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by Rich Miller
At one point or another, all of us have been faced with a particularly tough problem within our school, work, or personal lives in which a shortcut makes itself available. In moments of weakness, we are tempted to take this shortcut, and often times we do just that. When our course of action backfires, we learn--too little and too late--that no problem or challenge goes away unless it is attacked head on and faced with hard work and diligence.
Unfortunately, the same shortcuts that we are tempted with in our carnal lives are prevalent in our spiritual lives, as well. The major shortcut is usually where brethren tend to "pass the buck" to other brethren of the congregation, who most likely serve in leadership capacities. These let others do most of the Lord's word. We are told in Phil. 2:12 to, "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." Let us also remember that although scriptures such as Acts 2:38, Gal. 3:26, 27, and others promise eternal life to all who seek it, we must be active participants within the Body of Christ and not just spectators. Consider James 2:14-26 where we are continually reminded to add works onto our foundation of faith. Other passages to keep in mind are Rom. 14:11, 12 and John 9:4. In Revelation chapters 2 and 3, Jesus tells each of the seven churches of Asia, "I know thy works." If we take the time to mediate on these passages, we find that eternal life is something that cannot be obtained by continually trying to "beat the system."
Now, let us look at another familiar spiritual shortcut--perceived inadequacy. Some members of the body feel that they do not have the necessary tools, skills, or talents to be able to effectively work in God's kingdom. Granted, there are certain members of the congregation who, for example, have no qualms with getting up on the pulpit and presenting a lesson, while others hake with dread at the mere thought of doing such a thing. We all have our strong points. The idea is to FIND them and utilize them to let our lights shine bright. Also, we should understand that the common, ordinary Christians are the very backbone of the church! Elders and evangelists are richly blessed individuals who are "apt to teach" as well as lead, but they simply can't handle the entire load. Therefore, it is essential that all members within the Body of Christ realize their role, no matter how small, and carry out that role with diligence and faith. Remember, God considers every member of his flock of equal importance!
In closing, I offer two final passages for your consideration. Rom. 12:1 - "Therefore, I urge you brethren in view of God's mercy to present your bodies as living sacrifices holy and pleasing unto God; this is your spiritual worship." Gal. 6:7 - "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps who he sows." We simply cannot be found worthy of eternal life if we are always looking for a shortcut to salvation. Continually trying to do so is futile. Let us always press along to the goal, so that Jesus may say unto us on our day of judgment, "Well done, good and faithful servant!" (Matt. 25:33, 34)