Come to the Altar
This week we looked at how we carry the truth. We learned that our sharp edges are often armor, protecting something deep inside.
In Bethany, a woman walked into a room full of critics carrying an alabaster box. It was sealed and precious. And she broke it.
The fragrance didn't come out until the box was broken.
The same is true of us. The love of Jesus that's in you won't reach anyone while you keep it sealed up behind armor. Something has to break.
Name It
So what are your edges protecting? It may be pride, an old hurt, or the fear of being wrong. It may be the need to win every conversation.
Ask yourself honestly. Who finds me hard to be around? When I'm right, am I also kind? What wound am I guarding with my words? Is there a person I've cut who I need to go back to?
Ask the Lord to show you, and then name it.
Lay It Down
Now pray this from your heart:
"Jesus, I've been right and hard to be around. I've used the truth as a weapon to protect myself. Today I lay down my armor. I lay down my pride, my need to win, and the hurt I've been hiding behind. Break the box, Lord. Let the fragrance of Your love fill the room when I walk in. Make me safe for people to come close to. In Jesus' name, amen."
Receive
Here's what God says about a heart that lets itself be broken.
"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise." (Psalm 51:17)
God never wastes brokenness. What feels like losing your armor is really gaining His heart. A broken box isn't ruined. It's finally useful.
When you let Him break the box, the whole house fills with Jesus.
Rise and Walk
Tomorrow, go to one person your edges have hurt. Don't defend yourself. Just say, "I was wrong in how I treated you. Will you forgive me?"
Bring someone with you. Today, send tomorrow's new series to one friend and say, "I need this one. Want to do it with me?"
Coming Monday
Tomorrow we start a new FORMED series called Faith Without Fruit. You can know a lot about Jesus and still be producing nothing for Him. Leaves get noticed. Fruit gets tasted.
This week we'll stand in front of a fig tree and ask an uncomfortable question. When Jesus comes looking at my life, what does He find?
Prayer
Jesus, You came full of grace and truth. Carry the truth through me the way You carry it, and make my life a fragrance that draws people to You. In Jesus' name, amen.
Reflection
- What is my sharp edge protecting, and am I willing to let God break the box?