Collaborate with God

Trying to do things for God doesn't work. The spiritual life is not about gaining knowledge, then going out and applying it on our own. It is about collaborating with God. It is rooted in humility, the recognition that I cannot live a holy life of myself. It is about relationship, allowing God to change me in each moment, remaining united to him, following his will by drawing upon the strength he supplies. He both calls and provides. We must trust and follow.

And it is not a one-time decision; it is a daily decision, a continual directing of the will toward God. In the joy, and in the sadness; in the strength, and in the weakness; in the glory, and in the failure; in the excitement, and in the routine. God is present in each of these moments, and he is calling us to him. We must take up our cross and follow him. But his yoke is easy, and his burden light. How great the solace in our God. How tender his love toward us. God holds no esteem for the mighty, but reveals himself to the one who fears his name.

God, allow me to die to myself, for I cannot do it without you. Teach me to know your will, and to fulfill it with love. Amen.