God does not want your promises. Your vows to do better and improve. He doesn't want your do overs and make ups when you fail. God is not interested in your offerings no matter how much it cost.
You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. (Psalms 51:6)
The one offering God will not turn away flows from a broken heart. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. (verse 7).
One afternoon I lifted my hands to God. Tears streaming down my face I looked up at the stark, white ceiling. I prayed, "If You want me, take me, just as I am. I have nothing! I'm nothing without You, Oh God!"
It was the darkest season in my life. My wife was about to lose her job and my job was on the line. Our marriage was at a breaking point from the distress. I was very ill and lost incredible amount of weight as I couldn't hold down food. Then I got a diagnosis from the doctor of what can be a fatal disease. My sister was in a car accident which resulted in memory lost and being hospitalized. My mom's 2nd marriage was failing as her husband grew more abusive.
This time I didn't offer excuses or try to find away out or around the truth. God's hand laid heavily on me. His chastening dealt a crushing blow to my deep seated arrogance.
Then one afternoon I heard Him whisper to me, "I'm about to do astounding things, things that will even astound You." In that moment, out of a broken heart, He accepted my offering of a life that I could no longer live as before. Now, I must live only for His purposes.
When you desire God more than what you want and you have come to the end of yourself, place your heart on the altar. God will never despise those who humble themselves in His presence.
You are the most precious and cherished son and daughter of God when all you have to offer is yourself.
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