Hello
Sometimes we’re poleaxed by people’s apparent joy at our success. And we want to shout, ‘it’s all God!’ Well, it is possible that that is as it ought to be. Consider if you will, today’s Holy Nougat
“When the godly succeed, everyone is glad. When the wicked take charge, people go into hiding.” Proverbs 28:12 NLT
This morning I invite us to continue (begin) our spiritual Performance Appraisal. And the issue before us is, ‘How do others perceive us?’ True, we are anointed and appointed by God; but our core mission is to impact the world. And to impact the world for God’s glory, Jesus. One effective way to realize that goal would be through our interaction with others.
I am not asking us about the wicked people we encounter along life’s way. Rather, God’s desire is that we examine the inward parts lest we are perceived as ‘the wicked’, whose presence paints God in a negative way.
Wickedness is often perceived as heartlessness: lack of empathy for others, selfishness, unhealthy competitiveness, spiteful behavior, undue jealousy among others. Or, as Paul would say, walking in discord with God’s Spirit. (See Galatians 5 for more concrete examples).
On the other hand, though we might be taken advantage of, being ‘godly’ (not ‘holy-holy’) is a Strong indicator of spiritual growth. (Again, for more details, see Galatians 5). Of course, if we approach the Appraisal with integrity, it is likely that we will have room for improvement in some areas.
However, if the flesh is overwhelming the Fruit of the Spirit, perhaps we need less ‘me time’ and more ‘God time’. Beginning with prayer. Oh yeah. Honest-to-God one on One prayer. The ‘have mercy on me according to Your loving kindness’ (psalm 51 style), keeping it real.
And if the balance sheet of the Appraisal has reflects ‘well done, good and faithful one’, congratulations! Recognize though, it’s either time for permanent retirement or to disciple others. Yup, that’s also part of our JD (job description); it’s right up there in Matthew 28, those final verses.
Are real, honest persons rooting for our success? Or have they gone into hiding because of our visible witness?
Grace and Peace to us all.
Good morning
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
