God has been teaching me something… something that I’ve “known” but now I’m finally starting to get it!

Here’s what He’s teaching me… “It’s not about me.” Nothing is!

Really, when I focus on me… my world keeps getting smaller and more frustrating, and impatience, anger, and pride rule the day. BUT, when I focus on others my world gets bigger! There’s more joy, fulfillment, love, and ironically… more satisfaction!

Let me share two ways I’m learning this lesson lately:

Fundraising.  This has been an amazing growing point for me. I’ve written before about this (click here to read “An honest confession about fundraising”). God has been pointing out to me that if I allow my pride to get in the way here, specifically by refusing to trust Him and His people to provide for us during this year, I will be a hindrance to the church He wants to start through us. It’s NOT about my pride, ego, desires, etc. It IS about what He is calling us to do and be.

Dating. Last night I went out on a date with Reagan. We got a pop (soda, coke, soft drink… or whatever else you may call it) and went down to the lake! She wanted to play in the sand/mud. I had some “Big People” stuff to do later (i.e. a meeting at church), so I sat on the dock watching her play. After her third or so invitation… I finally “got it” – “Paul, this is NOT about you and your stupid meetings!” So, I took of my socks and shoes and made mud castles, mud cupcakes, and mud buckets much to the delight of my date for the evening!
After I got over myself… we were dirty and wet but laughing and content! Reagan walked away with the memory of a dad who made mudcastles, but I walked away with a great memory AND a life-lesson… when I quit caring so much about myself I give more joy and find more joy! AND, I’m learning that it is in self-abandonment that we are most usable.

Here’s a picture of the little lady who is teaching me…