Unexpected Joy: Finding True Purpose in SurrenderSample

Life to the Full

We can’t experience the full benefits promised by God unless we recognize our limitations, surrender to the Holy Spirit, and rely on his strength. Our efforts are simply not enough on their own. We’re not really depending on the Spirit unless we willfully embrace God’s New Testament commands that, without exception, are intended for our good.

The deep longing every human being has for hope is found in the person of Jesus. All of God’s promises contribute to the most important outcome for a believer: freedom. The apostle Paul, writing to the believers in Galatia, reminded them, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery” (Galatians 5:1).

Followers of Jesus are meant to live in freedom. Freedom from the anxiety of performance, the stress of comparison, or the need for approval. Freedom from doubt, shame, and fear. Freedom to choose not to sin, and more importantly, freedom from the ultimate penalty of sin. Freedom to live with purpose. Freedom to experience God’s love and complete joy.

If you call yourself a follower of Jesus and this promised freedom doesn’t fire you up, then perhaps you should ask yourself, “why not?” We all need to decide if Jesus and the life he has promised are enough, and better than what the world is offering. That is the big question for you now. What will you choose?

Your works or the finished work of the cross?

Your performance or his grace?

Your fruit or his fruit?

Your will or his will?

Your strength or his strength?

Your perspectives or his perspectives?

The wisdom of the world or the wisdom of Scripture?

Independence or dependence on him?

Something to Remember:

To those who walk in the Spirit, God has promised a life full of his fruit, his hope, complete assurance, and total freedom from the snares of this world and the schemes of the enemy.

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We hope this plan was helpful to you. You can read more from Kelly Miller in his book, Unexpected Joy, available here.