Maturity happens when we come to realize that our life is not about us. It is not about what makes us happy or feel good. It is not about what we get to possess and play with. It is not about the number of friends we can accumulate or how great we look. Our life is not about fashion, statuses, gaining knowledge, having a great job or being well thought of by others.
Life is about what we contribute, give back, pour out, spend on other people. Life is about giving, sharing and affecting other people. It is about smiling when no one else can. It is about always having those words of encouragement. It is about giving back love in a room full of hate. It is about calm and peace when everyone else is in turmoil. It is about being a voice of reason in a sea of insanity. It is about being a fountain of hope in a world of despair.
You need to understand what a powerful instrument you are in the hands of the Spirit of God. It is not about what God can do for you because it is already done. You have already received favour and everything you desire is in the life to come. For the moment we are in a time of mission, of service in a season of help. We are the servants of God and he intends to care for others through us. He wants to speak a word of hope through us, the good news that brings light to a life of darkness. You are the conduit of his love, mercy, grace, kindness and peace. You, your life, how you love and speak, the actions you take, have a huge impact on people you don't even know.
This is what I realize as I read Paul's words to the Colossians:
"We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all the saints." (Colossians 1:3-4)
I can say that about some of you who have inspired me and spurred me on to greater things. As I have watched you face trials and temptations and overcome with great joy, I feel encouraged to stay strong in my faith. Perhaps you didn't realize I was even watching, but I was. I am sure many others were as well and feel equally encouraged and inspired by you. This is the "salt" Jesus was talking about. Simply in living by the Spirit, in being obedient to Jesus and living such a selfless life, you have inspired others to do the same. You have brought the flavour of Jesus in our lives.
Don't ever think your life doesn't matter, that you have no value. Your life is touching so many invisible people, people who see you every day and who you don't realize are there. They watch how you handle yourself, how you treat others, the speech you use, the kindness you show. They are affected by you and you don't even know it. When people think about you they thank God for you because you are an example to them of faith and love. Your life matters because you are a seed in God's hands and he is using you to produce a great harvest.
You are fantastic, incredible, beautiful and God is using you in lots of ways, many of which remain invisible to you. Don't give up! I thank God for you, every time I remember you in prayer.
"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." (Galatians 6:9)
1 comment:
Thanks for this encouraging post! Whether we realize it or not, we all wield some influence in this world and God simply calls us to use that influence for His glory. Thanks for the reminder!
And in case you were wondering, I just came across your blog by doing a bit of blog-suring. I just added myself as a follower and I hope you'll check out my Christian devotional blog as well.
Have a blessed day!
In Christ,
Dakota - A Look at Life from a Deerstand
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