This week, we continue our quest for an answer to the question, "Is it permissible to take an active role in being creative and fulfilling purpose, or must we wait for the Lord to direct all our actions?" I am of the opinion that not only is it permissible, but mandatory that we express ourselves in as many ways as possible, and I have published entries on this topic under the theme, "Put Me In, Coach."
Jesus was asked, “By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you authority to do this?” (Mark 11:28). If you stop out and do more than you are currently doing, someone will ask you the same question. Let's try to find a biblical answer.
SHOULDN'T WE?
Jesus instructed His disciples to love one another. How should we define or recognize this love John defined it this way:
If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth (1 John 3:17-18).
Let's expand what John wrote to include any need that a brother or sister may have? If we have experience that could benefit them, shouldn't we share it? If we have a gift that could edify them, shouldn't we express it? If we have a creative expression that could bless them, should we not produce it? Would God have to direct us to do these things, or would love dictate that we do it unless God specifically directs us not to do so?
LOVE'S AUTHORITY
When asked by what authority we choose to put ourselves in the game, I maintain it is by love's authority. I am a gifted teacher, so love is all the authority I need to volunteer to teach a class. Love will motivate me to go to school or read to become a better teacher. It will drive me to watch other teachers to learn from them to be even more effective. Paul explained what I am describing this way:
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself" (Galatians 5:13-14).
We are freed by faith, but we are to make ourselves slaves by love: "Do everything in love" (1 Corinthians 16:14).
One final thought: we don't offer to put ourselves in the game of life more often because we are afraid, pure and simple. We are afraid of missing the Lord, of getting ahead of Lord, or disobeying the Lord. I stopped being afraid and took seriously 1 John 4:18: "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love."
My fear was a manifestation of imperfect love--for God and others. My problem was not a fear problem but a love problem, so I asked God to expand my heart. Today, I write, travel, and speak in love, and I put myself in the game because the Coach, my magnificent Master, has loved me enough to use me. It doesn't get any better than that. Have a blessed week!
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