Tuesday, May 5, 2009

It's Not Your Turn Yet God

Do we ever find ourselves believing that there are God activities and then there is real life? Not so far as just knowing God on Sunday only, then living for ourselves the rest of the week. But we can find ourselves pushing God away as we try to get things done. "I still love you God, but I don't need you for this right here. I'll check in later."

Sometimes I hear people say that you can glorify God in everything you do. Like a football player that has a great game or a doctor performing a surgery. But I find myself questioning occasionally how riding in a bike race, for example, brings any glory to God. I know - yeah, if the person professes Jesus in front of a camera, that does deflect glory where it should go. But should there be more than that? What about during the race or in the preparation? It's not like you will be quoting scripture during every minute of every workout.
What about the stay at home mom who may not see a lot of excitement from some people's perspective? Can a woman get joy out of a routine that may get old at times?

It comes down to accepting and then embracing the calling God has put before you. Maybe you want to be the lead guitarist, but right now you are the backup sound guy. Well guess what? God sees you back there, and he sees what you are doing with what he has given you. We always have to remember that if we seek to follow God's callings (yes, we will probably have several in our lives), then he is using us right now in the ideal place he needs us to be.

So, during the slow times or during those situations that don't really seem to require God's input, we must take all opportunities to find joy in life. For most of us, mowing the lawn is simply a chore. But next time we are out doing yard work, we need to thank him for the energy he has supplied. And then realize we are taking responsibility for something that needs to be done - and it is not something separate from God's presence or power. It may not seem as important as giving a donation to a homeless individual for example. But God is about our heart. Whatever situation that is before us can be shaping us to be an effective disciple.

So, I really covered 2 things here:
bring Glory to God in all you do
find joy in your current situation

But it is pretty easy to do one if you do the other.

For me, seeing how God is involved in my life completely is something I am working on. Just because I'm driving to work, or taking a shower, or unloading the dishwasher shouldn't cause me to tell God to wait until I'm done. Yeah, that little task or thought or conversation is all under God's providence and he wishes to connect with us through all things.

So, the next time we find ourselves telling God to take a backseat because we are busy, let's invite him to hang out with us. The next time we feel our efforts are not producing any lasting fruit, let's enjoy our moment, and know that God is pleased.

PS: Please suggest a scripture for this one.