My Gethsemane Battle

A couple weeks ago I was privileged to attend a Ladies' Retreat. The campground was gorgeous. The rooms were more than comfortable. The food was tasty. But I didn't really attend for the comfort, although, it was very peaceful. I enjoyed reconnecting with friends, as well as finding new friendships.

I attended each session which was held in an old chapel, gorgeous! They even rang the church bells. But the first several sessions, I came away feeling like I must have missed something. Have you ever done that? Just feeling like I didn't really connect to the subject at hand. There was nothing wrong with it,  I just felt disconnected.

But God was waiting for me, at the last session. Oh yes, and waiting He was!! The speaker said something that we all need to go through Gethsemane. Of course, that perked my ears. And what she said next has stayed with me.  What experience did Jesus have in Gethsemane before His arrest? He prayed. He prayed harder and more sincerely than I ever have, and I am thinking more than anyone ever has. There are seven words that culminated His prayer, "Not my will, but thine be done."

I need more times in Gethsemane, crying out "not my will, but thine be done." Letting go of that which is trying so hard to keep me from victory! Those things which rob me of my joy. Letting go of that which is a selfish desire. Letting go of the easy way out or the easy road to travel.

You may ask "What is God's Will?" There are 6 things that for sure are His will, and I believe if we follow this 6 things, everything will fall into its proper place. But the battle must be fought in Gethsemane. If we don't let go, and let God...we will not walk in His will.

 His will: (not original with me...Pstr Shawn)
1. To be Saved
2. To be Sanctified
3. To be Spirit-filled
4. To Suffer for His sake
5.  To be Submissive to His will
6. To be Thankful in all Things

To Suffer and be submissive really hits the selfish part of our hearts. But then, we need to cry out "Not my will but Thine be done."

Today has been difficult. But now at the end of the day, I know there is victory after Gethsemane. But I must be submissive to His will.

His Grace Abounds
Barb