Friday, September 13, 2013

By: Gwen Hitt

I KNOW Who I Am

Luke 6:38 Give, and it will be given to you....For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.

This week, my husband and I watched the finale of a competitive reality show that we enjoy watching together. I am not going to divulge the name of the program or the winner because I don't want to ruin the ending of the finale for any other viewers who were unable to watch the results.

I must admit that our feelings about the ultimate winner of the program evolved from dislike to admiration. From the very first episode, we both agreed that this contestant was highly skilled, but we mistakenly assumed that this individual was conceited and arrogant. Why did our opinion change so drastically?

First of all, as I mentioned, this person possessed incredible skill - producing excellent results week after week. What we initially assumed to be arrogance and conceit was actually an honest assessment of this contestant's abilities and passion - the reason for being selected to be on this program. Interestingly, I recently read that Jesus - in more than 18 instances - began statements with "I am" following with a description of who He was. Jesus not only recognized who He was and IS, but He also operated in the knowledge of His purpose.

Secondly, this individual - on TWO occasions in crucial points of the competition - assisted rival contenders in a way that was advantageous for these contestants. I can remember my husband and I saying to each other that this contestant would be blessed for doing so as today's verse reveals. Likewise, Philippians 2:3-4 also urges us to live our lives in this manner - "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."

Although the majority of us will never participate in a highly competitive reality show, we, sadly, reside and work in a world that can be just as competitive at times. My challenge to you is to always work hard unto the Lord to fulfill your purpose with excellence. However, in doing so, it is crucial to be a willing vessel to assist others to achieve their potential as well!

Dear Lord, You tell me in Matthew 5:16 to ".... let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Please help me to be a reflection of You in all I do each and everyday of my life.

I thank You, my Jesus, for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life.