Monday, April 21, 2008

Heart Trouble

As I read my daily (sometimes not so daily) Bible study last night I read Romans 12. Afterr my favorite verses I read something that I had never considered before. Paul says, "For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you." Paul then goes on to talk about the different functions of the Body.
Now for someone like me who has chronically low self esteem, I am not sure how to take this statement. I know God views me as something precious and worthy of praise (Isaiah 63). I also have come to realize life is NOT about me. I intend to instill this bit of knowledge into my children, which is often lacking in this generation.
I also realize there are qualities in my life that need to change for me to be more like Christ. This is not an easy process, no not all. It is a process that is intentional and sacrificial. People do not change for the better unless they intentionally give of themselves. For the process to be complete that sacrifice has to be entire. This is the part which we called "gut check" time in track practice, when you get to the point where you either give it your all or just part.The point that made you a winner or just a participant. Or a whiner like me, Ouch, sad but true "Therefore I urge you as brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, this your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is, his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12: 1-2


As an aside, life is better. Or maybe my perspective is better too. Spring is finally here. Trevor and I are gearing up for some more high speed insanity we like to call life. Pray for us as we ready for summer and the challenges and opportunities that will arise ( usually last minute if I know my husband well).