“O
people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he
requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with
your God” (Micah 6:8, NLT).
What
do you desire from me, Lord God? What can I offer you that is good? What can I
give you that brings you joy? There is really nothing I can bring but myself.
The gift of my life—surrendered to you without any right of ownership—is what
you desire. You continually call me to do what you instruct in your Word. For
me to do what you require, I must give up what I feel are my rights. You own my
feelings—my heart—my mind—my spirit. I have no rights. Your love purchased my
soul.
In
your Word, you instruct me in the way I should go. I long to be as a tree
planted along a riverbank which bears good fruit in season. Its leaves never
wither; it prospers. It has deep roots. Lord, I want to blossom and never
wither on the vine—to prosper in your purpose and stand strong when hardship
comes. With an obedient heart I choose to do what you deem right in each
circumstance—whether that circumstance is one of hardship or one of joy.
You
ask for mercy to reign in my heart. You ask me to love beyond the limits of my
human ability. You call me to forgive so that I might be free. For my sin—for
my freedom, you gave your life. Your mercy looked beyond my fault. Your grace
recognized my need. Your love is forgiveness. How can I not extend mercy and
forgiveness to others as you continually extend them to me? My life, offered to
you as your life was offered to me, is what you request of me. You ask me to
walk humbly in your love having no agenda—to be at rest in your will. When I am
at rest, I have your incredible peace that encompasses me. Only I can destroy
your peace. When I believe that my control is better than yours, Lord, I
destroy your peace with my pride. Pride leads to my disgrace, but with humility
I receive your wisdom. And in your wisdom, I live in your freedom.
You
chose me, Lord. So now I am free to choose your life of love and grace—I am
free to choose what is right. Now I choose to clothe myself with your tender-hearted
mercy—with your kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. I trust your heart
because you created mine. You bless me with your grace so that my life is
filled with your love and purpose. Your love heals my wounds. I have nothing to
prove. You prove yourself. I am free to love.
© 2017 Lynn Lacher
www.lynnlacher.com
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