Self-Sufficiency
Self-Sufficiency
(#135 from Suffer Well Devotional Series©)
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I must become perpetually weak (not reliant on “self”) to become perpetually strong (reliant on Him alone). Weak and meek equals strong! (2 Corinthians 12:10) However, the natural inclination (ego-centered desire) is to say, “I need to be strong!” This is not the proper pattern, however. Look to the One who was spat on, bruised, afflicted, and murdered. And He endured all of these for the “joy set before Him.” (Hebrews 12:2) To redeem men, He became nothing. He did not become strong in the flesh, but mighty in the Spirit!
But, what of my “natural talents?” Aren’t I to use my gifts? The better question to ask yourself is about the motivation of your actions. Is the power you have been given to fulfill your own agendas? Here is the crux of the issue; are your agendas meant to satisfy your “self”? Dare we slowdown to be certain that our agendas line up with our Creator’s? They have always been His talents, His gifts. In the past, quick and decisive actions were taken without considering a question such as this; “Father, what do You want me to do with the abilities that You gave me?”
He took everything from me in order to perpetually sear this question into the center of my intellect. Everything that was not of Him was shaken to the core, removed! It did not need to happen that way. It did not “NEED” to happen that way! Get it? Anything not done of and by Him, fails. It will be removed; it will backfire. “The removing of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what cannot be shaken may remain.” (Hebrews 12:27)
Judgment begins in His house (the center of your conscience). Yes, that means you; before anyone else is judged, you will be judged. You will be first in line. (1 Peter 4:17) So much was given and so much is expected. Take me seriously. Stop! Slow down! Reconcile! Be repentant! Then, He promises to dine with you in a love feast of perpetual rejoicing (Rev 3:19-21). Turn back now. You will do so either way, forced or willingly. His love promises you will.
I know that everything the Almighty does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. The Mighty One does it so that people will fear Him. (Ecclesiastes 12:14)