The Challenge Of The Risk Taker

Faith is the certainty of things hoped for and the proof of things not seen.

Hebrews 11:1

When we begin to walk our talk, by faith,  rather than only talk our walk, life may appear to be a bit risky: Laugh too loudly "for the joy of the LORD,"  and you risk that some might critique you as being too boisterous.  Dance "before the LORD," (Like David), and you risk being  publicly called a fool. Reach out and get involved in another's life, because of your faith, and you risk being rejected.  Place your ideas and dreams before the public and your risk being humiliated.  Stand for what is right when things are going wrong, and you risk persecution. Speak, as Paul says, "the truth in love," and you risk receiving something quite different from from love coming your way.  Risk loving others, and you may not be loved in return. So why should we even want to consider being a risk taker for the LORD?  Why would we want to ever step out in faith?

One anonymous person answers something like this: Risks must be taken because the greatest hazard in life is to risk nothing. The person who risk nothing, does nothing, has nothing and is nothing. Such a person may avoid suffering and sorrow, but cannot learn, change, grow, make a real difference or truly live. Sadly this non faith walking non risk taking person has forfeited a big chunk of freedom. (Not an exact quote.)

You and I have been given the privilege of denying ourselves, taking up our crosses and following Jesus. We are privileged to walk by faith in God Almighty armed with HIS precious eternal promises. I suppose we all desire to have the security of the solid tree trunk; however, all the fruit of the tree is grown out on a limb. The timid soul will ask "What will I lose if I take the risk?"  The fruit bearing Christ Follower asks, "What will I lose if I don't take the risk?"  Real living is lived out on the cutting edge.

So let those of us, whom Jesus calls the "salt of the earth," shake a little salt :o)  By the grace of God, let's risk putting some savor back into some unsavory lives. Let's deny ourselves and give of ourselves. Let's shine the LORD's light into darkened souls to help them, through Jesus, to light up their lives and get their lives back.  Let's give out the "bread of life" to those who hunger for eternal sustenance.  Let's share "the living water" with those who wish to drink and live. Let's live by faith, and let's do some risk taking.  Then let us ....

Be Blessed 2-day ... Especially 2-day

SoJourner