“In kingdom work, things have a way of coming back around! We serve a God who values hearts over titles and loves turning our perceptions inside out. Risk is the currency of good adventure. . . . Deep calling to deep. It’s what you were made for.”- Dick Foth
“For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. As Scripture says, ‘Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.’ “- Romans 10:10-11 (NIV)
“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.”- Jim Elliot
In Chapter 6 (“Stepping Stones”) of A Trip around the Sun, Dick Foth relates that, in 1905, his great-grandparents, Jerry and Sara Foth, left their small town of Hillsboro, Kansas. Because they chose to take President Theodore Roosevelt up on his offer to settle in the Oklahoma Territory. As a result, they loaded a wagon with food, feed, and supplies for the long journey. Consequently, Jerry and Sara left behind everything they knew- family, friends, all the comforts of home.
Certainly, Dick states, it’s always daunting to go from the known to the unknown. Hence, easy risk = an oxymoron. Risks never come easy. In addition, risks leave us exposed – and our personal identity goes up for grabs. Thus, risk taking really involves surrender. For we must let go of comfort for discomfort. And we release control, stepping out of the boat.
Above all, Dick notes, it’s a paradox to surrender to Jesus of Nazareth. Because it’s an absolute risk – and it’s no risk at all!
In conclusion, Dick exhorts:
“You don’t lose your life when you choose to follow Jesus — it is the starting point to the life you were meant to live. Why not risk it all and thrive in your lot with the King of the universe? It’s time to load up the wagon and head into your future!”
Today’s question: What does it mean to you that God values hearts over titles? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “The leading cause of failure”
