Bill Cosby once said that he didn't quite know how to be a success, but he sure knew how NOT to be one:  trying to please everyone at the same time!

Sometimes I catch myself doing just that.  I mean, isn't it easier at times just to "get along" with everyone?   Not be argumentative?  Be a "peacemaker?"

Jesus preached that as people committed to Godly ways, we are to be "peacemakers."  Doesn't this mean I need to do everything I can, including compromise, to "keep the peace" around me?  Didn't Christ also instruct us to "turn the other cheek?" 

Hmmm.   So why is it that I feel so "unsuccessful" whenever I try to please everyone else?  Could it be that my motivations to do so are improper?  I wonder...

I think the real key to proper motivation in my "peacekeeping" mission is found in Jesus' instruction in Matthew 16, starting in verse 24:  "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.  For  whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it." 

Perhaps if I take my eyes off of "me" and fasten them back on Christ Jesus, my peacekeeping might just take on more than just compromise, and be more meaningful; more "successful." 

And maybe that is what is meant by making Christ Lord of my life. 

Rick Trice - Raton, NM - 7/13/08