From blog to blog I see a repeated theme lately. It’s a word that can be poisonous in many ways; to those who do not have the faith or discernment to know. It’s a feel good message; that many will latch onto; and ultimately screw up what might be Gods perfect will in their lives.
I have watched, and since the turn of the century I have noticed that there are fewer and fewer warriors out there; dedicating their lives to Gods perfect will; and willing to suffer whatever; to see that plan fulfilled.
I’m seeing more of: Seek out happiness… Than seek out Gods Perfect plan.
My mind flashes back through the bible to Mosses, Noah, Joseph, Jonah, David, Jesus, the disciples, and Paul...
The hardest test I endure is counting the suffering as joy. Knowing that every twinge, tear, or heartache is suffered for a reason; in season; at just the right time; to help us grow from one level to the next. Maybe in preparation for one great moment in time; in all eternity; from glory to glory.
Why does the Bible repeatedly tell us to count our sufferings as joy?
Because living a dedicated servants life is hard... Faith alone goes against anything human. AND... we have an enemy, the devil, that prowls around like a lion; looking for every possible opportunity to destroy us. And it really sucks sometimes... no... actually… it sucks all the time.
Not everyone is called into the five fold ministries; given a label; branded. And this message may not be for you. Maybe your purpose is to love and support someone that is called, and has answered that call. Remember John the Baptist? He wore animal skins and lived off the land. He didn’t have … anything… but what he knew in his heart.
(Mat 19:29-30 NLT) "And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will have eternal life. {30} But many who seem to be important now will be the least important then, and those who are considered least here will be the greatest then."
There is nothing wrong with being happy, or having things… not at all. However, just because someone does not “have”, does not mean they are evil.
To those who have found the faith, liberty, and freedoms we have in Christ:
(Rom 14:21-22 NLT) {21} Don't eat meat or drink wine or do anything else if it might cause another Christian to stumble. {22} You may have the faith to believe that there is nothing wrong with what you are doing, but keep it between yourself and God. Blessed are those who do not condemn themselves by doing something they know is all right. “
And Then:
(Rom 15:1-7 NLT) "We may know that these things make no difference, but we cannot just go ahead and do them to please ourselves. We must be considerate of the doubts and fears of those who think these things are wrong. {2} We should please others. If we do what helps them, we will build them up in the Lord. {3} For even Christ didn't please himself. As the Scriptures say, "Those who insult you are also insulting me." {4} Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. They give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God's promises. {5} May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other--each with the attitude of Christ Jesus toward the other. {6} Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. {7} So accept each other just as Christ has accepted you; then God will be glorified."
