The Marks of a Crucified Life: Humility, Helplessness, and Restfulness
Murray presents a contrarian view of spiritual maturity by identifying the marks of a 'crucified life' as humility, helplessness, and restfulness—qualities often undervalued in a culture that prizes self-sufficiency and achievement. He argues that true spiritual growth begins when believers embrace their utter dependence on Christ, saying, 'I am a crucified man, I am utterly helpless, every breath of life and strength must come from my Jesus.' This helplessness is not weakness but a profound surrender that allows Christ's power to work through them. Similarly, humility arises from recognizing one's unworthiness and the need to be 'nothing at all' so that Christ may be exalted. Restfulness, the third mark, comes from fully trusting in God's sovereignty and relinquishing the need to strive.