It Only Takes One

Under1's purpose statement is all about focusing on the 1. 1 God, 1 Life, 1 Day. We truly believe that everyone is created by God with a unique plan and purpose for their lives. We truly believe that as Jesus describes the parable of Shephard and the 1 lost sheep in Luke 15, God relentlessly pursues us every day because we are that important to Him. We believe that we are only given this 1 Day and we must value and cherish it as a gift. However, there is an instance where we can't focus on the one. 

You know the phrase "you can't make everyone happy?" This hit me pretty hard today. I have the personality that regardless of the number of triumphs, success stories or forward direction, I will find myself totally derailed by one negative comment even if it has no merit. 

You cannot let the foolish words of one derail the work of God in your life. In Proverbs 26:4, we read "Don’t answer the foolish arguments of fools,or you will become as foolish as they are." It's our natural reaction to want to respond to accusations, comments, or negativity. But by responding, feeding into those thoughts and comments, we begin to neglect the work that God is doing. One negative voice can speak louder than anything else but as Christ followers, it's our job to shine His light in the darkness rather than promote the darkness. 

I'm not saying to completely neglect feedback or input from anyone. However, we have to put those comments through the filter of the Holy Spirit. We have to consult those closest to us to see if the negative comments have any validity. 

Negativity and criticism are bound to come our way. It only takes one to keep us from fixing our eyes on Jesus. We must learn how to properly respond to critics and nay-sayers. Knowing we can't please everyone, we can focus on pleasing the One who is most worthy by not buying into the lies of negativity and not responding foolishly in a heated moment. 

TIP: If you receive a message that gets you heated, give it 24 hours before you respond. 

///Bryan Ball, Student Ministries Director///

Comments

[Fred]

Sorry to piggy back on your post Bryan, but the title you used really rang true for me today for a completely different reason. "It only takes one" is so very true. It made me decide to try to help by being a 'one' and share the gentle poke I got today.

Earlier today, I was reminded that a simple thank you to a harried store clerk who helps you find that perfect present can re-energize to deal with the next rush. I won't lie, it didn't think about it before I said it, but I said thank you to the poor young lady that was trying to keep 8 different customers happy while the others in her department chatted in a small group. It is really sad, but she was completely shocked by it. I hope her jaw didn't get bruised when it bounced off the floor. I walked away hoping the other customers around me heard it and made it contagious.

1 Thessalonians 5 has two really good verses that jump out at me especially about dealing with people in stores this time of year.

5:11 'Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.'
5:15 'And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.'

I know it can be hard with all the stress at this time of year. We all need to take a deep breath and remember what this is really all about. If we can fix the real reason for the celebration firmly in our heart, we can share that love with others. One positive word can heal so much damage, restore the spirit and open people's eyes. It is one of the simplest and greatest gifts you can give and it is even easier to give it to strangers. Don't be a Scrooge - share this gift freely.