Manythings are trying to grab our attention in the world around
us. Our life is being moulded by the choices we make daily. What comes
first in your life? It depends on what you value most in life? Today's
value system is warped and twisted. First rate energies and resources
are being spent on third rate causes! The evil system in the world
has blinded the hearts of many people not to see the true value of
anything. Here are certain choices before us. Let us see what comes
first in our life- that will have the most powerful impact upon our
lifestyle.
The principles given below have been gleaned from the true story
of a family who invited the Lord Jesus into their house and how He
began to point out and help them set their priorities correctly. Read
it in Luke 10:38-42.
1. People versus Possessions:
What is important to us? By respecting the human life, helping others
to live, and showing concern towards the needy, we are testifying
that we value people more than possessions. In today's materialistic
world, people have become less important than riches. The Lord Jesus
paid a very high price to redeem human life by giving His own life
on the cross.
2. Planning versus Pressure:
Many can only work under pressure- of their superiors, of the spouse
at home or others who exert much influence on them. There are others
who work by proper planning so that there is no feeling of anxiety
or worry about anything." Those who fail to plan are planning
to fail". Determine to discipline your life by planning your
daily life and budgeting your time, money and energy, etc. You will
find fulfilment in your life. You become an achiever and winner.
3. Worship versus Work: For many,
work is life. There is nothing else they think of doing! However,
work is one activity of life which is only to help us earn a living.
But it should not become everything. The One who gave us all things
need to be worshipped and remembered too. If we chose to give priority
to worshipping the Lord, then we will receive the needed grace and
strength to do the work properly. Never say work is worship.Worship
energizes you to work!
4. Compliments versus Criticism:
People are often quick to criticize or point out weak or negative
things in others. We have to see the good things and positive aspects
in everybody and everything, and pay compliments accordingly. Everybody
is happy to hear compliments and nobody wants to be criticized. To
get good compliments, you have to give compliments to others.
5. Gratefulness versus Grumbling:
There are many good things we can be thankful to God and man for.
But some are habituated in grumbling for almost everything. Develop
an attitude of gratitude towards God for His grace and goodness. It
is sin not to give thanks. (Rom. 1: 21).
"In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ
Jesus concerning you." (1Thessalonians 5:18). (To
be contd next week)
