A Time To Review #9

Getting and Losing

Last week, we looked at the seasons of getting and losing and found out a lot about choice and the Kingdom of God.  Today, we juxtapose these two seasons against each other to see what the similarities and differences they hold and to better understand them so we can know what to expect when we enter them.

What's the difference? Not much

The most obvious difference is that one is about gaining something and one is about losing something.  To get something is to pursue something we want to gain. To lose something is to leave a purpose or pursuit behind so we can pursue other things.  However, that's where these two only differ.   Each of them requires a pursuit with passion.  If I want to get something, whether from God or this world, i have to pursue it with my whole heart.  If I want to lose something, I have to be passionately about giving it up or I'll never let it go. 

These two seasons go hand-in-hand as well.  Usually when we are sparked to pursue something new, there is something going to be left by the wayside.  There are only so many activities we can involve ourselves in and be effective and there are only so many hours in the day to accomplish them.  We have to choose what's worth pursuing (getting) and what needs to be left behind (losing). 

The suddenness of gain and loss

It's not all about choices, though.  Sometimes things are thrust upon us and we have to embrace them.  The question is will we embrace this new situation with a God mindset or a carnal mindset.  When a medical situation is thrust on us, or a new financial burden, or a spiritual battle, we must have God at the forefront of our hearts and minds or we will get a lot of trouble for our time. With God, we'll take this new challenge head on and grow spiritually.  Without Him, we'll find ourselves confused and confounded in chaos. 

The same is true of losing.  We can have dreams, opportunities and people ripped from our lives at a moment's notice.  It is in these moments when having a relationship with God is paramount.  With God, we can come through the losses and feel at peace and even stronger at times.  Without Him.  we'll crumble when the rug is pulled out from under us by this loss.

The key of these two seasons is making the right choices and making sure our relationship with God is stable and strong.  These two seasons can hit like a tsunami: overwhelming and sudden with nowhere to run.  The only thing that can stand against the tidal waive of situations and losses is a healthy and hearty relationship with God.

What's Your Answer?

Do you feel that you have a strong relationship with God?  How often do you meet with God in personal prayer and reading of the Word?  Do you have a regular fast day?  Are you committed to developing and implementing the concepts of the Bible in your everyday life?  If so, what was the last thing from the Bible do you remember developing/implementing?  These questions are meant for you to self-examine and progress your walk with God.  Are there other things we should be asking ourselves?  Tell us them and your answers to the above questions in the comments.