Giving Up to Gain……….

On this last day of July the 7th month of the year I’ve decided to write about things I have given up or trying to give up to GAIN.  We know the number seven represents completion in Biblical terms.  July is a summer month and also represents vitality, healing, courage, radical change, freedom, boldness and spiritual growth.  I feel like this month has been all of those things and I can’t help but to expect more of the same going forward.

So, it has been on my heart to just write about attributes that I’m giving up or releasing to God.  This release hasn’t been all at once but it’s ongoing in my Christian walk.  The release must occur to GAIN more of Him in my life.

Releasing: death, depression, despair, envy, jealously, strife, bitterness, hatred, stubbornness, emotionalism, poverty mentality, gluttony, laziness, fear, impatience, rage, anger, turmoil, pride, anxiety, unmercifulness, unforgiveness, unclean spirit, impure heart, desperation, spirit of lack, entitlement, control, arrogance, idolatry, divination, prejudices, rationalization of God and His plans, and insecurity.

I’m sure I could name more but these are the things that come to mind right now.  This list sounds awful to me and it is. BUT I’m so glad I have a Savior who still loves me inspite of my me.  He is calling me and helping me to release ALL these things and more to Him so I can completely serve Him.

By releasing and serving Him I’m gaining: love, joy, peace, hope, faithfulness, mercy, grace, humility, a submissive will, dependence on a greater, higher Power (which is less stressful), happiness, a future, life now and in eternity, power, strength, courage, boldness, fearlessness, discipline, being complete and whole, self control, protection, purpose, love love love and more love.

Yes, it seems like my list of releases are greater than the gains.  But when you look at the gains in terms of what they are and their meanings, they clearly outweigh the releases.  The gains are lights…lights of and from God.  We know that light casts out darkness and Jesus is the Light.  So, even though I’m releasing and gaining daily, my gains are what keep me going and give me hope. My gains change my life and heart and give me reason to look up and say, “THANK YOU GOD FOR BEING IN MY LIFE EVERY DAY OF EVERY MONTH!”

Release to God so you can GAIN in HIM!!

Peace and Blessings until next time!