Joy from Caring...

I was reading some devotionals this morning and one of them kinda stood out to me. It talked about the joy we receive from showing concern for others. I think it all comes down to that little reminder I learned at a very young age in Sunday School... God first, others second, and yourself last. I think if we would all keep this in mind as we go through the day, we would all be much happier people! It's what we were created for - to love God and in turn serve Him and others.


The devotional talked about a book called "How to be Miserable". Here is an excerpt from that book...


"Think about you. Talk about yourself. Use "I" as often as possible. Listen eagerly to what people say about you. Expect to be appreciated. Be suspicious. Be jealous and envious. Be senstitive to slights. Never forgive a criticism. Trust nobody but yourself. Insist on consideration and respect. Demand agreement with your own views on everything. Sulk if people are not grateful to you for favors shown them. Never forget a service you have rendered. Shirk your duties if you can. Do as little as possible for others."


Then it goes on to compare it to Ernie Harwell, the former radio announcer for the Detroit Tigers. He was asked in an interview, "Is it difficult to broadcast a game? What's your approach?"


Harwell, being a joyful Christian, answered by saying, "The game is the main thing! Tell what's happening, and try to stay out of the way."


What a great way to look at life as well! God is the main thing and what He does in our lives is the main thing! The devotional goes on to ask the question, "What will be the "main thing" for you today? Yourself? Or Christ and others?"


PRAYER: "Lord of joy, help me get outside of myself and show concern for others today."


I challenge you (and myself) to constantly look for what God has for you to do today and do not look at what you can gain from it! What can you do for someone today? Put your concern for yourself aside and be concerned for someone else today and let someone else put their concern in you. God will take better care of you than you ever could! :)


Be a blessing to someone today ... and EVERY DAY!!!