This Week #25 (2-22-04)

Hard Things
Sometimes we are required to do hard things. It is just the nature of life and undoubtedly a part of God’s design for this world and its people. Not many, if any, like hard things. We often go to great lengths to avoid difficult relationships, or actions we need to take because of some failure in our life or the lives of others. We choose to be non-confrontational even when we know the Father is urging a particular action on our part. Unfortunately, some things are just hard to do and we must do them anyway.
I thought I would share some of the hard things I have to do. Don’t know that it will help or encourage anyone, but at least I get to say them.
I find it hard to push people toward a more intimate relationship with God. Perhaps I shouldn’t, but the truth is, many folks get quite upset when they are called to accountability regarding their walk with Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit. If one has no desire to upset folks, which I assure you I have no desire to do, it is hard to keep talking about the same things, making the same emphasis over and over, and nipping at the heels of the wayward sheep.
I find it hard to preach sermons that cause the Sword of the Spirit to cut deep into the “innards” of our lives. I often say I preach only what I need to hear, and while that is true, I also know that the Truth I speak cuts wide and deep. . .and it hurts. Believe me, I know.
I find it hard to know that some people who are going through a difficult time, an illness, a troublesome circumstance, or have a need in their life, do not let me know about it. I hate to hear people say, “I know you are busy, and I didn’t want to bother you.” Evidently I have given the impression I am too busy to care. When one lloves someone, they never want that person to have to suffer alone. If I am ever so busy that I cannot be available to those who are in need, then I have lost sight of my calling.
Well, I could go on and on. . .but then that is the downfall of most preachers, they just go on and on. Sooooo, I’ll stop. I know you have hard times. I know you have circumstances and situations, problems and troubles sometimes. So, if I can help, or care, or minister, or llove. . .well, you know.

© Weaver 2004