Empty

Empty

The type of individual God desires us to become stands in stark contrast to the impulses of the flesh and the societal norms ingrained in us since childhood. We are called to relinquish our self-centered tendencies entirely. If, when faced with judgment, criticism, or offense, we instinctively react with a need to defend ourselves, it reveals that we are still walking in the ways of the flesh.

God serves as our ultimate judge, advocate, and protector. What significance, then, does the opinion of others hold? Why must we persist in advocating for our own interests and asserting our rightness? Though we may vigorously champion our "rights," before God, we possess no such entitlements. All belongs to Him, and our path entails learning obedience and humility, submitting to both God and authority figures. To truly empty oneself means transcending the need for self-defense, embracing selfless love, and extending generosity to others.

Love, at its core, embodies patience and kindness. Patience manifests as our response to adversity, demonstrating a willingness to forgive and extend mercy, even in the face of challenges. By exhibiting patience, we demonstrate love and shed the burdens of self-interest.

Emptying oneself involves surrendering desires, rights, opinions, and judgments before God, embracing obedience over personal agenda. Struggles often arise when we insist on acting according to our own desires, thoughts, opinions, or judgments.

In moments of heightened emotion, it's crucial to introspect and discern whether our actions aim to prove or improve.