December 8 • A Full Life

The best time to be filled is when we are empty. We don’t end up diluting ourselves with half-hearted hopes and decent intentions. When we recognize that there is no good way forward for us, we can finally submit to the way forward that God is offering us. Can these dry bones live? [Ezekiel 37] Of course they can, but not by our strength or power. Before we are willing to believe this promise, we often must get to the point of admitting that “our bones are dried up, and our hope is lost; indeed, we are cut off.” [Ezekiel 37:11] God responds to this kind of desperate honesty. I will open your graves and raise you from your graves, O my people. And you shall know that I am the Lord. [Ezekiel 37:12]

 There are pains in this world that we cannot overcome, things that steal our joy and destroy our peace. None of us can escape death, but maybe something worse than death has already broken into your life. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. But I have come that they may have life and have it to the full. [John 10:10] There is an enemy who wants to see your downfall. But God is on your side. God wants to lift you out of this and fill you fully with the life that only God can give. Do not let emptiness ruin you. Allow God to fill the void with his fullness. 

 God’s promises begin to be fulfilled when we hold onto them and live right now, in the lowest and most hollow places, by hope. The certain trust that God will do what he says begins to fill our hearts with peace.

 My cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. [Psalm 23]