That passage has been on my mind a lot as of late. It is so convicting and so, so true.
Over the past few months, I have had a lot of positive feedback about my performance, work ethic, and attitude from the my boss, the staff, and the attorneys at work (for anyone who does not know, I work at a law firm).
When I hear this, I feel so flattered, but also fearful and convicted. Flattered that they see these positive attributes and characteristics in me. Fearful that I will not live up to their expectations. Convicted because I am tempted, and the world encourages me, to think it's my own ability and skills that have brought about these results. The truth is, it is only from Christ.
I've been struggling with questions such as, "How do I make them know it's HIM and not me? How do I continue to perform well and yet not exalt myself? Why is HE showing me so much grace? Why don't people respond when I share the gospel with them? How can I make them believe?"
These questions all have one simple answer: Christ. He reveals Himself to whom He reveals Himself; He is glorified through things in which we do not think are glorifying; He shows grace to those who don't deserve it; He plants seeds we may never see grow into plants; He gives faith and understanding of His saving grace to those who call upon His Name.
2 Timothy 2:11-13 is a truly wondrous passage:
"It is a trustworthy statement:
For if we died with Him, we will also live with Him;
12If we endure, we will also reign with Him;
If we deny Him, He also will deny us;
If we deny Him, He also will deny us;
13If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself." (NASB, italics mine)
Philippians 4:4-9:
" 4Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! 5Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near.6Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. 9The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you." (NASB)
Oh, for grace to trust Him more!
Hold fast to Jesus!
Sonia
