3.24.2010

Boyd Bailey: Aware Of Reality…

“But the Pharisees went out and plotted how they might kill Jesus. Aware of this, Jesus withdrew from the place. Many followed him, and he healed all their sick.” Matthew 12:14-15
What is the reality of your situation? Are you aware of the good and the bad forces around you? How do you determine the wisest thing to do? We face questions of reality everyday and with the Lord’s leading we can well define and confront your reality. The gullible go ahead unconcerned, but the savvy seek the best way for the reality they face.

For example, has your health ever been compromised to the point of chronic pain? It may be time to take a step back and adjust your schedule, so you can get the necessary rest to let your body heal. Furthermore, have your relationships retreated to the point of nonexistence? Is it time to slow down and reengage with those who care about you?

If we ignore its instruction, reality is a painful teacher. We can do a reality check and become the better for it, or we can drive ahead oblivious to the consequences of our actions. Do you live in reality, or in a world no one else recognizes as authentic? Seek the Lord and you will see your situation more clearly. Christ is aware to help you beware.

Wise followers of Jesus learn to adjust to the reality of their circumstances. When your expectations become unrealistic you adjust, or you live in perpetual frustration. When your financial goals become unachievable you adjust, or stay a slave to money. When your career only maintains you adjust, or you languish in unfulfilling work.

Lastly, ask Christ to create your own reality based on the Bible. Embrace your calling to serve people, and opportunities will arise to invest in individuals. It is your humble service that solicits the grace of God to generate a godly reality. Be aware of what’s around you and then adjust toward giving God the glory in your new reality. Reality understood allows you to embrace change, reject fear and trust Jesus in the process.

“Suddenly the fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote on the plaster of the wall, near the lampstand in the royal palace. The king watched the hand as it wrote… Then Daniel answered the king, "You may keep your gifts for yourself and give your rewards to someone else. Nevertheless, I will read the writing for the king and tell him what it means” (Daniel 5:5,17). Daniel understood the writing on the wall: it defined reality.

What is my new reality? How can I honor God while facing the reality of my situation?

Related Readings: Genesis 13:7-11; Proverbs 22:3; John 3:3-9; Galatians 4:21

Source: Wisdom Hunters by Boyd Bailey

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