Devotionals for the Heart: When the Love of Christ Calls You to Surrender

Surrendering to the Love of Christ
A devotional by Dr. LaVonda McCullough

"It's not good to eat too much honey, and it's not good to seek honors for yourself."

—Proverbs 25:27 (NLT)

Have you ever found yourself craving the spotlight, yearning for acknowledgment for your efforts? I have found myself in moments of serving that I needed to pause and ask God to search my heart.

This human inclination can happen to anyone, but it often leads to emptiness rather than contentment. In the quiet whispers of our hearts, it's easy to slip into the allure of seeking recognition and praise for our deeds. Yet, as the Bible book of Proverbs wisely reminds us, true fulfillment doesn’t come from self-promotion or the pursuit of personal glory.

Joy is found in selfless service, in extending kindness without expectation of reward. I am reminded of the example set by Jesus Christ. His life was a testament to sacrificial love, a model of giving without reservation. When we emulate His spirit of generosity, we unlock unforeseen blessings that enrich not only our own lives but also the lives of those around us.

In our journey of faith, it's vital to remember that it's not about accumulating personal accolades or pursuing selfish ambitions. Rather, it's about embracing humility and allowing the love of Christ to flow through us, touching hearts and transforming lives.

Reflect on moments when you've been tempted to assert control or claim undue credit. Perhaps you've experienced the sting of disappointment when recognition didn't come as expected. In those instances, it's crucial to realign our perspective and relinquish the need for validation.

I recall planning one of my RefresHER retreats, they had gone smoothly and flowed easily with each yearly preparation. The time for preparing for what I wanted to do began to cause me anxiety and frustration. I had people asking when the registration would be ready so they could save their space. Each retreat is intimate and in a secluded location with limited spaces. The retreats were always Holy Spirit inspired, but God had no given instructions.

I kept asking God, “What’s the theme, what’s the scripture?” Silence followed with no answer. God had not given instructions. I wanted my friends and members of my IMPACT Community satisfied and not upset with my leadership. My heart posture had changed. Were my motives pure this time? Did God tell me to do this retreat or was I trying to please others?

I paused and spent time praying and fasting. It was then that I received clarity. God’s agenda was different from my agenda. I was trying to stick to a timetable that God had not ordained. I was out of order and repented. My will must be aligned with God’s will.

Seasons change and unless God has given divine instructions, I realized that I could not always know exact dates that the RefresHER Retreats would occur. Obedience to God’s plan would always be paramount for when He says, “Take my daughters away. They need to hear from me.” That was what we spoke for the first one and I trust His guidance not my “feelings” to know how each retreat is held.

Remember: True unity is found in selfless collaboration, not in individual agendas or desires for prominence. Just as each instrument in an orchestra contributes to the symphony's harmony, so too are we called to play our part in the grand tapestry of God's Kingdom.

I encourage you to let go of the illusion of self-importance and embrace the beauty of collective endeavor. Cultivate a spirit of patience and grace, allowing yourself to be molded by the loving hands of the Master Potter (God). In His gentle care, our imperfections are refined, and we emerge as radiant vessels of His grace.

As you continue your journey, may you find solace in knowing that your worth is not measured by earthly recognition, but by the boundless love of your Heavenly Father. Surrender to His embrace, and let His love guide your every step. For in Him alone will you find true fulfillment and everlasting joy.

Let’s Pray: Dear God, Thank You for allowing me to be a vessel used by You to touch the lives of others. Examine my heart and remove any impure thoughts or motives that point to me and not give You glory. I surrender my life and my life to You. In Jesus’s Name I pray. Amen.

Song of Reflection: “The Potter’s Hand” by Helen Baylor. Listen to it here. 

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Author Bio:

Dr. LaVonda McCullough is a Christian Life Coach, author, speaker and pastor who specializes in women empowerment with Christian-based approach. 

Since 2012, LaVonda has coached countless women into compete freedom, teaching them to enhance their spiritual practice. Through one-on-one Coaching, Bible Study, Prayer Walks and retreats (Joyful Journey RefresHER retreat) she teaches women how to reach the divine power within and discover their purpose.

With the foundation of her personal practice the discipline of a Daily Quiet Time, she works closely with those she coaches to develop their own intimate relationship with God. Always using a spirit-led approach, she focusing on the whole person: mind, body, and soul. LaVonda values providing a safe, loving and nurturing environment that allows those she works with to tap into the divine and commune with God themselves.

LaVonda has a deep understanding of healing through intimate relationship with God due to her personal experiences with shame, trauma, loss, and depression.

She is passionate about helping people find freedom and joy in their journey through the cultivation of spiritual practice.

Originally from North Carolina, LaVonda has traveled throughout Europe and Africa speaking about healing through the power of prayer. She has lived in Germany since 2012, where shares her life with her husband of 33 years.

LaVonda and her husband have three children.

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Connect with LaVonda:
Website: https://www.lavondamccullough.com
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