Yesterday a young woman in our church shared some of her upcoming plans with the congregation. She's a beautiful and gifted young lady who has chosen to serve God above all else. She's already spent a great deal of time on the mission field and now believes God is moving her to a new location overseas. This new place will not be filled with the comforts we are accustomed to.
As she shared her heart and what God is doing in her life and around the world I felt tears begin to build. I'm in awe of her, and I'm so proud to be part of the Christian family. We are imperfect, but through the years I've witnessed a great deal of love, faith, and generosity.
As many other Christians have done, this gal is giving up a great deal -- a comfortable home here in the states, family and friends, security and safety and so much that we take for granted. She's doing it out of love for the Lord and for the people in this world who do not know him.
As I listened, personal conviction grew. I too serve God, but sometimes my desires have little to do with him or other people, but rather they are about me. My focus becomes distorted by desires for worldly things--money, possessions, time.
I have no right to complain. I serve right here in my home country, and I live in a cozy, familiar house and sit in a comfy chair where I write books and blogs, and notes to friends. I get to work on Bible studies, speeches and workshops. I love all these things and yet, there are days when I detest the duties given to me. Some days it feels too difficult.
Do you ever feel this way? It's easy to get off track, to forget to be grateful, to forget that our gifts are meant for service and that being called to serve by the creator of the universe is a privilege.
The most beautiful moments in my life are the ones when I've made a positive difference in someone else's life and in the world. We can't force good and lasting things happen. God does that. We must simply keep our eyes on Christ and off of ourselves. God will take care of the rest.
Life can't be about me. If it is, then it's not about him.
Let's make it about him.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie Leon
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Thanks Bonnie. Wise words and food for prayer and thought.
ReplyDeleteHi Sheila.
ReplyDeleteI thank God for His Word, which is my guide to living. Now, if I'll just learn to do what He says everything will be just fine. :-)
Blessings,
Bonnie
Yes Bonnie, Don't we all live in that comfort zone. God has everyone in different places. As a young woman I wanted to be a missionary in Africa. Then a friend told me missionaries were also needed in my own backyard...The writer Catherine Marshall was amazed how many people were reached through her books. You are a missionary through your writing also..and God has called you to that. It was a gift given to you,to be used for His glory..You are exactly where He wants you to be at this time.. And, you are a great blessing to others. You'll just never know who or how many you touch!
ReplyDeleteHi Crystal.
ReplyDeleteHow good to hear from you. And yes, you are so right. We are all missionaries. God calls us to serve in a variety of places and uses our own special gifts.
It is wonderful to belong to Him.
Blessings to you,
Bonnie