So many people live with great intentions. I’ve never met anyone who wanted to live a mediocre life. Deep inside of every person, whether they live in the slums of Africa or on Wall Street, is the desire to live a life that matters…that leaves an impact. Many people even set out on a journey to do just that. The social justice/humanitarian movement is a prime example of this. And, many people are making great strides to make the world a better place. But…many people start this journey…. And not many finish. 1 Kings 20:11 says ‘Let not the one who puts on his armor boast like the one who takes it off’. Starting the journey is not nearly as important as finishing it.
There comes a point in everyone’s life when they have a choice. Do I give in to discouragement, disillusionment, the frustrations that come with being misunderstood, or even exhaustion? All of these things are legitimate obstacles. But, how do you run with endurance, regardless of the opposition or cost?
The answer lies in your motive. At the core of everything we do, there has to be LOVE for the One who first loved us. Nothing else will be able to sustain passion.
When you love someone, you want to give them what they love. If your best friend’s favorite cookies are chocolate chip cookies… those are the cookies you make. Well, Jesus loves people! So…Why would I spend my life doing anything other than being able to present Him with the only thing He wants? PEOPLE! At the end of my life, nothing will remain except what I did out of LOVE for Him.
When I think of the road ahead of me…. My focus is always Him! Yes, people matter… and need to know about Him. I love them because I love Him! If I focus on people, I will become frustrated and overwhelmed with the very real need that is present everywhere I go. But, if I focus on Him, I will always be full – no matter how much I pour out. Keep your eyes fixed on the One who does not change, and you will never lack what you need to run with joy the course set before you!
