take the time and point out what I was doing. I already chose Jesus, but I was willing to go back and choose the world over him because of what it looked like at the moment.

I bet you are wondering, okay, so where do cigarettes come in. I’m getting to that, but first, I tried to wake up because at this point, I know it’s a dream, but I couldn’t get up yet. Then I heard, “for you, cigarettes represent the world” I got up after that.

Thinking about my relationship with cigarettes, I realize smoking was one of the only things I have ever committed to for the last 27 years. It became my crutch, my idol. I never thought it would happen like this. All the times I prayed and asked God to help me quit, to take the taste and craving away. I have even thrown packs into the woods behind my house. All those efforts would be in vain because I would go to the store and buy another pack.

Maybe I expected Jesus to come in the flesh or at least in a dream where I could see him, and he would smack the cigarette out of my mouth and say, no more! Then I’d be delivered.

But that is not what happened…

Our Father is intentional in everything. My experience was not like others because I am an individual, and he treats me as such, a daughter. He took my ways into consideration, how I handle stress, how my mind works, and what kind of questions I would produce. He crafted the perfect delivery for Tanya. Either; I am a daughter of the Most High or an enemy. It is as clear as island water.

My cigarette represents the world; that makes me an enemy of God if I continue in it. From this realization, every time I choose a cigarette, I pick the world over God. It is now a conscious decision on my part. I can continue and allow my sin to separate me from God, or allow Him to deliver and heal me.

Yeah, so I threw out all my cigarettes. I’m done. I prefer the promises of God over wrath and damnation.

Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.

James 4:4 KJV

What are you holding on to that may keep you from submitting and going all-in? I challenge you to ask God to tell you where you are with him. For me, it is cigarettes, but for you, it may be something else. Isn’t it worth it to know for sure where we are lacking? So I will ask again, will you stand ten toes down for Jesus; are you all-in?

Heavenly Father, please bless each and every person that comes across this post with opened eyes and ears. Help them to humble themselves, pray and ask you whatever is on their heart. Help them to get a conversation started. For those who are hurting, confused, grieving, tired or just ready to give up, I ask that you draw nearer to them. Let them know how much you love them and bless them with an encounter or dream that would lead to repentance and ultimately to you. It is in the Mighty name of Jesus I pray. Glory, Hallelujah!

Peace and Blessings