Me, Myself, and I

In today’s age of self expression, it’s easy for the Devil to falsely lead us into believing that the world revolves around our desires. The thousands of charitable organizations around the world prove that we are not the sole focus of the universe, but serving our fellow man (and woman) in unexpected acts of kindness is.

The worthwhile endeavor of denying our own desires for the good of others (anywhere disadvantaged human beings are located) are identified in Matthew 16:25-26:

“”Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to finding yourself, your true self. What kind of deal is it to get everything you want, but lose yourself? What could you ever trade for your soul?”

Satan is consistent (and sneaky) in the way he leads us into a false sense of security of our own abilities in solving our life issues. (A divine source has all the skills in problem solving we need.) I Peter 5:8-11 adds this insight:

“Keep a cool head. Stay alert. The Devil is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch you napping. Keep your guard up. You’re not the only one plunged into these hard times. It’s the same with Christians all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith.

The suffering won’t last forever. It won’t be long before this generous God, who has great plans for us in Christ (eternal and glorious plans they are) will have you put together, and on your feet for good. He gets the last word; yes, He does.”

Even the positive items in our existence can have the potential to lead us away from God (if we don’t keep it all in the right perspective). “…worship the Lord your God, and only Him. Serve Him with absolute single-heartedness.” (Matthew 4:10)

A few items that can become idols include a friend (or family member), religion, a vacation spot, an object, a hobby, or a pet.

How could the above objects become an addiction (or an emotional stabilizer in troubled times) instead of the Almighty? You can figure this out. The answer is simple.

Your Heavenly Father has always been totally committed to everything about you. Has God always been able to say the same thing about you? Psalm 16:5 provides this truth. “My choice is You, God, first and only. And now I find I’m your choice!”  

With correct priorities, it becomes evident the Almighty is the One that gets us through our daily struggles. This is a fact you can be certain of no matter how much your feelings might fluctuate.

*This blog topic was suggested by my wife, Bobbi Kinker.

**All scripture is taken from The Message paraphrase (of the Bible).