There is someone else on the other side of your yes. We often get it backwards. As we step out into the places God calls us, we often initially believe that it’s all about us. But the more steps we begin to take, the more we begin to realize – it has very little to do with us, and so much more about what God wants to do through us. Who He wants to reach. Who He wants to impact.
If you were asked to sit down and analyze your finances, what would be your reaction? Given the nature of the subject, most of us would rather eat our shirt for breakfast than spend twenty minutes crunching numbers. But in all reality, how we manage money says a lot about not only our financial life but our spiritual one. The teachings of Jesus are no exception. He taught parables regarding money in approximately 40% of the Bible.
Whenever I watched a Hallmark commercial, my eyes would swell up in tears. I cried easily when my feelings were hurt. Throughout my life, I’ve been called “too sensitive” or told to “get a thicker skin.” It bothered me that I felt more deeply than others. For a long time, I thought my sensitivity was a weakness in my life.
While standing at the kitchen sink washing dishes, I watched the suds roll down the drain as the tears rolled down my cheeks. Earlier that morning, a battle of the wills ensued between myself and my son, ending in frustration, anger, and more than a few thoughtless words.
It was on an out-and-about kind of day, filled with errands and meetings and school pickups, that the splinter wedged itself into my index finger. I couldn’t stop to dig it out, so I spent the day rebuking it. You, Mr. Evil Splinter, are not supposed to be here.