Am I Willing…? (Reflections for Lent)
When my boys were little, I had to wrap them tightly in my arms to have their vaccinations administered. No matter how clearly I explained the importance of the shots, they refused to willingly submit to the pain, even if it would produce something good in them.
They were too little to know better, but what’s my excuse?
I know how important exercise is to my health, but I struggle with the “pain” of getting in shape.
I’ve heard often how veggies are essential to eating well, but it takes more effort for me to find tasty ways to fix them.
I understand that criticism can lead to personal growth, but it stings, so I prefer to avoid it whenever possible.
I believe surrendering my will to God is always the best, but I hesitate to give up control.
Often I know what is good for me, but don’t do it because there is discomfort in the doing. It is difficult to lay down my will, even for a better cause.
Often I know what is good for me, but don't do it because there is discomfort in the doing. Click To Tweet
So as I reflect on my walk with the Lord during this Lenten season, I have to ask:
Do I have a willing spirit?
Am I willing to relinquish my will to the One who offers life?
Am I willing to lay down my rights and pick up His righteousness?
Am I willing to lay down my rights and pick up His righteousness? Click To Tweet
Am I willing to do what God calls me to do, even when it hurts? Am I willing to love the unlovely, die to myself to live forever with Him, and bow low to be lifted up?
Am I willing to exalt, praise, and serve the Lord with the whole of who I am, not just a piece of me?
Am I willing…?
Are you?
Lord, cleanse me from my sins and make me Your willing servant. Amen.
“God, create a clean heart for me and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not banish me from Your presence or take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore the joy of Your salvation to me, and give me a willing spirit.” (Psalm 51:10-12)
Reflections: Who or what are you willing to serve?
Linking with Lisa-Jo and 5 minute Friday where a crowd writes uninhibited for 5 minutes (or a few more) on a given topic. It is a wonderful exercise in letting the words flow. Click the button (icon) to check out more posts or consider linking up yourself. Today’s word is: “Willing.”
By His grace ≈ Julie
Find hope in your real-life struggles. We'll chase it together! I am a wife; mom of 4 (including a young adult daughter with special needs); miscarriage mom of 5; author & follower of Jesus Christ. I write, edit, speak and enjoy everything outdoors.
“Am I willing to lay down my rights and pick up His righteousness?” You summed it up perfectly here.
It is what our faith boils down to, isn’t it? I appreciate your comment, Kimberly.
hi julie:) i see we were on the same page today. you were just more brief:) well, we went in some different directions too:) i came over from FMF
Thank you for visiting, Martha. Lent is a wonderful time to reflect on our walk of faith. May you experience God’s presence as you serve Him with love.
Great thoughts Julie. At our Ash Wednesday service I shared how we often really do like our sin. We know its wrong, but we think it takes too much effort to let Christ really deal with it. I pray that Jesus will create in me a life that is willing. I sure can’t do it on my own.
Your message hits home for many of us, Jon. My prayers join with yours for a willing spirit.
I guess I really did enjoy this post.l actually quoted from it during my sermon this morning. – good stuff
To God be the glory!
Great questions, Julie. The Lenten season has me asking many of the same. But I think He is happy that we are asking….those questions, I believe, draw us closer to Him. Blessings to you.
I agree, Beth. May God bless your search for the answers.
Lent is a great time to sit and ponder on these questions, not just for these 40 days but for life in general – are we willing to surrender all for Him? I think we often say we are but to truly examine ourselves is important and Lent is a great opportunity to do that
I agree, Suzanne.