I haven't written much lately, have I? It's been mostly because I'm busy in a crazy way, but in part it's been because I've been a bit discouraged. Mainly in what I see in fellow Christians. I get discouraged with masks in particular: Those who act one way to the rest of the world when the occasion calls for it, and then another way any other time. I KNOW in my head that people are human, they are walking their own path, and are learning in their own time, as am I, but it is just something that seems prevalent these days, and I just want more than that.
But, God is good. I don't know if He just opened my eyes to those around me or what, but I have lately been interacting with some colleagues who I have seen in a different light, and it's encouraging. I see them choosing the right words and actions during tense circumstances, agreeing to disagree, realizing that others' opinions are an extention of their persona and being respectful of that. In fact, they have made it part of their core values. I don't see it as words. I think it is a true reflection of their heart's desire to come together as a group of people for a common purpose.
Unfortunately, the climate of others with whom we work is not always so. There tends to be competition, the living of a scripted life instead of a genuine one, and it's sad. Hopefully there will be growth. And my personal intention is to keep my eyes on the road ahead and my place on it, rather than those on the sidelines. In the meantime, I have these great colleagues who are really living a genuine Christian existence, and it's such an encouragement. Never underestimate the testimony of a life well-lived!
5 comments:
After a couple more decapitations this weekend, I dethatched the soil overseeded the lawn. That seems to have taken the edge off. I think I'm back to normal now.
Hi Stacy,
It can be discouraging to watch others that claim to be Christians and most likely are. What you have to remember is just because one is saved we still have to fight the sin nature that is part of being a part of mankind. Man fell but through salvation we are saved. We have to struggle each day to control the normal nature that we have. Some days are better than others.
I hope this helps you through your discouragment. Or I hope it helps others. I try to keep this in mind as I go through my day. I have also heard that we should try to encourage our fellow Christian as they struggle. I find this most difficult. I am basically a bashful person so getting into situations like this can be trying.
Take care.
Mike
Craver,
Maybe that's what I need, a LAWN! I can take my frustrations about mankind and sin nature out on the unsuspecting dandelion! You're right...it's the perfect scapegoat. Maybe I can get some potted plants, put them out front, then watch for signs of dandelion growth. Dandelion decapitation may be just the ticket.
Thanks for the laugh!
Mike,
I think I get discouraged because of the "those who know better should do better" factor, but really, all I have to do is look at myself and it throws me right back into reality! My sin nature sits right up there with the best of them (or worst of them???)! So, as my mom used to say, I should get off of my pity pot (or was it high horse). :) It's why I like to blog, though. Gets those thoughts out there where I can see them.
Thanks so much for the encouragement! You are so right. I guess I KNOW better, so I should DO better, huh? :) By the way, you're taking some awesome pictures lately. I love the train pics in Colorado. And the lady standing at the train station. Looks like a great place. Enjoy!
Hello!
I've just recently started reading your blog, and I can really relate to this particular post. I also get discouraged at times when I don't see others living the way they say they want to. It's one thing if someone hasn't committed their life to Christ yet, because we can't expect people to follow something they don't yet believe in. But when I see Christians acting in ways they shouldn't, it gets to me. But it's nice to know that all I really have to do is love them no matter what, and God will do the rest.
Cahleen
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