[et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text]Many times in life we look back on certain periods and what we see in the rear view mirror is a time of growth. When we go through those times it doesn’t seem like growth but pain and even sorrow at times. It could be from the loss of a loved one, problems in a relationship, or even a time of brokenness. The poem titled “Abandoned” is one of my favorite poems.
During one of the most difficult times of my life, I was struggling and searching for direction in almost all aspects of my life. I can remember the evening when I was reading in Proverbs and then while browsing the pages of a book ran across this poem. After reading it the first time I had to read it again and then again…finally with tears streaming down my face I moved from the bed to my knees and it was there that my life made a drastic turn…He was waiting for me to be utterly abandoned.
It is my hope and prayer that you will be blessed and challenged to go deeper in your walk with the Lord.
Utterly abandoned to the Holy Ghost!
Seeking all His fullness, whatever the cost;
Cutting all the moorings, launching in the deep
Of His mighty power—strong to save and keep.
Utterly abandoned to the Holy Ghost!
Oh! The sinking, sinking, until self is lost!
Until the emptied vessel lies broken at His feet;
Waiting till His filling shall make the work complete.
Utterly abandoned to the will of God;
Seeking for no other path than my Master trod;
Leaving ease and pleasure, making Him my choice,
Waiting for His guidance, listening for His voice.
Utterly abandoned! No will of my own;
For time and for eternity, His, and His alone;
All my plans and purposes lost in His sweet will,
Having nothing, yet in Him all things possessing still.
Utterly abandoned! It’s so sweet to be
Captive in His bonds of love, yet wondrously free;
Free from sin’s entanglements, free from doubt and fear,
Free from every worry, burden, grief, or care.
Utterly abandoned! Oh, the rest is sweet,
As I tarry, waiting, at His blessed feet;
Waiting for the coming of the Guest divine,
Who my inmost being will perfectly refine.
Lo! He comes and fills me, Holy Spirit sweet!
I, in Him, am satisfied! I, in Him, complete!
And the light within my soul will nevermore grow dim
While I keep my covenant—abandoned unto Him!
– Author Unknown[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]