Empty-Handed

Last night I had a strange dream. My mother and I were leaving a high school basketball game going to go pick up something for a family friend at her beauty shop. The shop was in a sketchy part of town, but we weren’t really concerned until it was time to exit the building. There were several young men on the steps right outside the door and even though I expressed reluctance to go that way, mom told me it was okay. As we walked out the door, one cornered me and demanded that I give him all of my money. As I went to reach for it, I realized that I didn’t have my purse as I’d accidentally left it in the shop. I told him I didn’t have anything and since he could clearly see that this was the case, he just let us walk away.

When I woke up, I wondered if it had any meaning. I got my answer a few minutes ago.

Only what’s in YOUR HANDS is susceptible to theft and manipulation…not what’s INSIDE of you. The enemy’s mission statement is clear:

“The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).” John 10:10 (AMP)

By choosing to trust God WHOLEHEARTEDLY, you ensure that the enemy always leaves empty-handed when he comes for your valuables. He can take what’s external, but he’ll never have access to what’s deeply rooted on the inside. I’ve never understood how vital the fruit of the spirit is until this moment. Galatians 5:22-23 (The Message) says (I know that other translations are more definitive, but I love this translation):

“But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.”

Never attach your happiness to the tangible or things that are reachable by anyone but you and God.

“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Matthew 6:19-21

And always make sure your hands are empty. Do this by:

“Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully.” I Peter 5:7 (AMP)

All of your “stuff” is in safekeeping with Him. Even though I’m not a fan of dreams like that, I’m so thankful for this reminder of God’s necessity in my life. Pack all of your valuables inside and give your Heavenly Father charge over the rest. He’s got it…and you.