God loves us, and every son who follows the pattern can expect to have laid
upon his life the cross of Jesus Christ. Whatever life that remains, whatever feeling
we may possess that keep us tethered to the independence of our natural life must be offered.
There is no death without suffering, neither can we be said to be dead, while there is still
any part in us which is alive. This is a prerequisite for resurrection life. That death with which
God blesses the soul, pierces even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints
and marrow. He who sees in us what we cannot see, knows full well where the blow should fall.
He takes away that which we are most reluctant to give up. Pain is only felt where there is life,
and where there is life, is just the place where death is needed. He will prove us, perhaps, by
destroying the liberty of our soul in some area. Would we dare resist? No! Suffer all things!
This working of the cross must be voluntary, and can only be accomplished to that extent to
which we are willing. I see at times that every way is shut up, and that God means to accomplish
His work in us, by cutting off every resource of the soul. There comes a time in our life…..
an appointed time that He moves sovereignly.... He has a place in His Kingdom
that we will function in throughout all eternity. He is about to perform in us something that we
have longed for but have been unable to accomplish….we may be led to a place that is not of our choosing…..
It is in this dark place where all seems lost and lifeless….just then His life….the power
of an endless life will be released!
English Standard Version (ESV)
10 for whoever has entered God's rest has also rested from his works as God did from his.
11 Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience.
12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. 13 And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. 14 Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
