January 1st

The Journey of Life

Sometimes, we have to DECREASE in self so that God can INCREASE in our lives.  When you serve Christ, there will be times when your abilities and your reputation cease to be important in this world.  Think of Saul….(not Paul) He was a Benjamite, the smallest of Israel’s tribes and a very insignificant clan.  But God chose him to be the first king of Israel.  He didn’t even feel worthy of the job at first and tried to hide from being anointed.  Saul, in fact, found his new path in his life as a result of a loss.  He was looking for lost sheep and through a servant, who was a true friend, he was counseled in the right direction.  He was counseled not to focus on himself and his weaknesses but to have faith in God’s plan. 

But in 1 Samuel 10:9, it says, “At that very moment God transformed him – made him a new person!”  He became strong in areas he had always been weak in.  Others noticed…in fact they doubted him and made fun of him.  In verse 12 one man says, “Who would’ve guessed?”  And if verse 27 it says that others “held him in contempt and refused to congratulate him.” At first Saul paid them no mind.  But the doubt and words of others birthed an attitude in Saul that eventually became his downfall.  He cared what others thought of him and over time, he became a “people pleaser” instead of a God pleaser. 

Having a lack of confidence in yourself does not equate to humility.  Truly humble people have an enormous amount of confidence because they know that they know they are in God’s will.  When you stand out because of your abilities, people will become jealous and will try to bring down your confidence with their words.  Be wise in these situations.  Don’t boast or brag or make others feel inferior.  Just refuse to focus on yourself and stay focused on God.  Don’t obey doubt because what others say has disappointed you.  By faith – always remember that you are anointed and chosen by God.  Your abilities are from him and you will thrive when you give honor and thanks to God for them.  Rejoice in the privileges God has given you instead of worrying about what others may think. 

When you have problems with other people, this does not mean to avoid them either.  When you shy away from and avoid all confrontation, this is actually prioritizing yourself over God.  Allow God to work through you as you deal with problems.  Become a leader in handling difficult situations.  If you lead out of compassion for others, wanting them to see Christ in your life and not to receive their favor, God will raise you up and you will prosper beyond your imagination. 

Verse:  Galatians 1:10 – Am I trying to win the approval of men or God?  Or am I trying to please men?  If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.