Note: This paritcular writing was inspired by work of Jim Branch, Being With Jesus. The Holy Spirit has used him tremendously to impact the lives of many. My hope is that what the Holy Spirit has stirred up within through Jim’s work brings light to your life.
How many times in our lives do we cry out to God with the afflictions of our hearts. In this prayer, we fear and ask that our will be done, clinging to the life and circumstances we know. When that lifted prayer does come to fruition, as we see it, we despair and have thoughts like, “Did I pray hard enough.” In our heaping up of prayers, we often miss Jesus saying “Do not fear, only believe.” (Mark 5: 36) In God’s time, according to His will, our prayers will be answered. God’s answer is more spectacular than anything we could ever imagine. That which was thought was dead, is brought to new life. In order for us to believe and surrender, we must be brought to the end of ourselves. Forsaking our own strength, and simply relying on the promises of our Lord. He promises to never forsake us. He promises Jehovah Jireh, the Lord provides. In it all, we must surrender our hearts fully to our loving Father.
In the current climate of the world, fear and despair come easy as our minds think of illness, lack, and loss. The Apostle Paul reminds us that we are conquerors in all things. (Romans 8:31-39) Today’s scripture is working in my heart, saying surrender. To shift my focus from me, to the hurt and needs of others. To serve the Lord and others by being salt and light. That means I will be doing that way beyond my current capacity in ways that I never imagined. Rather than clinging to way things were, I am called to venture out into deep waters. To cast my net, in a new way. God promises prosperity in this venture, not for me, but for His Kingdom.
O’ Lord, by the power of the Holy Spirit, align my heart fully with your Kingdom. The harvest is plenty, but the workers are few. Transform me into the image and likeness of your Son Jesus, so that you may share the Good News through me. May your will be done in all things. This I pray in Christ’s name. Amen!
The Rusty Kettlebell 