Oh, the bravery of God in trusting us! Do you say, “But He has been unwise to choose me, because there is nothing good in me and I have no value”? That is exactly why He chose you. As long as you think that you are of value to Him He cannot choose you, because you have purposes of your own to serve. But if you will allow Him to take you to the end of your own self-sufficiency, then He can choose you to go with Him “to Jerusalem” (Luke 18:31). And that will mean the fulfillment of purposes which He does not discuss with you.

We tend to say that because a person has natural ability, he will make a good Christian. It is not a matter of our equipment, but a matter of our poverty; not of what we bring with us, but of what God puts into us; not a matter of natural virtues, of strength of character, of knowledge, or of experience— all of that is of no avail in this concern. The only thing of value is being taken into the compelling purpose of God and being made His friends (see 1 Corinthians 1:26-31). God’s friendship is with people who know their poverty. He can accomplish nothing with the person who thinks that he is of use to God. As Christians we are not here for our own purpose at all— we are here for the purpose of God, and the two are not the same. We do not know what God’s compelling purpose is, but whatever happens, we must maintain our relationship with Him. We must never allow anything to damage our relationship with God, but if something does damage it, we must take the time to make it right again. The most important aspect of Christianity is not the work we do, but the relationship we maintain and the surrounding influence and qualities produced by that relationship. That is all God asks us to give our attention to, and it is the one thing that is continually under attack.

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August 4, 2011

Journal Entry for Today-JDV

My value comes from the Lord. This is a lesson I can readily embrace; that I must reach the end of my value so the true value of God can shine through.  Seeing myself spiritually bankrupt allows me to let go of any notion that I have been chosen by God because of my value. I don’t know why You chose me Lord, but I am grateful that You have.

And God says…”I chose you before the world began, and My ways are not for your understanding. But understand that I love you beyond measure, and ….

I am with you always, even until the end of the age. Trust in Me with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding and I will make your paths straight. Seek first the kingdom of God (Jesus) and all that you need; material goods, spiritual and emotional stability, and care and concern for others will be given you. Seek Me in all you do and live a life of value and hope. You can begin by finding the kingdom of God, that is Jesus, fresh every morning.”