As I observe the various individuals on the news that represent our President
and our government, I can't help but wonder how they achieved the position
they hold. Ever wonder what it is that makes it possible for an individual
to reach a high ranking office? I'm always curious about the type of training
they received, or even the experiences they went through that prepared
them for being chosen for such important responsibilities. On a spiritual
note, what would you say is God's training plan for us?
Genesis 41:39-40, "And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Forasmuch as God hath
shewed thee all this, there is none so discreet and wise as thou art:
Thou shalt be over my house, and according unto thy word shall all my
people be ruled: only in the throne will I be greater than thou."
Within God's plan, every experience is basic training for the future!
Such training
requires us to strip away the non-essentials, to give up whatever endangers
our relationship with the Lord. We're all familiar with how Joseph rose
quickly to a high ranking official, from prison walls to Pharaoh's palace.
His training for this important position involved being first a slave
and then a prisoner. In each situation he learned the importance of serving
God and others... Ladies, whatever your situation today, no matter how
lowly or undesirable, consider it part of your training program for serving
God!
Psalm 78:70-72, "He chose David also his servant, and took him from the
sheepfolds: From following the ewes great with young he brought him to
feed Jacob his people, and Israel his inheritance. So he fed them according
to the integrity of his heart; and guided them by the skilfulness of his
hands."
Within God's plan, our past experiences may be put to unique and effective
use. Although David had been on the throne when this particular psalm
was written, he was considered a shepherd, and not a king. Shepherding,
a common profession in Biblical times, was a highly responsible job. Spiritually
speaking, it is as well! As you know, the flocks were completely dependent
upon shepherds for guidance, provision, and protection. Because David
had spent his early years shepherding, this was training ground for the
future responsibilities God had in store for him. When he was completely
ready for active duty, God took him from caring for sheep to caring for
Israel, God's people. Integrity filled David's heart, skillfulness flowed
through his hands... Ladies, preparation always meets opportunity. Your
first assignment might be just around the corner! Don't treat your present
situation lightly or irresponsibly; it may be God's training ground for
your future...
1 Tim. 4:7, "But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself
rather unto godliness."
God's plan requires our willingness to be spiritually trained. Would you
say you are in shape both physically and spiritually? If not, are you
willing to go through whatever exercise is necessary to increase your
stamina, your integrity and skill? The essential disciplines of prayer,
Bible study, and worship equip us to run with vigor and stamina... Have
you forsaken the basics? In our society, much emphasis is placed on physical
fitness, but spiritual health (godliness) is even more important! Our
physical health is susceptible to disease and injury, but faith can sustain
us through all types of tragedies. To be spiritually "fit," we must develop
our faith by using our God-given abilities in the service of the local
church. Train diligently - your spiritual progress is dependent upon it!
Effort is required... Are you busy developing your spiritual muscles??
Are you prepared to handle any crisis? Can you stand against spiritual
terrorism? When it comes to spiritual warfare, are you among the first
to fight?
2 Tim. 4:1-2, "I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus
Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his
kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove,
rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine."
God's training plan requires Christians to thoroughly prepare the next
generation! This is our God-given special duty to produce some Green Beret
for the Lord...
As Paul reached the end of his life, he could look back and know he had
been faithful to carry out God's mission. Now it was time to pass the
torch to the next generation, to prepare godly, courageous leaders to
take his place so that the world would continue to hear the life changing
message of Jesus Christ. Timothy was Paul's cadet, a product of Paul's
faithful teaching, discipleship, and example. Because of Paul's work with
many believers, including Timothy, the world is full of believers today
who are also faithfully carrying on the work of God. What legacy will
you leave behind, dear lady? Whom are you training to carry the Lord's
torch? Whom are you motivating to continue marching with the King of Kings
to the end? It is our responsibility to do all we can to keep the gospel
message alive for the next generation!
Never underestimate the importance of basic training...
God Bless,
Pam
Isaiah 60:1&2
Copyright 2001 Pamela A. Iannello
