“But I am a worm and no man …” Ps.22:6

The Lord Jesus described Himself as a worm and no man- an extreme or do I say a perfect expression of brokenness. This is contrary to natural life; a contradiction of the life of self, which is characteristically represented with a snake. Unlike a worm and a lamb, typifying humility and obedience {Ideal expression of brokenness}, snake and goat are used in the scripture to represent natural life. A life of deceit, violence, anger and stubbornness etc

When John the Baptist called his hearers “Ye brood of vipers” be was not being insulting or over-zealous, but he was properly and instructively expressing the true character of Adamic children. Even the Master called Herod “a fox”. Lu.13:31-35

Only a worm or a lamb could endure the ordeals of Calvary. Both could be crushed at will, without resistance or an abuse and of course without any hope of vengeance or a curse. Theirs is a life without bitterness and cruelty; a life of complete abandon to the will of their master.

In life, they seek peace and harmony, and though they be not mighty, yet they draw the attention of all. They are the nearest friends of all. They neither initiate, nor support quarrels and divisions; and selfishness is completely absent from their lives. Such is the life of brokenness.

Not so with the self-life of a viper. Strike her once, and aloof she hisses and strikes back with more poisonous blow intent to kill. She recognizes neither friends nor foes; once she is aroused, vengeance is sure!
She does not crave company, but craves her own niche and executes her self-will. Pride and deceit are with her. She may lie low and wriggles like a worm but her fangs are poisoned and ready. Bitterness and jealousy are in her heart and her tongue knows no rest. She is never at peace.
She craves authority and dominion fully aware of her ugliness and limitations. Therefore, she is cruel. She knows neither obedience nor submission therefore she has no master. She is a spoiler and has no compassion. She is arrogant and unrepentant. This is the life of unbrokenness.

Thus, the Master laid as one of the conditions of discipleship, the renunciation of this monster called self. Lu.9:23 cf Rom.7&8; and further taught that no man could lead in His kingdom until he has successfully dealt with the issue of self. Lu.22: 24-30; Mk.10: 35-45.
Therefore, let us examine ourselves and make amend that we might be able to make progress in our heavenly calling.

It is only upon a broken (and crucified) spirit that the Dove would dare to perch. It can never alight on a carnal sinful flesh or else, the snake will tear it to pieces. That is why for many of you, the only experience you can boast of in your long years of being a Christian is the initial evidence of speaking in tongues. And there is no sign of the Spirit’s multiple virtues and goodness upon your soul. There are no fruits or even gifts to show that you ever had a touch. This may explain why so many of you are deeply engrossed in worldly pursuits and in acts inimical to heaven. Luk.3.21-22; 4:1-14; Rom.8:14.

But for the broken man, the Spirit, the Dove is the greatest companion. It can rest, it can lead, and it can empower and even drive him without any resistance. This is the portion of every spiritual man.
LET THIS MIND BE IN YOU, WHICH WAS ALSO IN CHRIST JESUS… {Phil 2: 5-11}

 

Now, what is the link?
What is the link between Brokenness and Spiritual Growth?
God’s purpose: Isa.2:2-3; Mal.1:11 cf Matt.24:14
Hindrances to this purpose: Isa.2:11-17; Jer.50:6,7
God’s standard. Isa.57:14-15; Isa.66:1-2; Phil.2:3-12; 1Jn.2:6

For effective study and practical understanding, we will illustrate our topic by character study-method. We shall do this by comparing unbroken characters with broken individuals to draw clear lessons from their life experiences and see God’s approval ratings upon them. Thus, your own life will form the definition of this topic.

Unbroken Characters
Esau.
Profane Heb.12:16-17
Trifles with spiritual things; Gen.25:29-34
Trifles with sin; Gen.26:34-35; 27:46:28:6-9

Saul the king
Stubbornness 1Sam.13:8-14
Worldliness 1Sam.15:9, 17-23
Envy 1Sam.18:5-9

Gehazi
Insensitivity 2Ki.4:25-37
Outwardly 2Ki.4:29-31
Covetousness 2Ki.4:20-26

Broken Characters
Samson
Submission Judges.16:28; 15:9-14, 18-19; 16:15-17,21-30

Gideon.
No value on personal fame/achievements. Judges.7:24 – 8:3

David
Repentance 2Sam.11 &12
Obedience 2Sam.19:1-10
Takes no advantage of any man 2Sam.23:13-17

Instructions
We can summarize our lessons viz.
Signs of unbrokenness
Pride
Lying
Talkativeness
Outward show
Much emphasis on personal achievements and charisma, with less genuine submission to the over ridding power of God’s grace.

All these are proofs of immaturity. So an unbroken Christian is an immature believer and a dangerous minister if he ever becomes one. He will end up like Aaron who had no personal dealing with God though he be High priest. All his instructions were communicated externally and circumstantially.

An ordinary unbroken believer will end up like Reuben who though a child of covenant was never able to enjoy the privileges of his inheritance “thou shall not excel.” Gen.49:3,4 “Be not like a mule …” Hos.10:12

Marks of Brokenness
- Truthfulness
- Humility
- Meekness
- Love
- Boldness

A broken Christian shall have that inner peace and personal assurance of salvation that breathes out unselfishness, compassion and humility, iced with boldness. Ps.35:13,14
These are marks of healthy spiritual growth.

There is no brokenness in regular “Yes sir”, “Yes ma …” but there is brokenness in readily acknowledging one’s fault and personal limitations. Eph.2:8-10, this is the first step to spiritual maturity.
A broken Christian is a prayerful Christian, and a prayerful Christian is a growing healthy Christian. A broken man is in the state of heartfelt surrender to the will of God (which many Christians today lack). He does not fret even in trouble; neither does he strive for a life of ease and comfort: Rom.5:1-5; 2Cor.1:3-12; 1Pet.2:19-23; 1Jn.2:6,14-17
All these cannot be done by the will of the flesh but by the power of God as we walk in obedience to His Holy Spirit.

The ultimate aim of a broken man is the “crucified life”.
Gal.2:20
Gal.6:12-18          Jn.12:2

And the step to the crucified life is Discipleship (this must be thoroughly taught for a balanced Christian growth, and effectiveness in service).

When a man attains the life of brokenness, he is at peace with God; under subdued emotions, and a willing spirit. Isa.57:14-15; Ps.37:19,31
The most sublime sum of this and its spiritual value is vividly illustrated by the life of JACOB later ISRAEL and JESHURUN. Isa.41:14
Such were the spiritual splendor of this broken, poor shepherd Patriarch that even the most powerful king Pharaoh of Egypt coveted his blessings.
cf. Gen.27:3-36; 32:9-12, 24-32; 35:1-20; 46:1-7; 47:7-10; Heb.11:21

Brokenness is not an automatic life experience, but a gradual life process.