Dwell on the Positives

8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world. 9 God, whom I serve with my whole heart in preaching the gospel of his Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you 10 in my prayers at all times; ~ Romans 1-8-10a

Last year, I was fortunate enough to not only visit my nephew at Walter Reed National Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland and see firsthand the sacrifices that some of our military men and women have made to protect our freedoms here in the United States, but also to visit the Arlington National Cemetery and see the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown.  The thing I took away with me that I remember most is the attitude of these surviving military men and women who, although they have sacrificed so much, would do it all over again out of their love for this country – knowing that they had made a difference through what they had sacrificed.  They also bonded with each other and gave moral support to each other during their recoveries.

Paul traveled extensively and was not always treated well when delivering the Good News throughout the countries of his time.  He didn’t dwell on the negatives of his ministry, but delighted in the positives.  He especially remembered those of new and strong faith in his prayers always.  Their faith showed that he was making a difference in the world to further the message of Christ to all that he was able to during his lifetime.  He longed to visit them in person and get to know them on a personal level as well, instead of just from the stories of their faith that he received.

We, as Christians, are to rejoice in the faith we share and serve God wholeheartedly as well.  We need to remember to hold each other up in prayer at all times as we continue to do the will of God in this crazy, mixed-up world we live in.  We need to not dwell on the negatives we see, but concentrate on the positives and continue pushing forward in our faith daily, knowing that we are making a difference to further the kingdom of God.  Our Christian “family” is growing!  Let us get to know one another better as we serve out our faith in His name.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We remember the many sacrifices that have been made for us to be able to be called Your children.  We rejoice and thank you for the many people over the centuries that have continued to carry the message of Christ throughout the world so that Your kingdom continues to grow.  Use us as You will to continue the work these Christians before us faithfully passed on to us so that future generations will also come to You in faith and thanksgiving.  Amen.

 ~ Wendy Miller