Why you started...

A friend shared a quote that seems fitting for my step back into the blogging world. "When you think about quitting, think about why you started."

I never intended to quit writing. I'm not even sure how I only made it two posts in before everything started unraveling. The sad thing is that I didn't even need outside forces to tear down my resolve. I'm best at destroying things when I simply let myself get in the way.

It seems that I am not in control of my life. This will not be a particularly shocking revelation for you, reader. In fact, there are plenty of days when my lack of control washes over me just like it washes over you. Last summer, however, I entered a period where my lack of control became intolerable. I spent months agonizing over what might happen, what could happen, and what (most certainly) would happen in the days, weeks, months, and years ahead.

An important side note is that I am (generally) a rational person. I am quite capable of realizing that my thoughts and fears are irrational, but that doesn't necessarily give me power over them. I recognize "triggers" for my anxiety, and I know that caffeine is my sworn enemy. I have learned that healthy sleeping and eating habits are essential. I have also learned that while my heavenly Father does not WANT me to be anxious (see Luke 12:22-26), He can use my experience to teach me reliance. A turning point for me was when I acknowledged my own limitations and surrendered everything to the only thing bigger than my fears.

I will always struggle. There will be days when it is very difficult to remember that my life is in more capable hands than my own, but I'm hoping that I can get out of the way, get back into scripture, and get back to writing.

Humility

The verses in Matthew 5 are part of a much larger discourse commonly referred to as the Sermon on the Mount. In this sermon, Christ outlines the traits that are prized in the kingdom of heaven. Jesus is the best example of each trait because His life was an example of His teachings. If our daily goal is to become more Christlike, we will face challenges, but will ultimately lead fruitful (or salty) lives. 

Our first trait is humility.

Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit (humble): for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

I struggle with this one daily. 

I was an Honor graduate at the high school and college levels, and I have been moderately successful in most of my worldly endeavors. When my accomplishments are praised and rewarded, I am driven to keep pushing higher and harder in an attempt to surpass the expectations of myself and others. This is where it gets sticky. In my attempts to rise above, am I serving God, or am I serving myself? Everything I set my hand to should be done to the best of my ability in an effort to bring honor and glory to my creator. Being humble does not mean that I stop working to succeed. Being humble means that I fight against personal pride and arrogance, recognizing that my achievements are from God.  

Easier said than done. 

Christ showed true humility when He lowered himself to become human, and we see numerous examples of His servitude. When we forego personal recognition and self interest, we are able to serve others with humility. Without humility, everything we attempt is by our own independent effort and not through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. All Christian leaders need a servant's heart (see Luke 22:27). This week I will work on being humble enough to admit that I can learn from others (I Peter 5:5). 

How do I exhibit humility in my daily life? 

What prevents humility from being exemplified in my life?

How will I begin putting humility into practice?

"Humility is not thinking less of yourself...it is thinking of yourself less."

Salt and Light

I have spent the past few weeks pondering what it means to be salt and light in this world.

In the New Testament book of Matthew (5:13-16), Christians are described as "salt of the earth" and "light of the world."

13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.

14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Salt of the earth --

If a seasoning has no flavor, it becomes useless and is discarded. Just as salt brings out the best flavor in food, Christians should be working to positively impact the individuals they come into contact with.  

Light of the world --

The naked eye can see a candle flame half a mile away (you know you want to test it), and a city on a hill cannot be hidden. Like the lights of a city, Christians should be hard to miss. We are not meant to be visible for our own sake, but rather for the purpose of glorifying God. 

All of that is well and good, but how should Christians live out the role of salt and light on a daily basis? I hope to dig into that question a little deeper and hope you will dig in with me.