What We Put Up With, Kinda.
We put up with a lot (and you probably know that already). However uncomfortable things may be we either deal with it out of necessity or because we have no choice, or some other motivation.
Especially during the Holiday Seasons it seems that this buffer of “dealing” gets larger. Maybe because it’s just fashionable to do so or maybe, just maybe, we’re in the “spirit” of things.
In any case, this year, I want wisdom to know when to and when not to put up with stuff, the bravery to tell others that they need to change, the humility to know that it’s me that needs to change, and the grace to accept that a lot of people have to put up with me.
Actually, scratch that; I can do better: I want a changed heart, a heart that desires to serve others above all else, and the wisdom to know who to serve, where to serve, and when to serve. I want to do the stuff that’s great, not just a lot of good stuff.
I’ve spent a lot of time doing stuff that looks good (on the outside) but that doesn’t really do much long-term (and that ends up hurting after a while). I’d rather not do that anymore.
Right on.
John
I am feeling much the same. After Andy's "Story" series I have been drawn to several books that are helping me question what I do and why I do it. Currently I am reading Francis Chan's Crazy Love and I am also reading the devotional "Jesus Calling". Both of these books are helping me remember that our purpose here is to praise and glorify God. They are both making me wonder whether what I do, my job the way it is now is really bringing true glory to Him. The amount of time I get to spend with my family is grossly reduced because I spend so much time at work, and when I am home I'm either working or thinking about work. Not so high on the praise threshold. So, I'm considering changes…pretty significant ones. Then I wonder, do I have the guts to make those changes and if I do, will they really result in more praise and glory for Him…or is it more a change in me, not my circumstances that is in order?
Thanks Tami!!!!
Well said, John. In fact, I think perhaps the church itself could benefit from taking that stance, especially re: how she utilizes Social Media tools.
My recent post So many tweets need a an explanatory blog post #smchurch #wiredchurch
Agreed
John
That's just so deep… I don't even know what to say.
you're right get rid of mediocrity. if you can great things why settle for good things?
Go John! God speed!
Great post. Totally agree. Doing a lot of the good stuff always comes at a cost… it’s exhausting. I desire all the heart stuff too. I also think the stuff in the third paragraph (the stuff before “scratch that”) goes along with it. For me it’s an and/too not an either/or.
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me too…for years i worked for "the man", punched my timecard and went home…neglecting to fine details. i'd rather you didn't have to do a complete restart at 40 like i have…career,spiritual,marriage,ministry, this past year EVERYTHING changed.
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