“But when others give up, lion chasers step up.”- Mark Batterson
“Consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am the Lord your God.”- Leviticus 20:7
Mark Batterson begins Chapter 10 (“The Lion’s Den”) of Chase the Lion by observing that we celebrate Benaiah because he came out of the lion’s den alive. However, while that’s an amazing feat, another part of Benaiah’s story is more amazing. As Mark states, “it’s not coming out that is courageous; it’s going in.”
Therefore, in God’s kingdom the outcome is irrelevant. Rather, obedience matters. God’s kingdom spells success stewardship. We strive to make the most of the time, talent, and treasure given to us by God. Also, we do the best we can with what we have precisely where we are. As Pastor Batterson states, God’s kingdom flips our definitions of success and failure:
“If you succeed at the wrong thing, you’ve failed. If you fail at the right thing, you’ve succeeded.”
Yet, although we all want to do something amazing for God, that’s God’s job- not ours! Our responsibility- consecrating ourselves. As Mark summarizes, “Consecrate yourself today, and amazing is on the way!” Even so, it’s very hard for us to trust God with the outcome.
However, we cannot equate amazing with wealth, health, or prosperity. As Mark underscores, the will of God = the glory of God.
Faithfulness and obedience to Christ never are for naught. As long as God gets the glory, goal accomplished!
Today’s question: What opportunities to step up have presented themselves during your desert, land between time? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Talk to your problems about God”