I asked the Lord to examine my heart, allowing Him full access to those hidden places. I knew from the beginning where He would lead me. I was just along for the ride.

Just as I expected, He led me to my closet.

It was right where I had left it up in the back corner. It wasn’t collecting any dust because it came with a beautiful tan bag to protect it from such things. I got it out of its bag and looked at it for a moment. I knew it wouldn’t take long for the emotions to take their place and tears to start rolling down my cheeks as I reflected on the person I was when I thought I needed a ridiculously expensive purse to prove my worth.

As I opened the R.E.P (ridiculously expensive purse), I remembered the thoughts that rolled through my head as I’d tote around the purse that was big enough to be carry on luggage. “I hope people are impressed by my expensive taste.” “If they didn’t think I was important before, then they do now.” “Wow this is really heavy to tug around all day but I guess that’s what chiropractors are for.”

At that time in my life, there was no bag big enough or expensive enough to carry all of my insecurities. I was so busy buying things I didn’t need to impress people I didn’t know.

I’m not sure when it happened. The change. But I can tell you that this verse rocked me to the core.

Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming upon you. Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days. James 5:1-3 NIV

This excerpt from Jen Hatmakers “7”:

This is hard to process, so it helps to imagine standing in front of the families of my Ethiopian children, who were too poor and sick to raise their own beloved babies. As I gaze upon their hopelessness, I imagine them calculating what I’ve spent on clothing alone, realizing that same amount would’ve kept their family fed and healthy for thirty years. ~Jen Hatmaker

The Lord has gently revealed his love for the poor and given light to my eyes to see true need. (Psalms 19:8)

For example, by selling the R.E.P I am able to do one of the following: (from WorldVision.com)

• Buy school supplies for 30 children in impoverished communities
• Provide job training for 28 women
• Give care to 28 orphans
• Completely stock a health clinic

It’s not about the purse, girls. It never was. Amazing women have amazing purses and are able to minister in amazing ways. It was about my heart and my deep need to elevate myself due to insecurities. To put it frankly…I needed to raise my self worth above others with a material object.

Oh sisters, the Lord has so much to teach us about our worth to Him and His kingdom.

We must first be willing to invite Him to those hidden places to expose the untruths and lies that the world has fed us for so long.

Do not conform to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Romans 12:2

Lets get real honest with ourselves here. Is there a place you are willing to invite the Lord for healing? 

Is there a tangible object you would lay on the altar?

Peace Y’all.

By: Cara Coleman, The Front Porch Ramblings

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