Empty Before Full

[bluidkiti]

Empty Before Full

Psalm 16:5-6: “Lord, you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance.”

Years ago after I asked God to fill my cup, it seemed instead he ate my lunch. As I saw my dreams fade away, I worked harder to hold on, and eventually burned out. I wondered where God was and why he let it happen.

Now as I reflect back, I wonder if he could not fill my cup, because I already had it full with my personal agenda. I wanted to accomplish great things for God, but I had my own ideas. Perhaps he was waiting for me to empty the unusable contents, so he could pour in his plan.

When we admit our need, and ask God for help, it is like emptying our life cups. Emptiness, though uncomfortable, is a necessary prerequisite to filling. Our overflowing cups yield anxiety. God’s portion produces security. He draws healthy working and serving boundaries for us. And though not guaranteed earthly perfection, we are assured of a “delightful inheritance.”

Lord, I come to you with an empty cup.

My own will is not more important than what you want.

I once grabbed for “it all,”

now I want only what you plan to give me.

Joan C. Webb