Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me." ... John 21:22
*****
Now there's a verse that set me free.
Peoples' crazy-to-me choices used to send me to Bad Lands. I mean, didn't I know the best (biblical, even) way to do just about anything? Why wouldn't others do things those same, best ways? What are they thinking? What's gonna happen now? (Control issues, anyone?)
:)
But no more! What is that to me if you make choices I never would? If God's not nudging me to say anything, then I'm the one making the larger mistake if I do. If He just wants me to pray, I pray ... and then do some soul-searching of my own:
What kinds of choices am I making? Are they wise? Biblical?
How well am I handling God's last bit of conviction? Am I making the right changes?
How closely am I walking with God? How well am I hearing and obeying Him? Hmmm?
I can actually do something about my walk with God. I'll stand before Him someday and give an account of my life--not yours--and that's a pretty peaceful (though kinda heavy) thing, too.
And I can obey God and perhaps He'll make a difference in your life through my obedience, but really? Any changes you make will always be between Him and you. Your choices are yours, not mine.
Ahh ... feel the breeze, the serenity, the relief. "What is that to you? You must follow Me."
Yes, Lord. And thank-you.
*****
"Or how can you say to your brother, Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your eye,' when you yourself don't see the log in your eye? Hypocrite! First take the log out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck in your brother's eye." ...Luke 6:42
"...and make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands..." ...1 Thessalonians 4:11
Free Kindle books:
My Mom, My Hero
Road Trip to Redemption
*****
Road Trip to Redemption
*****
When I look at houses online which are even twice as much money as ours, I notice that so few have views of trees from their couch like Tom and I do here. We are blessed.
*****
This is such an EXCELLENT post!
ReplyDeleteOh my, how I needed to read this today.
Thank you for posting so regularly and thoughtfully.
I have rediscovered your blog and have been diligently reading.
I need so badly to hear how I can live my life as I am supposed to
even though those around me choose differently.
Thank you so much, In Christ, Diana
Thank-you, Diana! I'm so glad this post meant something to you and I do thank you for reading here so regularly, as well. Your words were a great encouragement! Blessings, Debra
ReplyDelete