Several years ago, I participated in a study group based upon Rick Warren's book The Purpose Driven Life. It was an awesome learning experience, I can assure you. I remember the first sentence in the book was "It's not about me." Or it could have been "It's not about you." I don't have the book in front of me, so I am going with the former for blog purposes.
The premise of the book is to get our focus off of ourselves and figure out what we are really here for. I'm encouraging anyone who hasn't read the book to take the time to do so. Therefore, I'm not going to give out all of the good stuff. But basically, one of the main points is that we are not on this earth for our own benefit. We are here for God. We are here for God's glory. We are here to build His kingdom.
The book made a profound difference in my life. It stirred a passion and a desire for God that I didn't know was possible. I began to look at others before myself. I started considering what I said and what I did and how it would glorify God. I started walking with God instead of just lagging behind Him and straying whenever I could.
But sometime during the last few months, I have let "me" creep into the picture again. Some things have happened regarding our move and people saying ugly things about it. Also, with homeschooling. Some people don't care much for homeschooling at all. I've watched people get put down by others, some you would have never expected. I have seen wolves in sheep's clothing. And I don't mind telling you that I have taken it a bit personal. I've even been accused of taking a few digs here and there at people. And ya know, I have to admit that there have been times that I have. I get mad when I see people being led astray or being shown a really good front, knowing what is going on behind the scenes. And I have used my comments and some of my blogs to sort of get the message to people that "Hey, you aren't fooling me." Well, there's that word - ME.
Here's the thing...I have been enraged by someone I know sitting in judgment. And my anger has accomplished one thing - getting itself weaseled in between me and God. And ya know I am just not going to allow that to happen any more. I like the relationship that God and I had going. And I don't like the relationship that satan imposes upon me. I find that I have been a little judgmental myself in watching what this person is doing to so many that surrounds them. I am no better than they are or anyone else. And there is always a stone laying around and I don't want to have to repair any windows.
So today, I am releasing the hold that satan has had over me and I am going to focus on what I am here for - glorifying God! The offense that I have taken will no longer control me. I will pray for the wolves and ask my Father to bless them immensely. After all, He's got the final say, doesn't He? He knows what He is doing far better than I ever will. And as long as I trust in Him to handle the situations, all is well.
When you get down and someone has stepped on your toes, remember this one little thing - that's God's way of showing you who you need to be praying for. I've done a little toe stepping lately, so please keep me in your prayers.
I have been reading this awesome book lately. I had to skip to the last chapter, though. I am a sucker for awesome endings. And this book really has one. There is an incredible battle, but the Good Guy wins. Look around your house - I'm sure you already have the book. The Bible. LOVE it!
I wish for blessings to be poured all over you tomorrow. Pray for those that have offended you and just let it go. It's not about you.
Love ya!
