One of the old Puritans used to write on the flyleaf of his books: "Mind Thine Own Business!" God has given me a work to do, and I am to focus on it until it is done or He will remove me from it. If I glance with the eye of ambition on other things I might do, which seem more interesting and profitable, I am preparing myself for a stern admonition from God. Above all, I must avoid the wandering eye of jealousy: "See how much he's reaping, and hook at how little I've got!" To be jealous means "God is not treating me fairly," and nothing displeases the Lord more than an accusation like that!
Jesus said of the Pharisees, "They have their reward" (Matthew 6:2). Yes, they do. I may pick the standards of my own success if I choose, and the rewards will be immediate and instant. But they will not be God's rewards. How much better to hear Him say, "Faithful servant" (Matthew 25:21). Faithfulness rules out wealth, fame achievement, and notoriety. But it does not rule out the highest compliment of all: "You paid attention to the job I gave you, and you did it!" Faithfulness is a characteristic of Christ (Isaiah 11:5), and it will characterize those of us in whom His Spirit rests.
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| heartofthematter.com |
Since June 21, the date of summer solstice, we have seen very little sun here in San Francisco. In fact, some are saying that it is the coldest summer in 100 years, making that the coldest summer on record. Honestly though, after spending nearly 10 years in a country where the average temperature was 80 with high humidity, a cold summer has felt a little refreshing.
Then last week the sun came out.
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| theholidayzone.com |
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| seriouseats.com |
