How are we to deal with others' spiritual expectations of us? How do we respond when others make judgments about our habits, our involvements, our ideas?
We cannot be controlled by the opinions of others. But neither can we trust ourselves. We all know others whose lives are wrecks, but are not open to any sort of correction or suggestion. "Don't tell me how to run my life", they say, as their lives fall apart in shambles. However, we are no different from them. In our hearts, we too resent others’ meddling. We too have defects which we ignore, and which cripple us.
In order to grow spiritually,
we must conscientiously welcome suggestions from others. We must resist
our natural tendency to excuse and justify ourselves. But every
suggestion or criticism which we receive, we must take before the Lord.
"Lord, are you speaking to me through this person? If so, please
empower me to change, for apart from You I can do nothing." Then,
rest in Him, for the rest is up to Him. If the Lord was indeed in
the suggestion, then the Lord’s Spirit will settle upon you and raise you
up as you wait upon Him.
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Last Revised: March 20, 1999 |