Where is our focus?
I read an amazing quote from Joni Eareckson Tada. What she says transcends her own personal struggle with quadriplegia and chronic pain, and applies to every circumstance in our lives – whether painful or joyful. She said,
“I realised that the stakes were far greater, far more immense and cosmic than merely my satisfaction with a wheelchair and its unpleasant baggage. I shifted my focus onto God. His glory was at stake, and that made my satisfaction in Him (not satisfaction with ‘the way things were’) the real issue. It was no longer a matter of being content with His plan for my life; it was a matter of finding Him utterly and supremely the source of all contentment. This, much to my delight, would give Him the greatest glory.”
What an incredible perspective.
There are many, many Christians caught up in their own personal satisfaction, giving no thought to the way in which their lives show a deep satisfaction in God. Where is the willingness to forego a feeling of happiness in our marriages for the sake of God’s glory? No we are clawing for our rights, and forgetting that there is something far more immense and cosmic going on.
“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
– Lisa Chan, adapted from ‘You and Me Forever’