And what does he have to do with you?
I came across a thoughtful statement in a Beth Moore study that many of our ladies are going through as a group. Within the text is an encouraging segment on the examples of certain heroes of our faith that made a monumental difference for the Kingdom, but were pretty normal kind of people. That alone blows my mind right there, because I often muse about doing big things for God, but convince myself that it takes a lot more that what I've got to make it happen. These champions are the modern day Moses, Joshua, and David.
Regarding the commitment of William Carey to spread the gospel in India in the late 1700's despite hardships, struggles, many twists and turns of supposed ministry paths, and little acceptance of the good news for many years, he persevered to an ultimate breakthrough of God's love and life-giving truth toward an otherwise lost people. (For details, I encourage you to investigate the whole of William Carey's story where I'm sure you will find many streams of encouragement.)
Beth Moore writes, "We must persevere in our commitment to Christ, not in our commitment to our commitment." (Believing God, p. 176) Ouch! Sometimes I get more motivated by reaching goals in my spiritual walk than by simply reaching toward my Savior. Oh I know the bible reading plans build our faith, and I know the chapters of study material deepen our walk and application of Scripture. To that end, there is no doubt. But I cannot say that my motivation is always purely to know God more and to infuse His purpose in my life.
May the Lord continue to draw us close to Him, that we may know of His goodness and execute it outwardly in all aspects of life. May the steps we take toward our spiritual goals be the by-product of the simplicity of following Christ.
"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." Luke 10:41-42
