“If you pursue the journey to dream wildly, live differently, love recklessly, and lead courageously all for the glory of God you will discover a life that is well-lived. Don’t just do something—become someone! Wake up every day and choose to be who God has called you to be.” Tim Mannin
What a challenging statement! Am I more focused on what I am doing in my life or in who I am becoming? If I am honest, it is much easier to focus on the doing. The things I do are evident and easier to check off of a list.
The becoming, however, is not so easy. Am I becoming a better husband, father, wife, mother, etc, than I was last year? These things are not as easy to measure. At the same time, these are the things that really count.
Even in the Christian life, if I am not careful, I can be more concerned about my gifts than about my fruit. Our spiritual gifts are important and they are the tools that God often uses to help those around us. At the same time, though, it is the fruits of the Holy Spirit that reveals our spiritual maturity, or lack thereof.
By all means, let’s develop the gifts that God has placed inside of us. Paul said in 1 Corinthians 14, “Earnestly desire spiritual gifts…” At the same time, let’s ask the Holy Spirit to develop his fruit in our lives. Galatians 5:22-23 lists these as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
May God help us to become the people that reflect his image well!
Annie and I are serving the Lord in the US, Africa, India, and beyond. Would you considering joining our team? Just click here to get involved. Thanks so much!
