A spiritual gift is given to
each of us so we can help each other (1 Corinthians 12:7).
God has taught
me many things over the past several weeks. Because He has demanded my full
attention, I’ve been very frustrated. Frustrated because He has not allowed me
to write anything except a few quick blurbs on Facebook. I pleaded with Him,
but He made it clear that I would not write again until I understood what He
was teaching, including being patient and God-centered.
Like many
of you, I want to do what I want to do when I want. And I can almost guarantee
this attitude will lead to long lessons in humility and waiting on the Lord.
Fortunately, our Father won’t allow us to follow our own desires with peace and
joy. He’ll fill us with a growing discomfort until we focus on Him.
The above
verse has been important in my educational journey. I’ve learned that some
would have us believe our spiritual gifts are only for the benefit of other
believers. However, the Lord taught me that our gifts are for the benefit of all,
unbelievers and believers. Our calling is to be and make disciples, students
and mentors, of all people. Teaching the Truth of the Gospel and Christian
living is essential to everyone, not just believers. It’s the departure from
Biblical Truths that has our country and our world in such turmoil today.
It’s
crucial that we teach everyone the ways of the Lord. It’s imperative that we
remember we do most of our teaching through our actions, not just our words. We
can’t live like unbelievers and “preach” the Word of God. Others don’t care
what we have to say until they see that we are truly different, at peace with
ourselves and life. We’re given our spiritual gifts to live an exemplary life
that will cause others to long for what we have. We’re called to live in such a
way that everyone will clearly see what a joy it is to follow Jesus.
Give your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress. Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you (1 Timothy 4:15-16).
Give your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress. Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you (1 Timothy 4:15-16).
great words! I love that you were not able to write until you received the message...
ReplyDeleteThanks Carole. It's not always easy to wait on the Lord, but it's always worth it. Have a blessed week.
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