One of my favorite believers to read about is George Mueller. In his journals, he talks about his pursuit of becoming "Happy in the Lord" each day. Every morning he would take long walks reading his bible until he received what I believe to be his portion of spiritual Manna. Mr. Mueller also shared how he would get himself in such a state as to not have a "will of his own" in any matter when considering a decision. He shared many other aspects of his successful Christian life but these two aspects have greatly influenced my husband and my life~ especially during adversity or when making decisions.
Though my mother and daughter call me a "Pollyanna" type personality, I can have days of deep struggle and in those times I just can't take off in the morning and come home only when I get "Happy in the Lord" ~plus forced fasting a famished family isn't funny:>).
I find great joy in yielding and surrendering all to God in the morning before starting my day. What a simple statement, easily overlooked or taken for granted.
My husband and I have been applying this principle very seriously this year of not having a "will of our own" and as we have soul searchingly and sometimes painfully yielded everything, even the smallest thought to full surrender to God, it has changed our lives completely. Along with reading scripture, we have found the daily surrender of whatever God brings to mind, giving us a new strength to that we have never known before. My husband said it is the difference between riding a bumpy road to a smooth pavement in life. For me it is like rising above the winds with a peace of mind, though storm may be raging below. The currents lift me up and gently guide me through. My emotions do not seem to waver and depression cannot tug on my heart.
I have also heard that the eye of a hurricane is very calm and still which is a realistic metaphor as we completely and fully surrender everything to the Lord. At times, it can truly feel like an Abrahamic experience as we painfully lay down the very thing we hold so dearly.
Corrie Ten Boom once stated:
~that we needed to hold everything lightly in our hands so it won't hurt so much when God has to pry it from them~
(Paraphrased)
In addition, what we both have learned (through trial and error) is that we have to apply these biblical principles consistently.
Just like the edible Manna given to the Israelites to collect in the morning~ lasting only a 24-hour period (with an extra portion for the Sabbath); it appears we are given almost a spiritual Manna for each day. Through this we have realized the truth of not being concerned for “tomorrow” and applying the Lord’s grace for today.
God's mercies truly are "new every morning". What joy are yours and mine when we fully surrender it all to him!
The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease,
For His compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.
"The LORD is my portion," says my soul,
"Therefore I have hope in Him."
Lamentations 3:22-24
