Holding Plans Loosely

From the June 8 reading of “My Utmost for his Highest” by Oswald Chambers,

. . .The counterfeit of obedience is a state of mind in which you create your own opportunities to sacrifice yourself, and your zeal and enthusiasm are mistaken for discernment. It is easier to sacrifice yourself than to fulfill your spiritual destiny, which is stated in Romans 12:1-2. It is much better to fulfill the purpose of God in your life by discerning His will than it is to perform great acts of self-sacrifice. “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice…” (1 Samuel 15:22).  . .

Romans 12:1-2 CSB – 1 Therefore, brothers and sisters, in view of the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your true worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.

My last post was two months ago. Since then the impending flare has been pretty constant. I have never had one last this long. I am not writing because “it’s all over, yippee!” I am still in the midst . . .

Presenting my body as a living sacrifice, my true worship to my God I love so much, requires that I hold “my” plans loosely. God’s plan for me is what is best.  God is not impressed if I choose to push my body far beyond limits to “prove my devotion” — that is actually arrogance and self-promotion.

Elisabeth Elliot said, “God will not protect you from anything that will make you more like Jesus.” Precious God, use what you must so that this will be my earnest prayer —

Psalm 34:1-4 CSB – 1 I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise will always be on my lips.      2 I will boast in the LORD; the humble will hear and be glad. 3 Proclaim the LORD’s greatness with me; let us exalt his name together. 4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me and rescued me from all my fears.