Looked in the Mirror Lately? – Part II
Looked in the Mirror Lately – Part II
Job 1: 12-19
As we finish our study this week, on looking internally into the mirror, I would like to zero in on critical aspects which we as men need to attend to if we are going to be a success in our work, as well as in our home. Initially, I would like to focus in on our home life by asking the simple question; if you are married: how are things between you and your wife? Are you taking the time to really give her your best or just the leftovers? Secondly, are you taking the time to have significant conversations with her and about her and not just about the children? She needs to vent about her disappointments, irritations just as much as you. You also need to be seeking to connect with her with your prayer life and your life with Christ together. These conversations, relationship builders and prayer time build trust, intimacy and a bond which keeps the two of you together even in the stormiest of seas.
With your children, are you giving them encouragement, time (both quantity but more importantly quality) values, teaching them about their future and their own spiritual life. Do you pray with them and for them? There is a real correlation between families that pray together and staying together. I believe this to be true.
Are you a good shepherd with the financial resources you have been entrusted with: spending, saving and especially tithing? Are you physically as well as emotionally at home?
How is your life at work going? Are you leaving it at the office or bringing some of it home? Are you tempted to act in a negative manner against a co-worker or possibly partake in an action which might lead to negative consequences toward your career or your family life?
Do you sense you are where God wants you to be: spiritually, emotionally, physically, mentally or financially? If any of these are out of whack you might want to get some professional help to get back on track. Are your thoughts pure and God centered or are you hiding a secret or two? Again, if this is the case, it is best to get some professional help to get yourself back on course, living the way you should. Are you being of service to another, showing mercy as God has clearly showed you? Have you done something this week, which will go unnoticed by everyone, except the person(s) you did it for. What are your priorities? Are they God-centered or self-centered? Better to be thinking of others then always thinking of what is best for you.
Would another call you a man of integrity, honesty and morals? Honestly known in such a manner is worth more to you than a million dollars in the bank. Because in the end, all you really have is your good name. Money and position are fleeting and can be gone in an instant. A great example is in the life of Job. He had everything one could want. Yet within a few seconds, it was all gone with the exception of his faith in God. He is a great example to follow.
As we spoke of last week, are you willing to risk yourself to another, in a transparent and accountable relationship? Too many times in my own life those I have counted on as accountability partners have seen the real me and saved me from getting into situations if I had proceeded, I would later regret. They have been a true life saver.
Lastly, is the man people see in public, is he the same man you know when no one is in looking? It is much harder to walk the straight and narrow than taking the easier and more self-centered route.
Until next week, I will be walking right alongside, encouraging you to act in a manner you know is the right, rather than the easy way. Keep looking in the mirror, it will show you the real you.
Walking along side you,
