September 30, 2009
“He is driven onward through the burning crucible of dessert where holy men and prophets are cleansed and purged for God’s great purpose. Until at last, at the end of human strength, beaten into the dust from which he came, the metal is ready for the maker’s hand.” So is the narrative from the movie The Ten Commandments as Moses trudged through the wilderness, just prior to coming upon Jethro’s well in Midian.
Scripture is filled with stories of God leading men into the wilderness – trials, testings, crucibles – the refining process. We all must be refined in order to walk with a Holy God. We must all be enrolled in the School of Brokenness and Submission.
After Anne and I graduated from Bible School we moved to Winnipeg to embark on our great adventure of following Jesus in building His kingdom. That was when He enrolled me in the School of Brokenness and Submission. Over the course of seven years He led me through various trials, testings and difficulties – broken plans, smashed hopes, pains and conflicts – in order to refine and purge my character that I might be more Christ-like.
Even though Jesus told us He came that we might have life and have it abundantly, He also told us that life is found by denying ourselves, picking up our cross and following Him. If we lose our lives for His sake, we will find it.
Any man who wants to truly follow Jesus will be enrolled in the School of Brokenness and Submission. Never follow a man who doesn’t limp. Limping leaders have spent time in the School of Brokenness and Submission. This is where character is refined, pride and willfulness is broken, hearts are softened and messages are deepened. The School of Brokenness and Submission also puts a tear in our voice. You can hear arrogance and self-centeredness in a man’s words, or you can hear humility and empathy. If we do not recognize this process we can end up angry, resentful and offended with God. However, if we recognize and submit to this process we will walk in a deeper relationship with our Father and carry a greater glory – for the sake of His kingdom. The wine of His word in you will be further fermented so you are palatable to a greater number of people.
Recognize Jesus’ hand in your trials and testings – you are in the School of Brokenness and Submission for His glory.
James 1:2-4
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you now that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
Strength and courage,
David