Wanting The Best!

It is easy in this world to get caught up in what we want for ourselves. Whether we are talking about possessions or position the draw can be great. Even when it comes to religion, some make much of gaining a following after themselves in a manner that God can at some point begin to be left out of the picture.

Consider the impact our life can have on those around us when we genuinely want the best for them! With such a desire, we would be less likely to covet what others have or be jealous of their position or state in life. When our life ambition is motivated by or grounded in the Will of God, it can be a powerful thing in service TO HIM! This is what seemed to mark the focus of the life of Paul, thus aiding aid him in retaining a sense of humility while pressing on zealously for the cause of Christ. While other's were apparently making much of themselves in association with their ministry (i.e. 2 Corinthians 10:12 & 11:12-13) Paul never seems to have lost sight of who it was all for.

We read. . .
"(2) I feel a DIVINE JEALOUSY for you, for I betrothed you to one husband, TO PRESENT YOU AS A PURE VIRGIN TO CHRIST." ( 2 Corinthians 11:2 ESV)

Paul's "jealousy" was not personal; a longing for himself. Rather, his "jealousy" was "Divine" in its desire to draw all into a relationship WITH CHRIST. It was a following FOR CHRIST, not a following for Paul (note 1 Corinthians 1:12-15; 3:5-7) he desired to encourage. Whether he got noticed or not was not the issue. That people were responding to the message of Christ to FOLLOW CHRIST is what mattered most to Paul. Therefore he remained a good humble servant of Christ.

Desiring for others to FOLLOW CHRIST is wanting the very best for them. Directing others TO JESUS is the best use of our life. May we continue following Jesus as we humbly surrender our life to directing others TO HIM by example of the life we live and the truth of the Scriptures we share!

Have a great day KEEPING LIFE ALL ABOUT JESUS!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Life Perspective