You were running a good race. Who cut in on you to keep you from obeying the truth? That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you. Galatians 5:7-8
When we self-reflect on why things bother us, if we land on sin as the reason, then we’ve landed on the fact that what’s bothering us isn’t from Jesus. Jesus Christ never tells us to do one more sin to get us out of further sin. He always tells us to stop and return to Him; to confess and repent, meaning to turn in the other direction and run fast.
If someone is attempting to persuade us to say or do something that isn’t Godly, something that doesn’t edify & worship Christ, then they aren’t motivated by God. Something else is motivating them. Too often, what motivates others is some kind of sin, meaning that what they’re asking of us isn’t from Jesus. This isn’t to say all others’ motivations are wrong, but they often are.
Take me, for instance. I’ve been on Facebook for 14 years. In that time, I don’t believe I’ve convinced even one new person to share my political or philosophical views. Sure, I encourage others in their views & beliefs (just as they do mine…we’re friends). We support each other as like-minded free people. And I share honest views, especially where my faith is concerned. But politics? Philosophy? Views and opinions on contemporary happenings? After thousands of attempts, I don’t think I’ve changed even one mind.
The reason is that my motivation was sometimes wrong. Not all the time; not even usually. But, yes, sometimes, even many times. I wanted to win. I wanted someone to come around to MY way of thinking. I wanted to be the one to help someone see the light or, better, yet, the error of their ways. I matter; I had something to say that they needed to hear! You can see the central concept in those statements: I, me. That’s wrong-headed motivation. It’s sin.
News flash: it’s not about me. Along with that, there’s a better way. Do it for Jesus; say things to build up His work, His kingdom, His spread in the world. He doesn’t need us to do it: He asks us to. So, think, say, and do things that will serve others, help others the way Jesus asks us to. Build up others. In doing so, we’re sharing Jesus. Do it when they rebuke us, or challenge us, or even hate us. Do it anyway.
Because when we do this, we’re turning away from self-direction and letting ourselves be directed by One who loves our selves and redeemed us for this purpose.
For further reading: Romans 8:28, 1 Corinthians 9:24, 2 Corinthians 5:15, Galatians 5:9
Lord, forgive me of my sins, and use me for Your mission today.
If you’d like to know more about Practical Proverbials, please contact aspiringwriterdt@gmail.com for more information
Practical Proverbs 