Progression, Not Perfection

When I decided to answer the call of God upon my life and return to college (specifically, seminary), it never occurred to me that there would be people in my life who would not encourage my efforts, and who might even be downright critical of them.  So, when I was first confronted with negative comments and hurtful remarks, it really knocked me for a loop.  I just couldn't figure out why anyone would be so harsh and judgmental over my determination to be obedient to the Lord.

As the months and years have passed, I have come to understand that people most often react to the lives of others based on their own personal experiences and their situations in life.  Those who are insecure or unsatisfied with their lives will be far more critical of individuals who are moving forward and growing personally.  I suppose it may be that the accomplishments of another person force us to take a good look at ourselves and assess our level of contentment with the life we've created.  Sometimes the reality is so painful that people may choose to tear someone else down in a desperate attempt to build themselves up, but success can never be reached by standing on the backs of others.

Recently I concluded a Bible study I was teaching on the first eleven chapters of the book of Genesis.  It had been an interesting study, to say the least, and it afforded each participant the opportunity to look closely at some of the biblical examples of the Christian faith.  On the final night of the study I asked a question of each student:  "What have you learned from these books in Genesis that you will be able to apply to your personal life?"  As we all shared and discussed the valuable lessons contained within that section of Scripture, one thing seemed to surface again and again.  Each one of us had been deeply affected by our study of Noah and the construction of the Ark.  We all agreed that the most impressive thing we took from that account of this faithful, obedient man was that regardless of all the criticism and ridicule he endured (and it was certainly plentiful), Noah made a conscious choice to obey his God despite seemingly insurmountable challenges.  God honored that obedience and blessed Noah and his family by saving them from the worldwide destruction that took place.

Tonight I look at my life and my choices to follow the path set before me and I am more determined than ever to see this through to its end.  Like Noah, I have no idea what my life will become, but I know that my God has given me a command to follow and I will do so regardless of criticism or ridicule from others.  It isn't easy, though.  I'm sure it wasn't easy for Noah, either.  Thankfully, I do have a few family members who have chosen to stand beside me and encourage me each step of the way.  Although they may not fully understand my decision to continue on this path, they do seem to value and respect my faithfulness in choosing to follow the Lord wherever He may lead.  I will draw on some of their strength along the way and one day I believe my "boat" will come to rest on the mountaintop God has prepared for me.

A few days ago my daughter made a statement to me that I will carry throughout the rest of my life:  Progress, not perfection.  I choose to progress.

"By perseverance the snail reached the ark." -- C. H. Spurgeon