Day 8 - Joe Kwak
Is there a specific Bible passage or verse that comes to mind in the context of “Less of Me and More of Him”?
Hebrews 12:1-2 “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.”
Philippians 1:6 “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”
Hebrews 12:1-2 has been an encouragement to me as I think about this year’s theme, “Less of Me and More of Him.” Growing up in a traditional Christian household, there has always been the pressure to perform and live up to expectations. Due to this background, there are still seasons in my life where I find myself reverting to my own strength to maintain my faith. However, Philippians 1:6 reminds me that Jesus started my walk of faith and he will finish it. Therefore, I am encouraged to surrender my legalistic burdens and to trust in the finished work of the cross. I hope I go through this lent season continuing to decrease myself and allow God and his righteousness to increase.
Briefly explain which areas of your life you find most difficult to surrender to Christ.
The most challenging area in my life to surrender is my desire for stability and success. Due to being a recent college graduate, surrendering the pressure to find a job and move out has been an ongoing struggle these days.
Share the areas of your life that have shifted from self-centeredness to Christ-centeredness.
Although I have difficulty surrendering my desire for control over my life, God has been revealing His heart for those around me. Through recent conversations I had with fellow church members, coworkers, and family, God continues to reveal how much brokenness there is around me. This has helped shift my focus from my problems and desires to the needs of the people around me. In these moments, God has convicted me to listen and pray for the people around me, both believers and nonbelievers.
What are some practical ways you can display Christ to those around you?
I find serving solely to please God the best way to practice “Less of Me and More of Him.” One practical way I’ve been applying this theme is to go the extra mile without looking for praise from people. Whether at home or work, whether doing chores at home or helping my coworkers by keeping our workstations clean, I try to serve others as best as I can with the desire to please God. Another practical way is to have conversations with the people around me and to prayerfully contend for God to move in their lives. I hope that I can continue to decrease myself this year so that God will increase more in my life.