does the asian culture's emphasis upon frugality combined with the american culture's fetishizing of self-accomplished capitalism prevent us from giving generously? if all authority on heaven & earth has been given to Christ, and if we have been called to go fearlessly and boldly as faithful stewards, witnesses, and bearers of good news, why do we hesitate? do people hide behind the excuse that "giving" is not their spiritual gift? is fearlessness not the absent of fear but the action taken despite the fear, in response to a recognition of His sovereignty? doesn't perfect love cast our fear in this way?
i still don't understand what a "calling" is. aren't we all called to bear witness to the ends of the world -- not necessarily overseas, but in every capacity, in every field of work? because He is sovereign, and He has chosen this specific culture for me for His purposes. why does this sometimes feel like a burden? isn't His yolk light? where does guilt, obligation, and joy play into my motivations? how do i reconcile all these things
i still don't understand what a "calling" is. aren't we all called to bear witness to the ends of the world -- not necessarily overseas, but in every capacity, in every field of work? because He is sovereign, and He has chosen this specific culture for me for His purposes. why does this sometimes feel like a burden? isn't His yolk light? where does guilt, obligation, and joy play into my motivations? how do i reconcile all these things
“It is not that God's help and presence must still be proved in our life; rather God's presence and help have been demonstrated for us in the life of Jesus Christ. It is in fact more important for us to know what God did to Israel, in God's Son Jesus Christ, than to discover what God intends for us today. The fact that Jesus Christ died is more important than the fact that I will die. And the fact that Jesus Christ was raised from the dead is the sole ground of my hope that I, too, will be raised on the day of judgment.” -Dietrich Bonhoeffer
“Earthly goods are given to be used, not to be collected. In the wilderness God gave Israel the manna every day, and they had no need to worry about food and drink. Indeed, if they kept any of the manna over until the next day, it went bad. In the same way, the disciple must receive his portion from God every day. If he stores it up as a permanent possession, he spoils not only the gift, but himself as well, for he sets his heart on accumulated wealth, and makes it a barrier between himself and God. Where our treasure is, there is our trust, our security, our consolation and our God. Hoarding is idolatry.” -Dietrich Bonhoeffer
sidenotes;
books to read: cost of discipleship by bonhoeffer, mirrored reflections by chloe sun, let me be a woman by elisabeth elliot, & freedom + boundaries by kevin deyoung
little sister taught me stop this train by john mayer again & i finally got it this time :)
current songs: the world is bigger than you think, now the rabbit has the gun & letter to my ex acoustic version, tanya lacey < 3
also, can someone teach me walking bass
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