on Apr 21st, 2008Am I really that serious?
I do a fair bit of reading. Nothing like some people would do - such as reading Biblical commentaries for recreation - but I do read a lot. I sift through articles on line, read ‘Daily Bread‘ (devotional from RBC Ministries) as well as random things from around the internet. I’ve also read some booklets that Bible Doctrines to Live By released, as well as some small booklets that people just GAVE us that I was allowed to take home.
The other day I read something from an author - who’s name escapes me. He mentioned his weakness when it comes to really doing the will of God. It’s an issue and idea that has plagued my mind and heart for years. Literally.
Am I really as serious about my walk with God as I claim to be?
I ask myself this question, and dig deep. If God really wanted me to go to … Zimbabwe … would I be willing to go? Would I be willing to be a paster? Would I be willing to be a traveling evangelist?
These are things I told myself I never wanted to do. However, do I have the right, as a Christian, to decide that I will or will not do XYZ? Am I willing to go anywhere and be anything God wants me to?
It really is amazing how you think you’re dedicated until you get down to it. I’ve been offered to be a pastor in the past, and didn’t want to do it. Was that a smart choice? Well, maybe. But was it a GODLY choice? That remains to be seen. The opportunity has passed.
After all God has done for me … what had I done for Him?
Getting a grip on God’s great and loving investment in us should motivate us to gladly consider making His sacrifice rich in dividends. How is that return on His investment measured? By living to bring glory to Him! Our eyes, hands, feet, thoughts, dreams, and desires have been purchased to reflect the wondrous glory of God’s will and wisdom. In other words, we are no longer our own.
Paul concluded (in I Corinthians 6:20), “Therefore glorify God in your body” (v.20). Living to reflect His glory is the return on investment that makes the Owner of our lives look good! — Joe Stowell [LINK TO ARTICLE]
