January 21, 2013 - Letting Go
(Genesis 42:18-43:34; Psalm 18:16-36)
There is a great blessing in letting go, in releasing things.
As I read the story of Joseph, I saw many opportunities for his very soul to become embittered – sold into slavery by his brothers; convicted of attempted rape when he was only trying to do the right thing. These setbacks were perfect situational backdrops for Joseph to become resentful, but we have great reason to believe that Joseph released these things to the Lord. In fact, notice the names of Joseph's two sons – "Forget" and "Twice Fruitful" (see Genesis 41:50-52). God can operate more fully in us and through us when we release our hurts to Him.
Jacob wrestled with letting go. The love of his life, Rachel, was dead and all he had left of her to hold on to were their sons, Joseph and Benjamin. He was overwhelmed when told of Joseph's death and could not bear the thought of losing Benjamin. Yet if he did not send Benjamin to Egypt with his other sons they would all die from famine – everyone including Benjamin (see 43:1-14). Oftentimes releasing our loved ones into the hands of God brings a blessing to them and to us.
David rejoices in Psalm 18 saying, "You save the humble but bring low those whose eyes are haughty [proud; arrogant]…He [God] is a shield for all who take refuge in him" (18:27, 30). He affirms that God saves those who recognize their need for Him – those who let go of their pride and put all of their trust in God's ability to save and protect them from harm. Salvation comes when we let go our pride.
What are you holding on to that God is calling you to release?
Lord God, show us today what we need to release into Your hands.
--
There is a great blessing in letting go, in releasing things.
As I read the story of Joseph, I saw many opportunities for his very soul to become embittered – sold into slavery by his brothers; convicted of attempted rape when he was only trying to do the right thing. These setbacks were perfect situational backdrops for Joseph to become resentful, but we have great reason to believe that Joseph released these things to the Lord. In fact, notice the names of Joseph's two sons – "Forget" and "Twice Fruitful" (see Genesis 41:50-52). God can operate more fully in us and through us when we release our hurts to Him.
Jacob wrestled with letting go. The love of his life, Rachel, was dead and all he had left of her to hold on to were their sons, Joseph and Benjamin. He was overwhelmed when told of Joseph's death and could not bear the thought of losing Benjamin. Yet if he did not send Benjamin to Egypt with his other sons they would all die from famine – everyone including Benjamin (see 43:1-14). Oftentimes releasing our loved ones into the hands of God brings a blessing to them and to us.
David rejoices in Psalm 18 saying, "You save the humble but bring low those whose eyes are haughty [proud; arrogant]…He [God] is a shield for all who take refuge in him" (18:27, 30). He affirms that God saves those who recognize their need for Him – those who let go of their pride and put all of their trust in God's ability to save and protect them from harm. Salvation comes when we let go our pride.
What are you holding on to that God is calling you to release?
Lord God, show us today what we need to release into Your hands.
No comments:
Post a Comment