Phase II of my job begins today. It is tempting to take my approach, tactics, and strategies and go to work. I know what can be done. The opponents can be manipulated into the right position to serve our ends. However, the nagging thought, obsession really, is one question. Is this what God would have me do?
The answer on one level is simple. “God can’t stand evil scheming, but he puts words of grace and beauty on display.” (Proverbs 15.26)
My question is a bit more complex. How, given the uncertainty and grayness of living life, does this directive play out? What should I do with the people who do not play by the rules? How can I respond to those who only appear to have my destruction as their motive?
In my world only results count. This statement is not completely true, you are supposed to win with teamwork, however the “team” does not always play by the rules and that is part of the game. Opponents can have their own agendas and that is fair. Critics do not have to state all the facts or even make their accusations based on what is known at the time. Cynics can lob bombs at anytime, in any circumstance, and without regard for the well being of anyone involved including their own self. The measure of my performance will be first on results, and then a very distant second on how I got there.
God hates this approach. It strikes against everything he stands for because my motive is 100% against what he stands for. In God’s kingdom anyone expressing faith in Him and the Son wins. Everyone that walks life in trust because of the Son’s gift at Calvary wins. All can make it and it has nothing to do with what they have, are, or will do! God is and does everything on his side. Our motives are an expression of our faith and trust on our side.
God’s answer is mine. If in doubt, one should paint grace and beauty at all times.
