By Pastor Melvin O. Marriner
Grove Church
As we look at ways to reignite the fire for Christ, it’s important to understand that there is some responsibility that comes with blessings, but sometimes we allow our blessings to make us respond as if they are burdens. We prayed for that job or promotion, now we are working 60 hours a week, dealing with disgruntled employees, or have become disenchanted with our supervisor’s demands, and we allow those things to rob us of our joy. We allow God’s blessings to overburden us when we do not keep things in proper perspective.
Blessings require work, duty and responsibility. Blessings also require us to rely on God for strength, guidance and wisdom. When these blessings appear to become real burdens, it is usually because we are relying on self more than God. We should not allow the blessings that God has given us to overwhelm us to the point that we call them burdens. God answered your prayers and blessed you with that job, house, marriage or child, but now the job is hectic, home repairs seem never ending, your marriage is in discord and your child is testing your patience.
When circumstances are trying or difficult, it is a good time for us to ask God what He is attempting to teach us, show us or develop in us. Sometimes, in difficult circumstances, God is just trying to elevate us to a different level, prepare us for more, or draw us into a closer relationship with Him. Can you think of something God has blessed you with that you now consider a burden?
Peace and power.
© Dr. Melvin O. Marriner,
September 2016
We invite you to join us at Grove Church, 5910 West Norfolk Road, Portsmouth, Virginia, Sundays at 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., Tuesdays at noon and Wednesdays at 7 p.m.
