I haven't let the thoughts of others get to me for a while. A recent situation occurred unexpectedly and it threw me for a loop. I was put in a leadership role, inviting others to help successfully execute the task. At first, everyone was on board and wanted to help. Soon it became apparent one person realized they weren't in control of everything. And so it began. Negativity came first. Then subtle threats of disruption. Quite frankly, I wasn't surprised. My gut when first inviting this person to join the team was hesitancy. But, they knew the ropes in this area and I thought it would work. The moment I realized this was going south, I took myself out of the communication role. I can't say I wasn't angry or disappointed. But Jay quickly reminded me (after I warned him I was going to react as a human first, then calmed to react as a lay apostle!) exactly Who was in control of this. We so quickly forget He is ever present with us and responsible for outcomes we may not have anticipated. The project ended up being cancelled, which could be a blessing in disguise. His timing, not mine.
The Gospel from 15Mar2013 (John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30) shows us the faith Jesus had in God, not fearing the thoughts of others:
Jesus moved about within Galilee; he did not wish to travel in Judea, because the Jews were trying to kill him. But the Jewish feast of Tabernacles was near.
But when his brothers had gone up to the feast, he himself also went up, not openly but as it were in secret.
Some of the inhabitants of Jerusalem said, “Is he not the one they are trying to kill? And look, he is speaking openly and they say nothing to him. Could the authorities have realized that he is the Christ? But we know where he is from. When the Christ comes, no one will know where he is from.” So Jesus cried out in the temple area as he was teaching and said, “You know me and also know where I am from. Yet I did not come on my own, but the one who sent me, whom you do not know, is true. I know him, because I am from him, and he sent me.” So they tried to arrest him,but no one laid a hand upon him, because his hour had not yet come.
In Volume One, Jesus asks us to remain focused on Him, not distracted by others:
The Gospel from 15Mar2013 (John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30) shows us the faith Jesus had in God, not fearing the thoughts of others:
Jesus moved about within Galilee; he did not wish to travel in Judea, because the Jews were trying to kill him. But the Jewish feast of Tabernacles was near.
But when his brothers had gone up to the feast, he himself also went up, not openly but as it were in secret.
Some of the inhabitants of Jerusalem said, “Is he not the one they are trying to kill? And look, he is speaking openly and they say nothing to him. Could the authorities have realized that he is the Christ? But we know where he is from. When the Christ comes, no one will know where he is from.” So Jesus cried out in the temple area as he was teaching and said, “You know me and also know where I am from. Yet I did not come on my own, but the one who sent me, whom you do not know, is true. I know him, because I am from him, and he sent me.” So they tried to arrest him,but no one laid a hand upon him, because his hour had not yet come.
In Volume One, Jesus asks us to remain focused on Him, not distracted by others:
"My children rely too often on the thoughts of others. Children, you must think for yourself. The opinions of others are often flawed and have a worldly origin. Of what use is that to you? I want you to spend your time quietly, as much as possible. Do not discuss every aspect of your life. It is not necessary and often leaves you distracted and upset. Your energy is wasted in this way and there is that much less remaining for prayer. Focus your strength and energy on serving Me in your day. Before you speak, ask yourself if what you are going to say is of value. Before you offer an opinion, be certain you have given this thought consideration. Do not lead others astray, as I am warning you not to be led astray. Silence is necessary now, as we have said. Useless conversations add to the constant din of noise that leaves the spirit no peace. You will not understand what I need from you, dear children, unless you are quiet and thoughtful. Also, this quietness encourages My Spirit to rest within you, and you will feel that presence. You will then speak with authority and correctness. And you will begin to offer opinions and counsel that have value and direction, instead of merely adding to the noise of this present world. Be at peace now, in all of your troubles."
Lay apostles, there are going to be times we are tempted toward anger . . . when things don't work out the way we want them to. Instead of looking at a situation with a worldly view, look with a heavenly view. Understand the driving force behind events. Things may go adrift because the outcome isn't what He would want. Most importantly, ignore the thoughts of others who condemn. He sees us and our intentions as they truly are. It really is all that matters.
Thank you, Lord, for your calming peace and understanding when things become difficult. I couldn't do it without You, Jay and my girls!
God bless,
Bonnie
Lay apostles, there are going to be times we are tempted toward anger . . . when things don't work out the way we want them to. Instead of looking at a situation with a worldly view, look with a heavenly view. Understand the driving force behind events. Things may go adrift because the outcome isn't what He would want. Most importantly, ignore the thoughts of others who condemn. He sees us and our intentions as they truly are. It really is all that matters.
Thank you, Lord, for your calming peace and understanding when things become difficult. I couldn't do it without You, Jay and my girls!
God bless,
Bonnie
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