"An Unwelcome Intruder"

     No place for self pity exists in the hearts of born again believers in the Lord Jesus Christ.

    "We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose" (Romans 8:28).

    "In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you" (I Thessalonians 5:18).

    Rather than feel sorry for ourselves, our Heavenly Father calls us to "know" and to "give thanks."  He would have us realize His loving hand of coordination in "all things" as He weaves the thread of Christ throughout the tapestry of our hearts and lives.  Upon this knowledge, we then express gratitude rather than sink into the misery of "Woe is me!"  This delivers us from the spiritual paralysis that ensues when life's difficulties tempt us to forget the presence and involvement of the God who "hath done all things well" (Mark 7:37).  We must view self-pity as an unwelcome intruder that should not be allowed into our sensibilities, and quickly shown the door when we realize we entertain this enemy of our soul.

    Believers also do well to encourage and challenge one another regarding this vital matter.  "Exhort one another daily" commands the writer of Hebrews (Hebrews 3:13).  As members of a body, we play a role in each other's lives that certainly includes loving, gentle, and forthright reminders that we do ourselves no favors when harboring even a trace of self-pity.  Most importantly, we besmirch the reputation of the Father whose promises of care and coordination fill the pages of Scripture.  "I am with you always… I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee" (Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5).  Self-pity embraced and expressed by believers sends a message that our Father is not who we profess Him to be, nor does He do what we affirm He does.  

   Let us bar the door to feeling sorry for ourselves, through remembrance of God's promise of loving involvement in all things, and through the faith that offers perpetual thanks for such grace.  Peace ensues, an infectious tranquility of heart that encourages others to "know" and to "give thanks" rather than bemoaning the challenges of life.  We further our Lord's reputation by such confidence and  confession, reflecting the true light of His perfect faithfulness in our hearts and lives…

"Whoso offereth praise glorifieth Me."

(Psalm 50:23)

"My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into diverse temptations."

(James 1:2)

Weekly Memory Verse

   "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness."

(II Timothy 3:16)