Being at Peace with what 'God Only Knows.'

Scripture Verses that Caught My attention Today: Acts 1:7-8 He replied, “It is not for you to know the times or periods that the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Observation: Sometimes we spend too much time trying to figure out what we don’t really need to know…and maybe aren’t even supposed to know. Worse, spending so much time doing such things often prevents us from doing what we really are supposed to do. In the passage above, the disciples wanted to know some info for their OWN benefit. But Jesus tells them to focus on the power they will soon receive to be Jesus’ witness (and therefore a blessing) for the benefit of OTHERS.

Application: Recently I read or heard of a famous actress who, now in her 50’s, said that at this point in her life she just plans to focus on herself and what she wants and needs. I’m not sure that’s such a good idea.

Now, I will admit that sometimes it’s possible to focus only on pleasing others to the unhealthy extent of almost completely neglecting oneself. But these are each polar extremes that should be avoided.

Only caring for oneself is, by definition, to not care for anyone else. Only caring for others is, by definition, to not care for oneself.

There must be another way, and Jesus says as much. The Holy Spirit provides a gift of power, both for oneself and in order that that self can be of service to God for the benefit of others.

It seems to me that this principle applies to many aspects of one’s life. The most important dimension is certainly Spiritual; if we are Spiritually healthy, we will be in a better position to help others Spiritually. But I think it’s also true in those lesser dimensions in life including physical, mental, and even financial health. The ways in which we steward those resources can be demonstrations of the thanksgiving we feel toward God for such opportunities. It’s also a far better use of our time than trying figure out the kinds of things that, as they say, “God only knows.”

Prayer: Lord, help me to be thankful for the opportunities you provide. Help me also to take advantage of those opportunities to be of better service to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

(Readings today included: Nehemiah 7-8 and Acts 1)