so...who has invested in you?

We've all worked diligently or hard at something in this life, and we've all received a variety of reactions from on lookers! 

Often, on lookers only see the end result of what has been done. All of the stuff in between has been experienced by you while the Lord looked on, taking note of all of the ups and downs, the hindrances, the failed attempts, and the disappointments. God was there, cheering you and I on through it all!

All of the things that the Lord God gave me to do have started with hardships first. Every obstacle lined itself against me, trying to push me toward failure. What kept me pressing on was the conviction deep within that I was doing what God had wired me to do. God gave confirmation along the way, and the set backs were only valuable stepping stones that added the polish and the shine, when all was said and done.

There is no way we can persevere with anything unless we are convinced by God, Himself, that He is in what we're doing. It's a terrible waste of time to keep plugging a way at something, not knowing if it will pan out or meet with success. 

First, in my opinion, the Lord gives us a deep desire and passion for a thing, so that we can pursue it. When there is passion, there is grit and determination to see something through. Without passion, you and I are hard pressed to accomplish or succeed at anything. Passion gives the drive that's needed to get over the hurdles while perfecting what ever it is we're trying to do.

A person with passion has daily discipline. A person with passion prioritizes and doesn't waste time. A person with passion is a doer not a talker. A person with passion is focused without distractions. A person with passion keeps their lifestyle uncluttered and free of useless activity. A person with passion says, "NO" to many things in order to reach their goal.

There is nothing more rewarding than to see your dream or aspiration materialize! You look back at what it took to get there and you are exhilarated and gratified with joy, because you hung in there despite all of the nay sayers, the lack of support, the criticism, and the harsh remarks. 

So...what does this have to do with spiritual things? Well...the word of God admonishes us to not be mediocre in what we do. We are told that whatever we do, do it to the glory of God, and as unto the Lord. In Scripture, we read that David was skilled in playing the harp. In the old testament we read about the men and women who made great contributions to the building of the temple using their talents. Some were skilled with wood, tapestry and so on. Solomon chose the best of the best to do the work that needed to be done. Only skilled persons get the opportunities! 

Never settle for second best! Whatever you do, do the best that you can do. Remember, we're not going for perfection, because no one can reach that high. God is pleased when we do our best. It will pay off in ways you wouldn't even realize. Keep doing the hard stuff, the stuff that no one can see, the sweat and tears stuff. You will reach your goal soon enough!

Keep yourself encouraged! Don't become depressed when you look around and see that few are supporting you, if any. It will be disappointing, but hang in there. Most of the men and women in the Bible who accomplished great things were by themselves. It was them, and God alone. The path to success is paved with loneliness, misunderstanding, isolation, and pain, but that's alright. When you begin to get a glimpse into what God is doing with you and the skill He so graciously gave you, you'll catch on and brace yourself, hunkering down for more isolation and loneliness. I know, it sounds like a crazy cycle, but it is how I live daily. I embrace it, because I see what the Lord God is trying to accomplish in me and through me. 

God has invested in you! Don't be concerned about anyone else but Him!!!! He will provide everything you need when you need it. Keep your eyes on Him, and you will see what great things He will do for you!! With man, some will want to invest in you 'AFTER' they see the outcome, not so with God! He takes us from nothing and works along with us until we reach success! He is our greatest supporter! He is the one who opens doors no man can shut! He is our helper! He gives good success! All we need to do is to walk with Him, faithfully, each and everyday, obeying Him, and following the leading of His Holy Spirit. This is how you spell 'SUCCESS'!

Commit your way unto the Lord, He didn't make a mistake when He wired you the way He did, or gave you the gift and talents He did. God knows exactly what He wants to do with you, in you, and most importantly, through you! Make good on His investment!!