Giving it Up for God's Glory
AUGUST 3, 2023
Repost from December 2020:
When they finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?”
“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”
John 21:15
I’ve been thinking a lot about this chapter. God called him to a life of surrender. What is it that Jesus asks if you love Him more than? Your job? Business? A relationship? Friendships? Your comfort zone?
I remember getting into the practice this summer of surrendering everything to Jesus. I prayed every day and told Him He could have everything. It’s easy to say, but it’s hard when you actually do give those things up. Covid happened, and my photography slowed down. A lot of activities I did were canceled too as a result of covid. I lost some friendships. I’ve had moments where I’ve cried. Sleepless nights when I woke up and asked God why. I don’t understand why bad things happen, but I know that God is in control of my future. I don’t know why I get so afraid when His perfect love casts out fear. I don’t know why I get discouraged when His joy is my strength.
A book I read recently talked about the concept of surrendering. She mentioned how when we surrender things and give them up to God, He will consecrate our lives. Sometimes we can idolize or depend on things other than Jesus so He removes those things from our life. It’s not that they weren’t good things, but if they take the place of God then it is a problem. It’s hard to let go. I cling to the promise that I’ve got hope in Jesus, and that He knows what He is doing. He’s refining me and my life, and I want to see Him work. I’ve been spending more time in prayer and listening to worship music. I believe He has a plan and a purpose for everything. I believe His word is still alive and active. I believe that He can make the darkness tremble. That He sees you and cares. What are you willing to give up to God to let Him use for His glory?