A Modern Woman's Perspective On The Kingdom of God on Earth


February 16, 2013

How We Matter In This Upside Down World

     This is one of those days when I read the headlines, and I think, "The world is spinning out of control, and how can my life count for anything in this turmoil and chaos?"  There is the threat of nuclear war from any number of players.  Who will perfect their nuclear capabilities first?  North Korea or Iran?  And who can stop them?
     The world's financial stability is hanging on by a thread, and we're told that "things are getting better".  But deep within, we know that things could come crashing down at any moment.
     The threat of religious persecution is spreading across the globe, with Christians in the Middle East, India, and Africa bearing the brunt of this oppression.  How long before we are shaken from our comfortable faith?
     And closer to home and more personal, I can feel that things here in America are approaching a boiling point.  Executive orders make it possible for unlawful seizures, attacks by drones, and the dissolution of our Constitution.  So with all of this depressing reality, how am I supposed to live my life?
     It would be easy to give in to the doom and gloom, and adopt a pessimistic outlook.  But there's a sense in my soul that I have a purpose and I am to influence the lives of others; make their day better in some small way, while honoring God in all that I do. That may sound "pollyannish" and excessively cheery, but think about it.  Each of us have something unique to offer the world; some small way that we can contribute to the well-being of another.
     In the current circumstances there is much we can do.  We can teach skills we've acquired, educate others about how to safeguard their families and property, share the Word with someone who needs to hear it.  We are all on our own journey through this span of time.  No matter where you are on that timeline, you have learned from your past and are surely anticipating what's ahead.  Everyone you come in contact with can benefit from your experiences and your hopes and ideas.
     I am not the same person I was four or five years ago.  My perspective about the future has changed, as well as my skill set and my goals.  I no longer picture myself growing old gracefully into my "golden years".  The "things" of the world don't seem to glitter like they did.  Instead, I am attracted to learning again; and its the traditional skills such as canning, gardening, soap-making, and bread-baking that have captured my attention.  I am revisiting the ideology that founded this country and incorporating it into my way of life.  And I re-discovered a talent for writing that God instilled in me, but I had buried due to the distractions of the world.  I also acquired a renewed passion for His Word and a burning desire to know the God of the Bible.  What is he trying to tell us?  And I want to share every new discovery about Him with all those in my path!  I want my life to count for Him!  And I can't help feeling there is an urgency about all of it.
     So how do we matter in this crazy, mixed up world?  By doing the small things .... tell your story to someone; share of yourself; make a connection with another human being.  We are not meant to sit, cowering in a corner, afraid of impending events.  We are meant to enrich each others' lives and show our Father's love to the world.  How do you do that in light of the nightly news?  You don't ignore what is happening around you, but you don't let it dictate to your heart.  Pay attention and then ask Him to guide you and to put you in front of those who need to hear what you have to say.  Look for the chances to share your talents and gifts.  And don't worry; the opportunities will come.  Your life does matter .... now more than ever.
   
Romans 15:1-2     "We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up."

7 comments:

  1. And they do not light a lamp and set it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all those who are in the house.

    Great post. You have so much to share & your encouragement means so much.
    C

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The greatest thing each individual can do for this world is to share what God has done for them and what He offers to everyone who seeks Him. Let His light shine in our present darkness!

      Delete
  2. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I think you are "a voice crying in the wilderness". I may not comment on each post but I read them all. You are an encouragement.

    JM

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. We all need to encourage each other with God's promises, and this is what will sustain us through the coming difficulties.

      Delete
    2. And I think it's only going to get worse. This is an interesting post to read along with your "late to the party" post. It's a tough struggle to keep centered

      Delete
    3. Yes, it's a tough struggle to stay centered, but don't despair! God has given us a great opportunity to make our lives count.... not only for Him, but for the country He has blessed. On those darkest days, just reach out and help someone. Even the smallest gesture towards another person will bless you both. We really are all in this together, and with God's help, we will make it!

      Delete