Have you ever desired something life altering and knew in order for it to be attained, there had to be a profound inner transformation? We forget that transformation is difficult and often painful.
I once read a quote about growth that resonated in a spiritual matter.
For a seed to achieve its greatest expression, it must come completely undone. The shell cracks, its insides come out and everything changes. To someone who doesn’t understand growth, it would look like complete destruction.
~Cynthia Occelli
Becoming undone while breaking new soil is what being used by God is all about—complete surrender and trust. After reading when Jacob wrestles with God in Genesis 32:23-32, I uttered the words, HE Requires. I immediately reached for my pencil and notebook.
HE Requires
HE requires surrender—total surrender.
HE requires oneself to be squeezed, emptied out, and pushed up through the dirt.
HE requires this wrestling of giving one over completely in order for the old self to die.
HE will give a new identity, a new name, and a newly found purpose.
The conflict and crushing of night, forms a new person in the morning light.
After writing, I reached back for my Bible and opened it to Proverbs 3:5-6:
Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make straight your paths.
At times, I struggle with impatience and complete surrender to God’s plans. I have to constantly be on my knees asking for forgiveness because I begin to doubt—a constant war between my flesh and spirit. However, in this learning process, my faith grows leaps and bounds—going from an empty vessel to one filled with spiritual gifts from above. I am breaking new soil and have come to understand that our lives are for the Savior—for edification and honor to HIM. I want to make HIM known with the talents HE gave me.
Our Heavenly Father is a good, good Father. HIS love is boundless and filled with mercy. HE is with us in every step of our journey and has an abundance of blessings to give.