For many years, I had set myself on a sort of a self-righteous pedestal, thinking that instead of going to church to receive from God, I would go to church to give to God. Looking back now, I realize that this is another example of how the battle is to see, not to do. I recognize now, because of God's speaking to me through the ministry of our church and John Piper, that we can't give to God. Everything is His already and He holds it all together by His own power and glory. He is absolutely supreme over all of life. May His glorious name be praised forever!

What I didn't realize before that I am so grateful to realize now, is that God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him. He wants us to go to Him with open hearts, open minds, open hands, seeking to receive from Him. To receive His blessing, His conviction, His presence, His guidance and help, and an ever-increasing revelation of His power, glory and supremacy. When we crave Him far above anything this life has to offer and He is the supreme source of all joy and contentment in our lives, when we seek for and allow His Spirit to fill us and flow through us, then all that He has placed us here to do begins to happen naturally, easily, effortlessly, and with happiness. Praise God!