it's simpler than we think.

How easy it is to lose focus.

  

As Christian women we must discipline ourselves to be about our Father's business. Have we forgotten what that is? Sadly, it appears to be for many women in the modern church, playing "dress-up" while leaning closer to self-fulfillment rather than God's, has become big business. In many circles the focus has shifted from living a gospel-driven life to a business-driven life. I understand and agree wholeheartedly that women in the church are to conduct themselves in an orderly fashion, are to be well trained, able to teach, available to meet the needs of the needy, and so on... But, I am certain that as Christian women, more often than I think we'd care to admit, are distracted from our real purpose; to glorify God. I am taking a huge risk in making this statement for fear I will be misunderstood, but if we are honest with ourselves it is evident that our culture, even Christian culture, feeds the notion (consciously or unconsciously), that we as women must prove ourselves worthy in some area or another. This inevitably spawns a drive to do more than we are called, ignore "the call" because it isn't satifying, compete with one another, pick and choose who and what is worth investing our time in according to self interests, plus other unrighteous motives that creep in unwittingly. This self-focus is an epidemic today. Even in the kingdom {Matthew 20:20-23}; I being the greatest of offenders.

 Its time to remember that the Gospel is for the sinner--today. Everyday. I sin everyday. Yes, the Gospel is for me today.

Its time for me, for us, serving the all-encompassing God, to be content with what He has called us to, and to let go of what He has not. We were created for beauty and we were redeemed for beauty. A particular beauty that exudes gratitude, purity, wisdom and self-control. A holy beauty that stands confidently on, rests quietly in, and waits patiently upon Her Lord.

Forgive me Father, for taking my eyes off of You & Your beauty, Your business. May the meditation of my heart and the words of my lips testify that Jesus alone is enough! May this be the goal of women in the church today: to discipline ourselves in trusting Your words, that all we are and all we need has been fulfilled in Christ. We owe nothing but the debt of love to others. To do this well we must take the time to receive all that You offer us daily--the abundant Life. Show us where we serve selfishly, needlessly, and wastefully so that we may learn to allow You to serve our deepest needs. Then and only then are we, as women, equipped to serve one another in love, simply to bring You glory. Amen. 

"Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law." Romans 13:8


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