“As we mature God asks us to release everything. This is not another set of losses; this is utterly relieving. Finally, our entire being can be o ne with God. From there we can sort the rest out.”- John Eldredge
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”- John 15:5 (NIV)
John Eldredge concludes Chapter 13 of Get Your Life Back as he extends the concept of benevolent detachment. One day, while in prayer, John states that Jesus upped the ante on this practice. Hence, Jesus added the phrase, As if you were done. Give everyone and everything to me as if you were done.
However, like hundred of giant spruces torn up by the spring runoff on the Snake River, the runoffs of this world scatter and uproot us. Consequently, John stresses, we must do more than simply talk about how wonderful union with God can be. In other words, that we should make union a priority. That, the author points out, can remain theory. Because we need to deal with what’s damaged our union with God.
Certainly, all forms of suffering and chronic disappointment erode union. If we’re not careful. Above all, while suffering withers our union, trauma damages it. As a result, an actual breach forms. And, on cue, Satan’s right there to inject poison, feelings of abandonment, and even betrayal by God. Therefore, it’s essential that we act with intention to seek restoration of our union with God.
So, John stresses the importance of asking God to heal our union with Him on a regular basis. Especially after going through trauma.
In conclusion, the author offers this reminder:
“Remember God works gently. He doesn’t answer trauma with a forceful response; he heals through gentleness. Sometimes it can feel dramatic. . . . Most of the time the union of our soul with God is something that is very gently and life-giving. Therefore, we have to be gentle and tuned-in to be aware of it.”
Today’s question: What makes it hard for you to release everything to God? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “A quiver of gentle reminders”
