Articles
I Am Concerned
I am concerned about my Mom and Dad. As they age I am very protective of them. I don’t want them hurt. I don’t want them to suffer. I am concerned with their health.
I am concerned with my grandkids. I am concerned about the world they live in. I am concerned about the mates they will marry. I am concerned that they remain true to God and His word. I am concerned about the local churches where they attend and the shepherds who are to be watching for their souls.
I am concerned, similarly, about my kids and their mates. I am concerned that they take care of each other. I am concerned that they sacrifice for each other. I am concerned that they remain true to each other. I am concerned that they set the right example for their children. I am concerned about the local congregations where they attend and the shepherds that are to be watching for their souls.
I am concerned for Jody. I am concerned about her health. I am concerned that as her husband I am leading her in the paths of righteousness. I am concerned that she not grow weary or tired. I am concerned that she continue to be spiritually strong.
I am concerned with the brethren in this church. I am concerned that we have significantly more at 10:50 A.M. in attendance than we do at 9:00 A.M. I am concerned that the period of assembly at 9:00 A.M. is taken for granted. I am concerned about their spiritual interest and being lulled by indifference. Why will we have 500 in our annual singing but 300 in a Gospel meeting? I am concerned about the children here and the marriages. I am concerned about the shepherds that are to be shepherding them. Are we watching for their souls as we should?
I am concerned about me. I am concerned that I not become bitter, cynical, indifferent, and lethargic. I am concerned that I not give up. I am concerned as a shepherd about the stewardship I am entrusted with. Am I watching as I should? As a speaker of God’s message, am I true to His book? Am I willing to challenge my brethren with God’s truth? Will I compromise?
I am concerned that I disappoint God. I am concerned that I disappoint those I love.
Wow! I am worn out! Overwhelmed! Please rescue me!
But wait, in view of all those concerns, I trust. I trust God to work in our lives. I trust God to care of my Mom and Dad. I trust God to lead my children. I trust my wife to be strong. I trust God to protect my grandchildren. I trust my brethren to do what is right serving the Lord. I trust myself to be true to God. He is able to do exceedingly, abundantly above all we think or ask (Eph. 3:20).
Now, I feel better. In view of all this world’s concerns, I trust God and put it all in His hands. As He provided the ram for Abraham, He provides the Lamb that takes away our sins. Trust God!
Rickie
