We live in a world where most people only seem to think about themselves, what they want, what they can get, etc. Which, to be honest with you, I do not understand anymore.
Yes – there was a time when I felt that way also. I’ve always (as long as I can remember) tried to be helpful to others. But at the same time I was often seeking my own gain in certain areas of my life. Until, God showed me that this was NOT the way to find True peace and joy. And when He opened my eyes to the reality that putting Him first and others second in my life would make each day much better, I began to let that impact my daily life. In fact, that’s what life is about – loving God and loving Others.
Jesus told us in Mark 12:30-31, ” And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” And, I’ve truly found that having this world’s possessions and riches do not bring peace and joy, Yet serving God and making a difference in other people’s lives brings more peace and joy to ones’ heart than most could ever even dream of. The “pleasures” of this world may entertain us for a brief moment, but at the end of the day, they leave our hearts empty and seeking for more. They will NEVER satisfy. Yet, for so many – that’s what they spend all of their time and efforts chasing after.
Recently, I was in the parking garage elevator at my office. There was a lady in the elevator with me. I pushed the button for the 3rd floor, and she hesitated a moment and then pushed a button and said; “I THINK that’s where I parked. I never can remember.” We made a couple of comments about how easy it was to forget things like that. And when the elevator came to the 3rd floor, I started to step off the elevator, and then reached into my computer bag and pulled out one of my “One Week to Live” tracts and handed it to her. I hand them out all of the time, just trying to brighten people’s lives.
The next day, I got the following email from her:
Hi Joshua!
It is the lady in the elevator from yesterday who thought she lost her car….yet again. I just wanted to thank you for sharing your story with me. After we parted ways, I got into my car and read your story before pulling out of my parking space. I knew what you given me was too important to wait to read later that night. Your story brought tears to my eyes…not in sadness, but happy tears. Your are a true inspiration! I love your faith and your never give up attitude. Our brief encounter has touched me so deeply. I have bookmarked your website so every time I need encouragement, you are only a click away. I have shared your story of faith with my husband and co-worker and will continue to share your story.
Again, thank you for reminding me what is important in life.
Stephanie…
That put me on “cloud 9” for the rest of the day! What a blessing and privilege it is to see God work when we simply follow His commandments. While I’m still FAR from perfect, everyday I spend serving the King of Kings gets better and better! And the same goes for you as well – the more time you spend just focusing on God and others, the more joy you will find in your life
In fact, the word JOY can be summed up by Jesus first, Others Second, Yourself last. That’s what the Christian life is all about!