It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. - Philippians 1:15-18
Today’s Reading: Isaiah 23-25; Philippians 1
As I was growing up I put a ton of weight on people’s intentions. For me it was all about what was in a person’s heart. We all make mistakes right? But did you intend to hurt me or did it happen on accident?
My perspective on that has changed a bit.
I still believe that it is important that we come from a good place with how we live our lives but I also understand that there is a balance to be struck. It doesn’t do anyone much good if you mean well but don’t do well.
Life is more about what you do than what you meant to do.
But there has always been something about this that didn’t sit well with me. What about the people who are using good causes to get ahead? They are the types who use charity, religion, and goodwill as a hustle. As with any good hustler of course your rap has to be strong right? So is there any good to be found in that? Is there any benefit to the hustling preacher using the Bible to line his pockets by unsavory means?
I see what Paul is saying here but I don’t think I’ve reached his level of faith yet. Actually I’m pretty far from it. I’d much rather do without those folks who lack sincerity.
But I guess that’s why I’m not in charge of things isn’t it? If left up to me all of the lives that those hustling folks have affected in a positive way would have been left untouched; all because I am sensitive to folks trying to get over on innocent bystanders.
They say that all works out for the good of those who love the Lord. I guess I gotta trust that this is true. Paul seemed to think so, so I guess I can too.
It’s a pretty big leap of faith for me though.
Hello Man of God, I feel you on this. It does take "great faith" to walk out this type of lifestyle. However, in the statement "If left up to me all of the lives that those hustling folks have affected in a positive way would have been left untouched."
ReplyDeleteNo that's not your portion. I believe God has some great plans for you. Nevertheless, anybody getting dogged by scandalous preachers and such is not God's perfect will, but God turns situations around for those who will continue to press toward God. I believe God permits certain situations tho and even uses the enemy for that purpose.
Even Paul said "he would pray and turn certain individuals who refused to change over to satan for the saving of their souls."
My point is some people just don't get it until all hell is breaking loose, and they're hurting. Then they cry out to God and change. Everything has a purpose, even the corrupt preacher.
At the end of it all, God is the one who still rules and reigns SUPREME above all else. God has the final say. My stand is agreeing with what God said.
Much Love
You are right. That really is God's responsibility. It's really interesting that all of these things fit in to God's purpose... and that purpose is way too grand for me to pretend to grasp. All I gotta do is listen and obey with each step forward. We're all following God in the big scheme of things anyway.
ReplyDeleteNice comment!
Interesting!!
ReplyDeleteI understand Paul. I understand you as well.
I.e., giving money to charity. Needed, correct? But what if the money is given as a publicity stunt for Big Business. The charity get short term assistance because the business needed to create some feel good press around themselves. Or the charity solicited the money because they could, giving only 10% to the charity and the rest going toward "charity administration."
Either way, a good deed and the charity benefits right? But the underlying intentions behind the charitable contribution, not so bueno.
So like you said, are those that achieve from insincere intentions but have actions that benefit their neighbor deserving of punishment for their lack of honesty?
My book, uuuuh YUP. Again like you said, it isn't our book.
I rest in knowing God and the universe sees all. Maybe not when I'd like, for sure though it's seen. Where action needs to be taken it will be.
It would though be nice to be a fly on the wall...just once.
Interesting CM.
@alegria I'd like to be a fly on that wall too. I do fear that I would see all kinds of things that I may not want to see. You know... like them wack folks being forgiven... haha got some growing to do my friend.
ReplyDeleteTrue, I will having growing to do as long as I'm alive...
ReplyDeleteAnd true the wack may be "forgiven". Though how long will God forgive those making reoccurring insincere selfish choices before bringing down the wrath?
I know for sure, I won't be the one to find out the answer to this. To be a fly on the wall though, for the one that does...