The phrase “it’s not you, it’s me” is used a LOT by people who are going to end a relationship with another person. In this type of relationship, the meaning is ambiguous and frustrates the “you” person. It basically means “I don’t want to have a discussion about my feelings or what I feel caused our relationship to fall apart.” It leaves the “you” person feeling helpless as there is nothing they can do or say as they don’t know what the problem is.
That’s the human to human side of it. And as some would unfortunately say … it is what it is.
Today, while driving home, I was thinking about the many times that I say or do something wrong and how my actions reflect poorly on the relationship I have with God.
Lifting my head to speak with Him, I audibly said “It’s not you, it’s me.” It struck me how ironic this phrase was in this instance. Everything I do has an influence for good or bad — whether they are thoughts or actions as thoughts lead to actions. And it’s never something that God did wrong but rather my reaction or lack of reaction to something.
Yet God doesn’t change. My reactions, like a spring season, fluctuate — warm and sunny or drenching with rain. But God is constant.
Yet God doesn’t sever relationships with His people but He does allow them to sever their relationship with Him. And whether they choose to walk away because of lack of interest, lack of familiarity, lack of … well, you name it. He allows them to walk away.
But from God’s lips we will never hear the words “It’s not you, it’s me” because He will never desert anyone who chooses to be safe under His care.
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.†Deuteronomy 31:6