BLESSING IN EMPTYING OURSELVES

There were saints in the Old Testament period also who emptied themselves of their cherished belongings and gave those whom they loved dearly.

Abraham was called upon to consecrate his home, his country and his relatives, and sometime later, to consecrate his beloved son Isaac also. He obeyed God and became a blessing to many. Joseph had to give up his beloved father, his home, and his country, and finally he lost even his good name. As the Lord wants to give all of Himself to us forever, He may test us by taking away the things or people we cherish, at least for some time. When He does, will it affect our close walk with God? Will it drive us to despair?

Our emptying or consecrating ourselves benefits us and in turn, we also become a blessing to many. "Though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich" (II Cor 8:9). When we become poor by consecration, we make others rich, that is, rich in faith, grace and in many other blessings. It is no wonder then that Jesus said that if any man wanted to serve Him, he should hate and forsake his all (Lk 14:26,27,33).

In these last days the Lord is calling many to leave their all and follow Him - so that He may use them to richly bless others. Child of God, can you hear the voice of the Lord? Will you say, "Here am I, Lord! Use me."

- Late Pastor T.U.Thomas, in "Morning Manna"