An Open Hand

An open hand speaks many things. I believe that God has called us as disciples to live lives with an open hand. Living with an open hand may seem simple, yet it is learning to live at a much deeper level than we could ever imagine. There is something that I have discovered about living life with an open hand, and that is that when we have an open hand it is a symbol that we are relinquishing control.

Control seems to be one of the paramount issues that I deal with as well as you. We spend most of our lives trying to control everything around us. As simplistic as it may seem, the fact of the matter is, as long as I am in control it means that God is not. It is so easy to trust in God when it appears that His plan fits your own plan, but when God vears off of the plan that we have for ourselves that is when we begin to tighten our grip on things around us. Learning to release even in the midst of tumultous time takes discipline, yet it is learning to live with an open hand that ensures the flow of blessing will continue.

Blessing flows to those that have an open hand. The only way that you can give is also the only way that you can receive. This equation is typically not one that we like, yet it is impossible to get around. If we want to receive,we must be willing to give. The scriptures teach in Luke 8:38 ... for with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. There is a correlation between our giving and our receiving. We have all heard of the Dead Sea that stagnates because it receives water, but it does not flow and give and therefore the water is not fit for drinking. Our lives should very much be like a conduit of the good things that are given to us.

The scripture says, it is more blessed to give than to receive. This concept seems so difficult for us to understand. It is not difficult to find someone that is excited about receiving, but it is a rare treasure to find someone that is thrilled about giving. Those that have learned the beauty of giving have learned the value of living life with an open hand!

What are you trying to control today by tightening your grip? How can you choose to release your grip to trust in God in your current situation? Do you have a PHD in receiving, but an elementary education in giving? What can you do today to open your hand to become an intentional giver?