Improperly Aimed Zeal

It is amazing how the LORD chooses to instruct us when we least expect it.

Today, on an impulse that I didn't really think about at the time, I offered to help a family friend to do some weeding. Little did I realize God had decided I needed some counseling.

I won't risk boring you with needless details, I'll just give you the 'lesson' learned through the conversation we ended up having.

It was mainly about the Hunger Games. She didn't change my opinion about the book, but she did point out something that struck me as being the 'Reason' for the Holy Spirit guiding us into the conversation: 'the problem is not the book'.

She pointed out that the things I didn't like about the 'craze' going on about the Hunger Games was not the 'problem' that should retain my focus, they are merely the 'symptom of the real problem' - which is the need for God, and the compassionate preaching of the Gospel of Christ.

The Salvation of our Redeemer and King, Jesus Christ, is the only thing that should command my focus and zeal.

And, to be honest, I have fallen short of the goal of 'focusing on the LORD' far too often lately when it comes to peoples' entertainment choices . . . So for any who may have read/heard my opinions/rantings on the Hunger Games -- or other works of fiction (i.e. movies, games, books) -- please know that my opinions have not changed/weakened, but I would like to inform you that I am now under the conviction that (unless you ask a direct question) I should no longer 'bother' you with my opinions if they are negative in the sense that 'I think this is something everyone should classify as bad'. . . .

My only response in that case will be one of two things: 1) I will change the subject to Christ or something Christ-related. Or 2) I will remain silent and merely pray for God's grace in both/all our lives. . .

A Prayer:
              Thank you, LORD, for your discipline and instruction. I thank you for the wisdom and understanding you have provided to Mrs. H.
             Please continue to teach and guide me to greater zeal for Your Holiness, God, and soften my heart to be compassionate for the people around me. I ask that You please continue to humble me when I begin to show pride or arrogance and get sidetracked on things that ultimately do not matter in the grand scheme of our aiming to praise, honor, and glorify You in everything that we do.
             In the precious name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen. . .