I don't know about you, but life is not always the proverbial bowl of cherries. We all have goals, wishes, and desires. Sometimes those things come to fruition and sometimes they don't. Sometimes the result is the direct consequence of what we have either done or not done. On the other hand, the result is often due to circumstances either we don't understand or over which we have little control. We often perceive the disappointments as personal failures. We internalize those feelings and end up feeling frustrated, angry, and depressed. If these emotions are not soon checked, the emptiness inside grows, the sun doesn't shine quite as brightly, and there is seldom a moment when we aren't ruminating over every detail of the situation. Self- doubt exponentially rises. Confidence wanes. You are embarrassed and don't want to discuss it. After all, no one really understands.
Sounds pretty serious, doesn't it? Only a horrible tragedy could prompt such an emotional response. Or, perhaps it could triggered be the end of a long relationship or trouble in your marriage. Or, maybe it could result from playing a game at your best and "losing", managing to come in a disappointing finish. Don't laugh. It could happen. In fact, it did happen.
A few weeks ago, I played in a local poker tournament and the first place was a seat in the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas this summer. Yeah, the one on TV. I played my heart out. Winning hands and raking in the chips. But, I came in a disappointing 22nd place. My wife is great. She congratulated me for beating out 478 other people that day. I was still disappointed none the less.
On an intellectual basis, I know my game was not "bad". I am pleased I was able play against some of the best players in Arizona. But, fact of the matter is, I don't like getting beat and I now know I can play with the best and hold my own. I have done it before. I do not feel I have ever played up to my potential. It is extremely frustrating. So, what should my response be?
Philippians 3:13b and 14. "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus". Reading on, verse 15 and 16 say, "All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too will God make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained." The time I spend with Jesus is extremely important. He has a way of putting things in perspective through the Bible. In the big picture, the prize for which I am to strive is fullness in my relationship with Christ. It has to do with my personal relationship with Him and displaying practical Christianity to those around me. Yes, part of my Biblical responsibility is to be "whole-hearted" in all I do. We have a definite responsibility to maximally use the talents and gifts God has given us. Why? To direct honor and praise to Him. Will my 22nd place finish in a tournament have any eternal significance? I doubt it. But, can my response to that finish either positively or negatively reflect on the reality of Christ in my life? You bet.
Next week ... lessons learned ...
