Christian Living

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Larry Lilly's Letter Wednesday November 28, 2007

I re-read Joe Cooper's story in Indiana Author's Anthology published by New Century (see my web site at bottom of page) and today as I read I was struck by his statement:

"One of my biggest mistakes in life, and most illiterates suffer this same predicament, is trusting people to be honest with you when you can't read and are at their mercy."

One of my late friends who was known around the world was labeled an opportunist by friend and foe alike. I knew this and also knew the difference between opportunist and one who takes advantage of people in dire straits. Several of us prayed for this man in the hopes that his legacy would become more powerful than his days on earth. He accomplished much good. Much more than I have or mostly likely ever will. Yet broken hearts and disillusioned people are strewn along each path he walked.

God given opportunities are marked in that they are beneficial to ALL concerned.

Any activity that fails to meet the above criteria is not an opportunity from the Lord for your gain and the other’s punishment through loss. It is as simple as the statement.

In Romans 14 and 15:1 Paul says this;

Romans 15:1 "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves."

The strong are made so in order that they may help the weak! Strength and weakness are contrasted in every area of life. Obviously a man with the physique of Charles Atlas ( I can't spell Arnold's last name) is using his strength wisely when he holds an elderly lady by the arm and helps her up the stairs. Or the firemen who rushes into a burning building, using his training, equipment and courage to save a trapped child hiding under a bed. Helping a person who is going to need help over months and years is a horse of a different color.

One of our ladies, Madonna Davis recently lost her aged husband to a long bout with cancer. In earlier times Madonna could not grasp the why of others staying at home and nursing their loved one through such a time. When Leo became totally unable to care for himself; to the surprise of everyone Madonna actually prayed and said: "I am going to give all of my love and strength to Leo until the Lord takes him." And she did over a very long period.

I caught a lot of flack from some friends who dared to criticize me for saying I admired Bill Clinton for refusing to sign legislation that was designed to make Credit Card companies even richer, as they ride on the back of financially challenged people to the tune of 34% interest. People who get into that kind of loan are mentally challenged and are taken advantage of by those who are strong in areas of finance.

Today, this week, sooner than you think you will be faced with an opportunity to take advantage of or to help a weaker person. And the choice is yours. Remember we all have to face God with our choices.

Larry Lilly Copyright © 2007 Use with credit.

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