Gut Check

I had the latest in a long line of gut checks today - the kind most in my line of ministry experience on a regular basis.

I ended up helping someone today that did not deserve my help. I was eager in the beginning, but by the end of our time together, it was obvious that he was playing me for a fool, doing everything he could to suck me dry before moving on to his next mark. I don't consider myself a fool, but I like it even less when someone else thinks I am. It was hard for me to swallow my pride, but I sent him on his way with more than he asked for, knowing he had won the battle. It made me mad.

A friend once told me that dying for God was something she thought she could do - it was living for God that really gave her trouble. I experienced a little difficulty living for God today. I know for some people this would be considered a very pedestrian incident, not worth getting uptight about. Someone is probably reading this thinking, "Is that as bad as it gets where you live? Man, I could tell you some stories!" But it's not so much about the guys issue, but my response to it. I pray I respond better next time. "He must become greater; I must become less." John 3:30