effort factor
“His master answered, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful over a few things; I will make you over many things. Come and share in your master’s joy!'” -Matthew 25:23
What is the difference between someone who is making progress in their faith and life and someone who is simply progressing? What do you think will be the difference between Jesus saying “Well done, good and faithful servant” and “Not so much” when we get to heaven? I believe it’s the “try” factor.
There is definitely a difference between “progress” and “regression” in God’s kingdom and our lives. If we are not moving forward, the world continues to spin, so by default we will be moving backward. If we are stuck in old mindsets or old ways of thinking, it is unlikely that we will be able to fulfill God’s call on our lives. Many times fear and unforgiveness can prevent us from fulfilling our purpose. Regret means being unforgiving of ourselves, which can be a greater hindrance to us than any outside person or circumstance.
God doesn’t expect us to be right or perfect all the time – so what is the defining mark? Our “grade” in the kingdom is not about how many souls we saved or our church attendance record. It has to do with being open to God’s guidance and “doing the good works which your Father has prepared in advance for you.” (Ephesians 2:10) The defining factor is to persevere, not to give up, to remain hopeful in the face of despair, to persevere in faith when circumstances are weak, and to remain pure when temptations are great. When we at least “try” to do God’s will with the intention of serving Him, there is no way we can fail, no matter what the outcome.
Are you stuck in a dilemma? Pray today and ask God what you can “try” today. Maybe it’s picking up the Bible again. Maybe it’s a more active prayer life. Maybe it’s trying something in a different way again or trying something else entirely. Make sure you don’t stand still. God is always on the move – where is He in your life today?
