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October 18
Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight; everything is uncovered and exposed before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. — Heb 4:13 BSB
The literal translation of the phrase is “all things are stripped and stunned.” This is the meaning of the Greek words. It brings to mind the image of an athlete in the Coliseum who has fought with all his might but eventually falls at the feet of his opponent, disarmed and defeated. He lies there, unable to lift a finger in defense, utterly helpless. His only option is to throw himself at the mercy of his adversary.
This is the position God wants to bring us to—where we stop struggling, stop trying to defend or improve ourselves, and instead throw ourselves entirely on God’s mercy. This is the only hope for the sinner. And when we surrender ourselves at the feet of mercy, Jesus is ready to lift us up and give us the free gift of salvation that is waiting for us all.
This is also the greatest need of the Christian seeking a deeper, more abundant life—to come to a full realization of our own helplessness and to rest, disarmed and humbled, at the feet of Jesus. When we reach this point of surrender, He is ready to raise us up into the fullness of His grace.