This is something that I have been told many times. Only recently have I called into question the meaning of this statement. If I am to seek the very best, I guess on the most basic level it means to not settle for what may be considered mediocre. Who judges what is mediocre and what isn't? Sometimes a risk is taken from one vantage point, but from another it appears to be the safe choice.
What can be better than seek what God has in store? Being willing to make the sacrifice and enjoy the riches of God's grace, is this not what is the best? No, not everything will come together right away. If I have learned anything in the last couple of years, it is that nothing is perfect. No matter how hard you try, you will sin; no matter how much you love your mate, she/he will get on your nerves; no matter how good things look like they may turn out, there will always be something to stand in the way. What is the very best then? Could it be that taking the situation that you have been given and seeking every opportunity for growth would be the best thing? Who knows what the best thing is for everyone? But we all have an opinion about the way we think our lives should turn out in some way. Maybe committing to God's plan is realizing that things aren't always the way they seem and that life must be lived by living and doing, not as much thinking and planning. "Many are the plans in a person's heart, but God orders his steps" has a whole new meaning. Think about it... We plan, and planning is good, but God has the ultimate word. We think and think, ponder, and hope, but it is God who allows the final say. This is comforting and scary in different ways. Comforting in that God, who loves us, has the final word; scary in that we don't know what that word is.
What is the last word? Could it be that all things are made new in light of the resurrection? It could be and is. Nothing is perfect, but all things are restored. Relationships are hard, but not hopeless. Decisions are difficult, but not insurmountable. Christ has opened the door to all the good things God has allowed for us. This door is life; full, abundant life. We all have opinions, and most of us mean well, but God has the final word and that is a fact. So with this in mind, our continuing thought is "Lord, have mercy." Mercy that restores our imperfections. Mercy that bestows grace. Mercy that helps us realize that God, the Lord, is our strength and shield. What is the best? Who knows? Plan, but know that God has the final word. Do, but know that it is God who will prosper or hinder you. It is in him that we live and have life. We are a people teeming with life because of that Easter day.
The Lord is truly risen!
You know you are a smart kid, I don't know who raised you, but they did a good job. I love you with all my heart!!!!
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