Mind of the Missionary
June 2019
“Brethren, be even more diligent to make sure your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble.” (II Peter 1.10)
Aaaahhhh, it’s summer!! It’s time to get away, and enjoy time with family and friends. I’m not a qualified travel agent, but I did look up some of the best US family vacation sites. You could choose Disney World-Orlando, Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Canyon, Gatlinburg, TN, or the sugary white beaches of Destin, Florida. Of course, none of these are inexpensive.
No matter how you spend your vacation time at the river, the beach, or in the mountains, don’t forget the One who made them. The biggest tendency during the summer is to unplug oneself from our daily routine of prayer, Bible study, and local church attendance. We use the excuses: “It’s not convenient!” or “I’m on vacation!” or “No one in my family will go with me.” Or “I don’t won’t to have to get up early for that!”. Unfortunately, they are probably the same ones we use back home. (OOOO, that’s harsh, but true.)
Peter, in verses 5 – 7 of this same chapter, makes a list of characteristics that we, as believers, should “add to your faith”. Then, he says, “if you possess these qualities…, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive…”. Notice, how Peter states it, “to keep from being ineffective, unproductive, and never stumble.” It is a diligence, a persistent working or an effort to grow in our faith. This isn’t working for our salvation, but it is a “working out of our salvation.” We need to understand that our growth just doesn’t happen. It takes an intentional decision on our part to become faithful disciples of Christ.
So, as you are with your families and friends this summer, enjoy it!! However, be diligent in walking with the Lord. “ And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6.9)
Until next month,
Bro. Lyle