With Open Hands
The weekly Experiencing God study continues to take us deeper into listening for, and hearing God speak. One of the chapters speaks of surrender and giving up what we hold so closely, and how to live with open hands. In order to receive our assignments from God, and God sized ones at that, it can only be accomplished if we are willing to let go of what we hold most tightly to. Jesus says "Simply put, if you're not willing to take what is dearest to you, whether plans or people, and kiss it good-bye, you can't be my disciple." (Luke 14:33 The Message)
There are times when we feel that if we let go we will become lost as a person, have no identity and no purpose - for that which we have clung to has been our false identity and purpose.
The words of Jesus are in fact a kind of dichotomy; one must hold their hands open to let go while waiting with them open to receive what God will choose to place in them thereby bringing us into an encounter with Him. Unclenching our fists may well mean letting go of fear and exchanging it for freedom.
Dear God,
I am so afraid to open my clenched fists!
Who will I be when I have nothing left to hold on to?
Who will I be when I stand before you with empty hands?
Please help me to gradually open my hands
and to discover that I am not what I own,
but what you want to give me.
And what you want to give me is love -unconditional, everlasting love.
Amen
from With Open Hands
posted by steph @ 3:02 PM
3 comments
3 Comments:
i like the 'kiss it goodbye' - it is still special, we are still allowed to wave - but we have to let it go.
so hard, but worth it!
Ah..the waving goodbye. Sigh - we do have to. Or rather, if I want what lies ahead I want the exchange that will come after I wave goodbye. And you are right that it is worth what will be placed in our still open hands, and open heart.
wow. I never read that in the Message before. That line "kiss it goodbye" resonates in my heart. I love how bobbie sees it as "still special, we are still allowed to wave". As if God understands just how hard it is, but nevertheless require it. New insight, thank you Steph.
Post a Comment
<< Home