I HATE constraints.

Did as a kid.  Still do.

Can you relate?  Let’s talk about it.

The kite tugged against the string in Johnny’s hands. The breeze carried it higher and higher.

The boy squinted to see the kite’s Superhero logo against the clouds, lit up by the setting sun. He and his kite had a connection. He could almost hear his favorite Superhero: “If I didn’t have this tail holding me back, I could climb to infinity and beyond!”

Suddenly, as if in answer, the kite’s tail ripped off and fluttered away in the breeze. But the kite – once stable, majestic – whirled, spun, and plummeted to the ground, hopelessly broken.

So… what’s holding you back?

Let’s look at what might be “holding you back” for a positive purpose.

Your job? Remember, the kite’s tail doesn’t actually restrain the kite’s freedom. Rather, it provides the best angle of attack to allow the kite to soar safely on the wind. Are you soaring? Or, maybe, about to…once you rise above the turbulence close to the ground?

I knew an officer who came kicking and complaining to Robins Air Force Base. He wasn’t happy and let everyone know it. Here’s what he didn’t know.  I heard later that headquarters had hand-picked him (!!) for what should have been a short assignment at Robins. It was meant to result in a below-the-zone promotion and a dream assignment! Too bad he didn’t see the big picture. Best I recall, he was passed over and retired at 20 years.

My absolute “worst” Air Force job suddenly – literally overnight – became the most rewarding task of that career. I had a unique impact on my organization’s success, and it positively affected my remaining twenty-two years.  It also helped in the radio ministry that became my full-time work for twenty-one years, and helps me even today!

Things can change!  Remember:  The most important job you’ll ever have is the one you have right now.

A physical constraint? I can’t imagine what you may be going through. But I’ll share just one name: Joni Eareckson Tada. By God’s grace, she soared above the bitterness and limitations of her quadriplegia. Her ministry has helped hundreds of thousands worldwide and encouraged millions more:  http://www.joniandfriends.org/

Old age? I’ve had the opportunity to share this at several speaking engagements. If you’re a Christian: “When you can’t do anything but pray, your greatest ministry may have just begun.”

Constrained because of a promise, commitment, or marriage vow? “If only I was free!” Not!  Remember, the grass is always greener over the other person’s leaking septic tank. If you’re a caregiver, others are watching. One of them may one day care for you! That marriage that’s “holding you back” may be building character, integrity, or keeping you from really messing something up! Jimmy and Karen Evans were both ready to bail. Sure glad they didn’t: https://xomarriage.com

Foundational Principle:  We don’t have the “higher perspective” to see how everything fits together, or the wisdom to know how it will all play out. So do the best you can, with the best attitude possible. Be kind, and patient, and focus on helping others while you wait.  Remember, if God wants to build a weed, it takes a few days.  A mighty oak?  Decades.

Here are some solid Biblical foundations that apply (click to read, then your back arrow to return here):
Colossians 3:23-24
Romans 8: 28, 29
Phil 4: 4 – 8
1 Thes 5: 16-18

For a profound scriptural deep dive, read 2 Corinthians 12:2-10. It’s the Apostle Paul’s account of his so-called thorn in the flesh. Paul came to realize God’s purpose (verse 9): “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Paul’s response continues in verse 9: “Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” (NASB)

The ultimate example of constraint? Jesus “…emptied Himself by taking the form of a bond-servant and being born ni the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death: death on a cross.” (Philippians 2:7-8)

Oh, remember my “bad” assignment? Here’s the rest of the story.  Back around 1981 or so, I humbly told a church accountability group that in my opinion, I was failing at my job and desperately needed their prayers and God’s intervention, so I could honor Him in my position.

The next day, Word Processors arrived. Remember them? I volunteered to set them up, then learned and taught others how to operate them. I developed an application that reduced a two-week turnaround to just two days, with fewer people. It also increased quality and consistency. My “App” remained in use for years. And it was fun to develop!

A “bad” assignment that held me back? No, it held me in the right “angle of attack,” to soar.

Thoughts? Comments? Love to hear from you!

Blessings!

Bill