July 2020 | Page 05
creating a low self-image.
This mental baggage may be strapped on us
even after we become a believer and continue to
hang there even when we serve the Lord. On the
outside, Elijah was a fiery prophet. But in the
inside, he was a man just like us with all the
weaknesses and struggles (Jas 5:17).
This low self-esteem coupled with a sense of
defeat can cripple us in our work or ministry. A
small failure can discourage us to the core. When
something happens contrary to our plans, we
might be tempted to abandon the cause
altogether.
That is why God focuses on the inner
transformation of our being. The old self is being
transformed into the likeness of Jesus Christ. We
are becoming more and more like Jesus. In
Christ, God has loved us and accepted us.
Even though Elijah performed mighty
miracles, he felt that he was defeated. Jezebel
could not be dislodged from the throne, nor was
she humbled. This created an illusion of defeat
which is actually not the case. Though Jezebel
could not be subdued, the prophets of Baal were
slaughtered. The faithful remnant of Israel would
have been overjoyed. The remaining prophets of
God would have seen a ray of hope dawning in
Israel. Elijah was gaining grounds. In fact, he had
written its first chapter. But in God's plan, there
were other people who would finish that.
Obedience alone matters. God doesn't
measure achievements as we do. Our so called
concept of success and failure is entirely different
from God's.
Our failure can be God's success. So, as
children of the Most High and His servants, let us
listen to His voice and obey Him. We are never
called to be successful but faithful. Hence let us
focus on Jesus Christ and continue to do His
bidding.
This makes us good and faithful servants of
the Master.
3) Lack of Justice and Fairness Can
Discourage Us
www.bymonline.org
It is natural to expect fair treatment in this
world. But we should not forget that we live in a
fallen world. Sometimes we are treated fairly and
other times not. Sometimes justice is possible and
at other times it is not. But the God of Justice will
judge everyone in His time.
Whether we are in a secular organization or
a spiritual one, expecting a perfect system may
lead us to discouragement. I find people jumping
from one company to other because they are not
treated fairly. In a similar way, people jump from
one church to another, one organization to
another. But I wonder whether they would be
treated fairly in the next place. It is the same
story in marriage as well. Many expect a fair
treatment and are discouraged.
We all have a sense of justice. This is a gift
from God. But to expect fairness in all aspects of
life is merely utopic. We are living in a fallen world
and we build organizations with limitations.
There are no perfect systems or organizations in
this world. Every institution has its own positives
and negatives.
Some people of God look at a 'great man' of
God and admire him. But when that 'great man'
commits a sin, they are shaken to the core and are
disillusioned and discouraged.
If God puts you in a situation where you face
inequality and injustice, ask God for His guidance
as to what you need to do. History is full of people
who worked within the systems and brought-in
organizational changes and institutional reforms.
So instead of pointing fingers at the present
things and persons, pray and proceed on as what
you can contribute for the people around you.
Elijah was sailing in the same boat. He did
not like what he heard and witnessed. He prayed
for a revival and God started to work. But here is
the catch. Elijah wanted God to work in a certain
way, his way. He wanted Jezebel to be punished in
his life time. Elijah slightly ran before God.
Is this not the case with many of us? We
expect God to work in a particular way, and when
that doesn't happen, we are discouraged.
Beloved, even with the best intentions and
motives, we may miss God's timing and leading.