I’m reminded this morning of a saying that I heard about eight years ago. It was at a Steer Convention that I heard Elisa Morgan speak.
Amazing how a certain phrase can stick with you for many years – but this one remained:
“She Did What She Could”
Nothing more. Nothing less.
So many times, we set out to save the world – usually with good intention. But sometimes, it wasn’t what God had planned for you. There are many “good things” that we can do – but we were not always meant to do them all.
That is what I am feeling about the immigration problem that has been created in America. So many have been drawn in by emotions only – wanting to be a part of helping. Unfortunately, there is news out there that is filled with lies, with manipulation, with controlling thoughts, and we must learn to discern what is the right thing to do.
With the misinformation, we tend to leave God out of the formula, and work in our own might and our own ways.
And during my quiet time this morning, I was reminded of this saying. I have used these words to help me along my journey to stay focused upon what God would have me to do. It may be one simple act of kindness – and then at times, it becomes a group effort. I strive to do what I am called to do – nothing more – nothing less.
This saying is based on a story from the Bible found in Mark 14. It is about a woman who comes with an alabaster flask of ointment, of pure nard, very costly, and she broke the flask and poured it over the head of Jesus. A simple act and yet many became angry at what she did. Why? Because the ointment was very expensive. It is well worth it to read this short story: Mark 14:3-9
It is so easy to get caught up in chaos and conflict that surrounds you. And yet, you are not intended to battle in every circumstance. Be careful not to get caught up in situations that were not yours to begin with. Part of the problem today is that everyone wants to have a say in everything.
Think about what is happening around you. And then remember, you were not meant to take care of every situation. God is in control. He has always been in control and He will continue to always be in control.
I want to share a story with you today. It is simple and so very true.
It was about the time that I had attended this Steer Convention when Elisha Morgan was a guest speaker. I was a pastor’s wife at the time – new to the church. I was reaching out to many of the young couples – especially the young women. I wanted to encourage them and also to help them find their place in the church.
One thing that I have discovered over the years, is that the same few in a church always do everything. The reason behind it – “someone has to do it!”
There was a young woman who wanted to use her talents to help with the fellowship gatherings. She loved to decorate and setup inviting settings for those gatherings. She was elected to do just that. At the first gathering, she setup a beautiful table setting amongst other little special treats.
The problem? She had some women come around her and tell her she was doing it wrong. It had always been setup a certain way and she needed to follow the rules. She didn’t stay long in the position. Why? Discouragement.
She had been called to do something beautiful for the other members, but she was shut down. And then there was the talk: “See, it doesn’t get done unless I do it!”
Yes, a simple thing. But sometimes we step in where we were not called and we make matters worse. Sometimes we need to simply stop and think and allow God to work in the chaos and conflict. It always turns out better that way.
What is God calling you to do? It is always a good reminder – to do what God is calling you to do – you may be the one to plant the seed – someone else may be called to water the seed – and still yet, another may be called to harvest the seed.
Nothing more. Nothing less. Listen to His Voice and do what He has called you to do.
My Song: A little different – one that I had never heard before. And yet a comforting one – and encouraging one. Enjoy.