a surrendered life

Never dive into a muddy pond, they say. You can’t see the bottom. This is true in philosophy as well. “ Don't let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ.” (Colossians 2:8).

Have you ever thought something awesome was about to happen-- only to find out it wasn't? I have. Through the ups and downs of life, there is one hope that emerges above and beyond all others: the hope in Christ. Most of us know this intellectually. I can't count the times I've given my homeschooling, my home-searching, my organizational issues to Him, like "please take it, Lord!!!" But it often works its way back into my lap. The mistake I've made is to think the "hope of Christ" means He's going to work out my issues, or at least the top three-- here's hoping. No, this is more wishful thinking. His goal is not to make me some super homeschooling, organizational wizard with a nice house. (Then I'd probably get distracted at how awesome I am.) Nope, the hope of Christ is more stable than that. This means even though I am weak and incapable of being all that I need to be, HE IS ABLE to live through me. Amen, right? Now, what does that

Separating our body from our spirit makes living out spiritual truths impossible. This problem stems from a misconception: our spirit has little to do with our daily, earth-bound life. Sure, my spirituality will help me in heaven, but this isn't heaven. Practically, how do spiritual truths apply to the here and now? All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ. Ephesians 1:3 Every spiritual blessing in Christ should impact our daily grind.  Here are three practical applications: 1. Contentment. If I live in light of this reality, despite my hectic schedule and lack of material wealth, I can be content. 2. Gratitude. It's hard to complain when I'm thankful for what Christ’s done. 3. Faith not fear. The Lord's blessed me, who can curse me? Ponder this: what are other practical ways we can live out this reality? My prayer: Lord, help me to