I Remember This!

Remember when I blogged? Yes, it was a much simpler time... jk.

Man, how long has it been? Well, here is an update on life so far. Seminary has really picked up the pace, and I have much to do between now and the end of the semester. I actually took a break from my hermeneutics paper to write this blog so I hope this isn't considered being sidetracked (Yes, it is). Anyway, there is much to do, but the Lord is carrying me through by His strength. Through the overwhelming moments of my life, I can only look back and say, "My accomplishments are definitely not my own."

I think it's good to stretch yourself, especially as believers. You see Paul use athlete analogies, and you can learn so much from them. Athletes don't excel if they don't push themselves and train hard. The same is true for the Christian life. If life isn't pushing you to your limits, then you won't be able to mature spiritually. Yes, Kobe didn't become Kobe simply by watching TV. He had to be pressed.

Complacency brings death to your growth. Don't let your theological astuteness make you think you've arrived (As if you were perfect). Beloved, we will not "arrive" until Christ has purged us of all sin and perfected us in glory.

I need to remind myself of this because I'll be taking a heavier load next semester. I've been encouraged by everyone around me, and I know that only Yahweh will see me through. I'm helpless on my own.

I'll be busy, so make sure I don't neglect the ministry, okay? I hope that when the Lord stretches you, you will not sacrifice serving and loving His people for the sake of your own "convenience." May we be peopled "inconvenienced" for the Lord and for His people, so that we would put their needs above our own selfish wants.

Press on, beloved. Trust me. We can rest when we're dead. And in death we are comforted knowing that absence with the body is presence with our Lord forever. So keep running hard and giving it your all, and cease from coasting to the finish line. Stop living a mediocre Christian life. It will be so much sweeter in the end when you know that you gave it your all.

And the Lord will honor that.

Much love, homies.

-Micah