Oct. 29, 2007 - Self-pity
Last night I read a quote by Amy Carmichael that I am still mulling over:
"If I make much of anything appointed, magnify it secretly to myself or insidiously to others; if I let them think it 'hard,' if I look back longingly upon what used to be, and linger among the byways of memory, so that my power to help is weakened, then I know nothing of Calvary love."
I feel rather convicted by this. Now, while I may not necessarily go around telling everyone about all my troubles, I do have a few close friends that, much to my shame, at times I tell them of difficult things in my life wanting them to "feel my pain" and feel sorry for me. (And, btw, my "troubles" are extremely small compared to most. I have much to be thankful for.) How selfish I have been in this! How self-focused!
Not that I think it's always wrong to share our struggles with brothers and sisters in Christ. But I know that my heart has at times not been in the right place in it. I am ashamed to admit that at times I have crossed the line of just desiring prayer and/or encouragement to feeling sorry for myself and wanting others to join me in it. I pray the Lord would help me to focus more on others, to be more compassionate, to strive to share the burdens of others. I pray He will change me because I cannot change myself.
Comments
Oct. 29, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by anewday
((((((Kristy)))))))))
Love you sister!
Oct. 30, 2007 - Untitled Comment
Posted by mandygrace
That is a convicting quote! Especially with some things I've been dealing with lately. But it's a good reminder that everything God gives us is for our own good and gives us the opportunity to show His power and love through us.
Blessings,
Mandy
