We’ve been called to make an impact for good – to offer our strength to bring more life into the world around us. But in our zeal we must not get ahead of ourselves – trying to force or arrange the good we want to do. We must learn to boldly enter the work God has given us, while also knowing when to yield and allow God to open doors.
To be sure, this is the example set by Christ. God became flesh by being born in a manger. On the one hand, the Incarnation is a bold move, for the eternal Word to enter into our world and walk among us. At the same time, his entrance is with humility and grace, not with force and demands. In no way is the move passive. And yet there’s a gentleness that still marks his power. Even now, he stands at the door and knocks without busting the door down, clear and confident in his objective while waiting for the hearts of men to open.
It’s in this same way we should embrace our strength and calling. All too often we’re disconnected from our hearts and who God has called us to be. And this leaves us merely drifting through life and functionally castrated in our ability to bring life and goodness to others. We must recover our true identity and the divine purpose God has given us. All the same, this is not an excuse to become a bull in a china shop.
While it’s important to know who we are and feel confident in the strength given to us, we must still wield this power with grace and humility. And part of this means not assuming, demanding, or forcing our way into situations. Certainly, intentionality and effort are required. But it’s likely pride and entitlement motivating us when we feel we must desperately arrange opportunities to bear our strength rather than waiting on God to open doors for us to enter.
In the end, make the most of every opportunity to offer your strength. But don’t be blinded by pride. Serve others with grace and humility, not with force or demand.
Photo by Austin Lowman on Unsplash
