I feel a stirring within this generation. There’s an air of anticipation of a life before us where we simply do life differently. We see the world around us, the great need, and we want to make our individual mark on the world. I call this stirring the need to RISE UP.
But what if we looked at this air of anticipation in a new, fresh, radical way? What if we determined that instead of making our own way in the world, instead of making ourselves famous, our goal in life was to make Jesus famous?
Source: the-electric.blogspot.com via Sarah on Pinterest
Rise up and revere Jesus as King of every part of our life.
Rise up and live out Truth.
Rise up and speak Truth.
Rise up and do hard things.
Rise up and make tough decisions.
Rise up and let our life point to the One who deserves all fame and renown.
As I’ve purposed to live out this heart stirring, I find that I must prepare daily to rise up. It is not in my true nature to make Jesus famous. My default thinking is ‘how can my name or my agenda take precedence?’ Because of this fleshly side of my heart and mind, my preparation for rising up every day is to GO LOW before Him.
This takes on a physical posture as I kneel in prayer. And, if I’m really ego heavy, I must come face down to the floor. John the Baptist said it beautifully: He must increase, but I must decrease. {John 3:30}
~He must increase in my heart as my King and ultimate authority.
I must decrease and relent my stubborn ways of running my own life.
~He must increase in my mind as I praise Him in every situation.
I must decrease in my complaining and whining throughout my day.
~He must increase in my LIFE as I look to please Him alone in everything I do.
I must decrease as I evaluate the ways I spend my time and look for happiness.
So for us to prepare for this life movement, to rise up, I encourage you to decrease.
It will be uncomfortable to get on our knees before the Lord in a low posture as we humble ourselves to His purpose and His fame. This is also exciting as we set our heart in a place that makes us ready to allow Him to work through us as we RISE UP!
One generation shall commend your works to another,
and shall declare your mighty acts.
On the glorious splendor of your majesty,
and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.
They shall speak of the might of your awesome deeds,
and I will declare your greatness.
They shall pour forth the fame of your abundant goodness
and shall sing aloud of your righteousness. (Psalm 145:4-7 ESV)
What are your thoughts on going low before Him so you can rise up and make Jesus known in the world around you? Share your thoughts on how you can go low today as you determine to rise up and make Jesus famous.
By Sarah Martin, LIVE IT OUT!
Leave a Comment
Lisa says
Thanks for this. Too often our world encourages us to promote ourselves. Going “low” is never going to be easy; or popular, and it’s hard! One thing I do is to make sure I start each day with God and His word…. It’s a way to get my eyes focussed on the right spot before the day gets going. And it’s always worth it!
Sarah Martin says
Heck yeah, Sister! Great way to start your day!!
Lisa says
Going low shows humility. The opposite of humility is pride. There is so much pride in the world today. This is an awesome reminder to get on our knees and worship the one that is above us all.
Johnna Fussell says
Simply Thank you for this reminder. Today I will take John”s words as my guide.
Beth Williams says
Sarah,
Such wise words from a young person. I try to go low daily–just do what I’m asked and do it ALL for HIS Glory! I don’t crave worldly fame, fortune or men’s applause. I just want Him Glorified daily!
Tamerriell says
What a great call to action!!!!!! Our generation has got to get busy. Were losing the ones behind us.
Tabitha says
I needed this today. I just prayed this morning for God to speak to me through His word, and this most definitely did! It is hard to become less and make Him greater in our lives. But what a beautiful life it will be with Him getting all the glory! I certainly don’t deserve the life I live. It’s all from His Grace!