Christian Living

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Larry Lilly's Letter Wednesday June 9, 2010

Almost Forty years ago I went to visit a preacher who was far more successful than I was or will be. I was heavy hearted as I had heard some vicious rumors about him and he was a dear friend.

After the normal greetings, I went right to the point and said that Rev. So and So was spreading rumors and I wanted to pray with my friend. In the course of conversation I asked, "Are you going to refute these rumors with the truth?" My friend who was much older than me said; "No. No I am not going to refute the rumors Larry and I will tell you why. The truth is worse than the rumors." He did not explain and for some reason I did not demonstrate my lack of social graces and ask for details. I don't know the details and could care less. He did say "I did some things for which I am ashamed, I still wrestle with accepting forgiveness but Jesus has led me by the hand and given me a great life of service. I am thankful beyond words and I must continue the work."

I hadn't thought of my friend for years as he has passed on. The other night while I was preaching on the "Juniper Tree" experience of the mighty prophet, Elijah I noted that God had dealt with His overwrought prophet and even though Elijah was still holding the appalling attitude that he alone was the only true prophet, God entrusted very important work to him. Elijah was to anoint two kings whom God would use to chasten Israel and also find his own successor, Elisha. Please note that Elisha did twice as many miracles as Elijah.

The point of my speaking about this was simple: If you wait until you reach perfection you will never do anything. And even more important to chew on is the fact from Elijah's experience; If God waits to send only perfect people, no one will ever be sent, as God has already sent the only Perfect ONE and He bought us on Calvary with His own blood.

Another point is simple: One of the best ways to get right on the inside is to obey God, leave the consequences to Him, and help someone to get going. (Charles Stanley). Charles Mayo co-founder of Mayo Clinic used the above principle when people suffering with depression would come to the clinic. Dr. Mayo after a few days of evaluation would lead them to the door and state; "Now go out there and help someone." When we get serious about others we discover that we are automatically getting over self.

Jesus gives us a little insight into the principle in John's gospel when He instructs the disciples that they (we) are to grasp the truth that we are not sent to be served, but quite the opposite and when this is taken to heart we do better in life. John 20:21:

"Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you."

Larry Lilly Copyright © 2010 Use with credit

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