Aug. 6: Laying Down

Watching my three children grow, I have noticed a significant change. When they were younger, they were focused on having more. They wanted more candy, more toys—they were all about acquiring more. However, as they have grown, entering middle school and high school, I have seen a shift from wanting more to giving more. When something is lacking, they share what they have. Especially as an older brother, Ryan lets go and gives what he has to his two little sisters. Even if there's not enough water, they share it among themselves.

Observing this, I realized something important: Growth is about adding, but maturity is about letting go. Growth is measured by how much you have, but maturity is measured by how much you can lay down. I pray that as we walk with Jesus, we may move from the process of growth to the process of maturity. May we lay down our rights and live under His sovereign rights, knowing that this is the greatest blessing. May we lay down our pride and boast only in the power of the CROSS of Calvary that saved us. May we lay down our will, our own strength, and

even our own selfish ambitions, and turn them into His will, His strength, and His ambition that only honors God. Let us be faithful in our sanctifying journey, striving for holiness, with a spirit of laying down ourselves, and be filled with more and more of Jesus in our lives.

Blessings to you in the Mighty name of our Salvation, Jesus Christ!

Rev. Dr. Won Kim

The Lead Pastor of Thrive Church.