Is It A Drag?

Some people endure hardships very quietly, while others do so in such a way that draws attention to them. Life situations viewed as a drag almost seem to become a brag to the latter. Attention is drawn by moaning over the hardships as if in an attempt to have others note a “martyr spirit.” The complaining and bemoaning of the CROSS one may have to bear does not lighten the burden, but rather often increases the weight being felt.

Someone has said, “The Cross is easier to the Christian who takes it up than to him who drags it along.” [source: “1600 Squibs And Quips”, compiled by E. C. McKenzie]

A disciple of Jesus is to be willing to “TAKE UP his cross” (Matthew
16:24) while following on in life. As we consider whatever cross we might bear, are we seen TAKING IT UP or dragging it along. Do those amongst whom we live our daily lives view us as bemoaning life as a Christian or rejoicing in following Christ?

Paul exhorted…
“(14) DO ALL THINGS WITHOUT GRUMBLING or questioning, (15) that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, (16) holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. (17) EVEN IF I AM TO BE POURED OUT AS A DRINK OFFERING UPON THE SACRIFICIAL OFFERING OF YOUR FAITH, I AM GLAD AND REJOICE with you all. (18) Likewise YOU ALSO SHOULD BE GLAD AND REJOICE with me.” ( Philippians 2:14-18 ESV)

Paul bore much in this life. However, he rejoiced in the privilege that was his to be a servant of God. Regardless of what he faced, he knew the true blessings that were his and the ultimate deliverance he would enjoy.

Have you ever sung the song about Gladly, the cross-eyed bear? If so, you haven’t sung it right. The words are “Gladly the cross I’d bear.” Beyond the singing are we living it right? Does our response to the challenges and difficulties in life reveal Christianity to be a drag or a blessing?

I might have preferred Paul to not have used the word “all” in his statement above. However, as I look at his life I recognize he did practice what he preached. No wonder he had such an impact for Christ. May the resolve and strength of our trusting faith be evident as we cheerfully TAKE UP our cross and follow on to the glory and praise of God.

Have a great day PICKED UP BY THE JOY IN CHRIST!
Carl

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