So often, when we open the Word and begin to read, we find ourselves in a place of comfort. It’s easy just to settle in, read slowly over the words, reflect, and pray. Sometimes our thoughts are more systematic and laid out along the lines of the text; other times, they are more free flowing. But the Word is like an old friend. It brings us to the mind of God. I guess it ought to be that way.
One of the most difficult things, I believe, for almost all of us, is the challenge we have in regard to other people’s estimations of us. Do others approve of me and what I do? Do they not like me? Paul writes: “A person should consider us in this way: as servants of Christ and managers of God’s mysteries. In this regard, it is expected of managers that each one of them be found faithful. It is of little importance to me that I should be evaluated by you or by any human court. . . . The one who evaluates me is the Lord” (4:1-4). Wow, if we could only and always have that same attitude! To paraphrase a well know politician, what difference does it make what anybody thinks of me? Only God’s opinion ultimately matters. He is the owner of all we are and have; we only manage. And it’s for him to determine whether or not we are managing well.
A charge to keep I have,
a God to glorify,
a never-dying soul to save,
and fit it for the sky.
To serve the present age,
my calling to fulfill,
O may it all my pow’rs engage
to do my Master’s will! -- Charles Wesley (1762)
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