It is hard to make it in this world. It seems as though for the Christian, there is a continuous mounting level of persecution. When we speak out we are considered hypocritical. When we are silent we are considered passive. It seems as though there is no way of getting away from the negative view of Christianity. And as such, I tend to be poisoned to the point that I begin to feel negative about myself and wonder if it is all worth it.
But isn’t the fact that we are being noticed kind of the point. We are making a difference and have to remember that it is really not about us. I have continue with the work that I have been given and know that it is making a difference. Others are watching and see the work I am doing and I have to realize that I am not here to make everyone happy, but I am here to spread the gospel of the Lord.
It is easy for me to simply give in to the naysayers and those that persecute me into believing that I have somehow done something wrong. When really maybe what I have done is to bring light to some darkness. I have to take the work, invite and embrace it so that others can see that work in me.
“5A fool despises his father’s instruction, but whoever heeds reproof is prudent. 32Whoever ignores instruction despises himself, but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence.” – Proverbs 15:5 & 32 (ESV)
I have to love myself enough to know that the work I am doing is not for me, but for God. I am not here for my own pleasure, but for His. I am to be doing the work knowing that I will be rewarded. I have to invite the chance to do the work and the consequences of that work and what comes of it here in this world does not really matter when I consider my kingdom purpose. The difficulty that I experience is just part of the journey to the reward I have waiting for me in heaven. I chose to follow Christ and now it is my duty to invite instruction and so that I can do His work.
Loving myself seems to be the place where I struggle the most. When I am working in an environment, regardless of where or what it might be, my thoughts are on making it easier for others and making sure that they have what they need to be successful. I take on more work so others do not have to. In knowing that, I have to love myself enough to know that it is my choice to do that and not to expect anyone to recognize it. I am simply doing that which I have been taught to do and when I am not getting something in return, it should not matter as I will be getting what was expected anyway, the love of God and the satisfaction of doing His work.
So I am here doing the work of the Lord for His glory and knowing that I will receive my reward in heaven. Lord, I invite instruction and reproof so that I can grow in my purpose and bring glory to you. I am yours to direct and I know that the journey may be hard. I love myself enough to know that you only want what is best for me, and that best may not be here, but with you in heaven.
What things are you avoiding because they may be hard? Do you love yourself enough to invite that hard work and know that your reward may be sometime later? What if you loved yourself enough to recognize the work as worthwhile and invited even more of it?
Trevor's Thoughts 