Trading ashes for beauty

“Father, let me loose my clutch on everything temporal. My life, my reputation, my possessions. Lord, let me loose the tension of the grasping hand. Open my hand to receive the nail of Calvary, as Christ was opened. He though of heaven, yea, equality with God, not a thing to be clutched at. So let me release my grasp.”

Jim Elliot

 

These past few weeks have been challenging for me. I’ve discovered areas in my life that I cling to with a tight grip. I’ve been challenged to give up some of my own personal desires and learn to take whatever comes. To loose my very life to Christ, sounds so daunting. To trade desires, thoughts, heart, body – EVERYTHING for Jesus and HIM alone. I’ve been discovering just how often I try to take back those things that I give to God and how my flesh resists having a life truly poured out for His glory. No, the road is not easy. There has been quite a few rough spots and even some tears as I’ve found myself once again collapsed at his feet. Its not easy, but it’s oh so good in the end. My heart is joyful to know that every trial and every joy only draws us closer to Him! I can honestly say, “Bring it on Lord! Do whatever it takes to refine this sinful heart and make me like you!” How I do want to be like Him; to speak and act like Christ would, to feed the hungry and minister to those who need Jesus. That’s what my life should be about! Not focused on petty whims and wants but to be kingdom focused. Centered on Christ alone and striving to serve Him with all my strength, soul and mind. Who’s in?

 

 

11 Comments

  • Reply Brad July 4, 2017 at 1:19 am

    I’m in!

  • Reply Lisa Hoblit July 4, 2017 at 12:06 pm

    Many prayers! Love you!

    • Reply Crystal July 4, 2017 at 5:50 pm

      Sending love right back. ❤️

  • Reply Maureen Miller July 4, 2017 at 5:21 pm

    Jesus will always lead us to victory if we follow him! Blessings my dear!!!

    • Reply Crystal July 4, 2017 at 5:49 pm

      So true! What a good God we serve! See you in a few weeks.

      • Reply Bart Hoblit July 4, 2017 at 7:23 pm

        Thanks for sharing your heart.
        II Cor says our sufficiently is not of ourselves but only in God.
        I’d say you’re on the right track girl. When you struggle with your grip it sounds like you’re going to the right place…. the feet of Jesus. That’s the only place you’ll find sufficiently.
        You are doing better than the most of us at loosening your grip on your things and clinging to Him. Keep in up!!
        I’m in too. ❤️

  • Reply Debra July 5, 2017 at 12:34 pm

    I’m in, Crystal. Bless you for stirring my heart with this message! My heart and prayers go out to you today. Know that your godly desires are from the Lord Himself, and He is answering your heart cry even now..! Love you!

  • Reply anita July 5, 2017 at 3:35 pm

    I’m in!
    Keep “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross,…” Hebrews 12:2
    Thanks for the great reminder, Anita

  • Reply Mike Brubaker July 6, 2017 at 10:54 am

    With much love and prayers to you…we miss you all!!! Those sweet little munchkins!!!

  • Reply Lauren Bowman July 6, 2017 at 12:12 pm

    I’m in! There’s nowhere more blessed than in the center of His will! I’ve been learning this as well and can relate to the many prayers and tears over the matter. Love you!

  • Reply Mandalyn July 7, 2017 at 6:26 pm

    I’ve been experiencing so many of the same feelings lately! I’m in, and that means I’m walking alongside you, friend. ♡

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