The Encarta dictionary defines knead as such: to fold, press, and stretch a soft substance such as dough or clay, working it into a smooth, uniform mass. I often think about how God has changed my heart just so - bending it, pressing it, and stretching it further than I ever thought it might go; kneading it and continuing faithfully to work out all the unmistakable kinks – the harshness, the rough edges and renewing my mind and spirit in the process - redesigning me into a usable workmanship for His purpose.
I realize now more than ever, my relationship with the Lord is so much about the heart - and dealing with my heart, He's had His work cut out for Him. : ) Jesus speaks about the heart in Matthew 6:21 saying, "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." My treasure was once riches, fame, stardom. My treasure was some of Christ and a whole lot of other things. But as He continues to walk with me, to stand by my side, to love me unconditionally, never leaving me or forsaking me, pouring out His love and mercy - my treasure has easily become, my Lord and savior, Jesus Christ. As I take notice of God’s faithfulness over and over again, I find myself renewed in my heart - kind of like the Grinch at Christmas - it's grown at least 3 sizes! I find myself renewed in my mind and I feel as though He’s been at work all of my life, handling my heart with so much care. He's been molding and kneading it ever so gently, with such patience - more and more, as I respond to the voice of His loving call. As I go forth in spite of this life’s trials, and in gratitude of this life’s victories, I’m learning to consistently pray and talk to the Lord, every single step, and I’m suddenly aware that my prayer life is changing; growing – which means my heart is too.
I’ve always prayed, praying in faith for all my personal wants and needs. But I feel a shift lately in life. Though I still pray for my needs and heartfelt desires, my desires have become more about wanting more of Jesus, and the Kingdom of God and less of me. I pray for others more fervently, those who are hurting so deeply. I pray to be a vessel for His love, for him to use me and move me. I pray about desiring His glorious purpose for my life, about spending time with Him, talking to Him, walking with Him, communing with Him. My desire is changing from my own self-filled will, to His awesome one, and for His grace, and to do things His way. He has been kneading my heart – changing my innermost thoughts and desires. I see things differently, not as quick to become disheartened, frustrated, or fearful – but ever hungering for His Word and His loving presence. It’s as if God has taken my heart captive, and I pray that He never lets it go.
I can only give God glory and praise for all the exciting things he’s doing and His faithfulness in my life. He loves us all so much and it is often in that sweet, tender place of surrender where we will find Him reworking our wants, our needs, our desires – kneading our very own hearts to be shaped and molded for our good and for His eternal glory.
I pray God's purposes will become your heart's desire as you continue in submission to Him and lose yourself in the very depths of His abundant and eternal love.
God bless,
Chana
Psalm 105:3Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD.
Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus, Hillsong United
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
look full in His wonderful face
and the things of earth will grow strangely dim
in the light of His glory and grace
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
look full in His wonderful face
and the things of earth will grow strangely dim
in the light of His glory and grace
look full in His wonderful face
and the things of earth will grow strangely dim
in the light of His glory and grace
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
look full in His wonderful face
and the things of earth will grow strangely dim
in the light of His glory and grace
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