Impregnating Jesus This Christmas – Determined Faith

There is a problem. My Christmas tree does not absorb water. So I got down on my knees to add more water. But it still wouldn’t sink in. What’s the problem? But I know the problem – when I bought the tree – it was not “fresh cut”.

Without cutting, there is no re-soaking of water…
Without cutting, the base is hard and closed…
Without cutting, the branches have no life…

Without cutting, the tree is not full of life but is dry and in need.

Wow, I thought. I identify with this tree.

Without the interruptions of life, I often do not imbibe the power of God. God uses what is difficult, even for my good. It is through the freshness of my need that I imbibe His life.

Cuttings are not always permitted for evil, but they open the way for God’s good.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] were called according to his purpose. (Rom 8:28)

When I am open, I receive.
When I need help, I listen and discern what God says.
When I am humble, I receive grace.

The cuts that hurt are things that God will use. Not that He caused them, but He will always use them for good. However, I don’t always need to be cut off to receive.

I can be needy, even when things are going great.
I can be humble before the Lord, even when times are the best ever.
I can desire Him, even when I am strong.
I can hope to meet His heart, even when life is busy.

This season, this Christmas, how can you call upon the fullness of God, the heart of God, and the love of Christ – even in the midst of a busy schedule? How can you welcome and immerse yourself in the heart of God when everything seems normal? What living water can fill you to touch others and be filled with God?

Subscribe to all Purposeful Faith blog posts by email – ​Click here.​