Be Rational
Context - Romans 12 (NIV)
“The view you have determines whether or not people are attracted to your message.” - Pastor Steve Murrell
For some reason, this quote is the one thing that was said in last night’s service that I copied verbatim. Something about this quote struck a chord in me. It might be the fact that I think I came to the realization that someone else had this same point of view.
I’ve been a proponent of having a well-rounded character and positive outlook upon things. I believe those are the building blocks of being not only a great person, but also a great leader. I think we would all benefit from better leadership skills.
Then, I looked back in the notes and found the passage that was being discussed.
I’d love for you to click on the link and read it. Don’t worry, I’m not going anywhere as you read it…
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OK, good? Now, what is it that you just read? The origins of the phrase “kill them with kindness” might have originated from this passage, which chastises replaying evil for evil. This passage also introduces the idea of “vengeance is mine, said The Lord.”
The main point is urging you to give yourself as a living sacrifice for God’s mercy. We sacrifice as a form of thanks. The intriguing part here is that the sacrifice is optional. We don’t have to “prove” our love to God for anyone. Also, we don’t have to get into God’s good graces, like most are wont to do. We just need to respond and be ready for the blessing. I’m glad that was brought up because I would constantly beat myself up for screwing things up, thinking I needed to get back into God’s god graces.
In reality, all we need to do is accept it. That’s why it’s GRACE and it’s not PAYMENT FOR EMPLOYMENT.
There’s nowhere in the Bible that says God demands a payment, like a heavenly invoice for our skills and time on Earth. No, God has given us the talents and abilities to do what we do. We don’t even have to turn around and say thanks, but all of us should, as we are given grace with no expectation for repayment.
This is the true meaning of a gift, just give it to give it, don’t attach any strings to it.
Live on purpose. Love on purpose. Live HIS purpose. Love His purpose for YOU.
Be a gift, be a blessing. Be rational, dag nabbit.
