The Apostle Paul in his second letter to the church at Corinth wrote this: “And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.” (2 Corinthians 12:15) “Spent” is the theme of this year’s Deep Wells Parenting Conference. I think any parent can relate to being “spent”. Over the years many have said to my wife and me, “I don’t know how you do it” in reference to raising a large family. My response is often “I don’t know how either.” Normally I get a chuckle from the person or people I’m speaking to, as they know I’m kidding. The truth of the matter is that through Christ alone is the answer. I will say that my lovely wife Leslee is a huge practical part of us raising children together, but she will be the first to tell you it’s all GOD.
We are often “spent”, like Paul was. Juggling family, ministry, jobs, sporting events, family gatherings, and many other obligations and responsibilities. Marriage and child-rearing is not for the faint of heart! There are times when the boat is about to sink, the plane is about to crash, the white flag is about to be waived, but then……we lift up our eyes and remember our redemption draws near! The only way the Apostle Paul, or anyone else, can make it through ministry, marriage, parenting, and life, is if we have our eyes and hearts fixed upon Jesus Christ and the work of the cross.
Jesus poured out for 33 years to leave us an example in this life. He was always serving people with love and compassion. “He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself. After that he poureth water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.” (John 13:4-5) After this foot washing session Jesus asked His disciples if they understood what He had done. They did not understand it at that time but certainly they would later on.
Being spent equals pouring out all you have spiritually, mentally, emotionally, physically, to the point of exhaustion. This is the example of a servant and this was the example of our Lord. There are times in life when we feel as though we have nothing left to give our spouse or our children. That’s when we need to remember to look up because our redemption draws near. There are times when we want to quit; but instead, look up, your redemption draws near.
Jesus suffered tremendously before being nailed to the cross. On the cross Jesus said 7-statements, the last being: “Father, into Your hands I commend My spirit.” (Luke 23:46) All the pain, all the suffering had ended. Jesus was “SPENT”, and it was worth it. What a comfort to know we have a Savior Who can relate to being “spent”. What a joy to know heaven awaits all those who follow Jesus. We are praying for your families.
