When God initially moved me across the country, stripped me of everything and began a life-changing work in me, he showed me a clear picture. He was after my heart and wanting to purge any false identity. He showed me that the average Christian has a shelf, Jesus may be on it but so are many other things.

For example, success, money, sports, our spouses, our children or our comfortable lives are on the very same shelf. In my case he showed me, my identity was wrapped in my relationships such as my family and friends. It was as if I was telling Him, “Jesus, I love you. You’re my favorite. Just don’t take my people.” He responded with, “Oh really? How about I take your people. I must be the ONLY thing.” Whoa.

Clear the shelf

The process of surrendering all won’t be comfortable. He began clearing the shelf by moving me so far away from that identity, where He was able to have my undivided attention. Allowing God to do whatever it took and whatever He needed, has changed me entirely. Sure there were many times I wanted to give up but His supernatural grace keeps me faithful.

We sing at church, “Jesus, you’re all I want.” Those “take it all” songs are catchy but do we really mean them? Living those songs out is what he requires and the definition of a Jesus follower.

Jesus tells His disciples if anyone would come after me, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever would save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit you if you gain the whole world and forfeits your soul” –Matthew 16:24-26

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