In Other Words

"The worth and excellency of a soul is to be measured by the object of its love."
Henry Scougal (The Life of God in the Soul of Man ), quoted by John Piper in The Pleasures of God

This quote has come at a very timely season in my life. Let me explain by explaining what happened about a week ago. I was riding home with Chris and I was feeling rather low about the state of my friendships. I didn't understand why I am always the one who must call someone to have a conversation or to get together and do something. "Why must I always be the one?! Is it wrong for me to want to be the one who is pursued for once? Is that selfish?" I thought.

Chris, who is always one to speak things as they really are, said "Honey, when there seems to be something wrong with everyone around you, who is the common factor? You. And when that is the case aren't we always the last ones we look at for correction?" HUH! Thanks Honey, that hurt! He went on to explain a certain behavior I've adopted that he believes has a lot to do with people not wanting to call me for activities. It is easily fixed by a simple change of heart.

You see, I can be pretty opinionated about what I do or don't want to do. I'll be hanging out with some people and we'll be discussing what we want to do next. If something comes up that I really don't want to do, I will usually voice my opinion not really taking into account the rest of the group. Also, I don't offer to help someone with a task if I really don't want to do it. Have you noticed I am not naturally blessed with the Gift of Service? My first reaction to Chris' loving correction was, "If I alwasy give in to other people's desires won't I come across as a doormat or weak?" "Maybe," he said, "But you want others to know that they matter to you and once they know that they will desire your company." Problem solved.

I see. If I fully give of myself to others, then my desires and/or needs for quality relationships will be fulfilled.

I have prayed a good bit about this lately and I can honestly say that I can already feel a change of heart. Thinking about other people and their needs is becoming more natural for me and I desire to help them all that I can. Even today, there was a major scheduling mishap with the church when it came to set up for our MOPS meeting tomorrow. Instead of getting terribly upset because my schedule was messed up, I was patient and willing to do what needed to be done.

As for the above quote, I can see now that the essence of my heart and soul is REALLY determined by where I put my love and affection. Through my love for other people and their needs I am understanding the heart of Jesus even better and allows me to become even closer to Him.

I am so thankful for my husband's loving admonition last week. At the time I was hurt and very resistant to what he said. But, now I am thrilled with all the future opportunities for me to simply say, "How can I help you?" I pray that the object of my love becomes other dear people more and more and through that my heart comes more like that of Jesus in whom I gain my worth.

Go on over to Laurel Wreath to read other Ladies' takes on this lovely quote.