USED AND UNAPPRECIATED

I Was Just Thinking Random Thoughts About – ONE BEING USED AND UNAPPRECIATED.

 A few days ago, I posted a Blog on servanthood and mentioned how some have come to feel (and believe) they are being used and unappreciated (even under-appreciated). I was surprised when I received some responses that indicated their personal reality with those who are always selected and given recognition – those having to be the first among equals. The conglomerated expressed thought was that such an individual should be sensitive to that occurring and be willing to suggest that another person be given the privilege, recognition and honor. Most of the expressed views suggested they have not seen that happen. What they have seen is that they have been passed by and consistently ignored. Is it right or considerate if one is being used, unappreciated or under-appreciated? No! There is no way to avoid or ignore two of the many passages of Scripture that address how person “A” (and others) should respond at all times.

First, Matthew 11:38-30 (NKJV) where Jesus said: “Come to Me…Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart…” What should one learn from Jesus Christ? Answer: His gentleness and lowliness.

Second, Philippians 2:5-8 (NKJV) where Paul reminded fellow believers: “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus,  who…made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant…He humbled Himself…” What should one learn about Jesus Christ? Answer: To become equivalent to a bondservant and to be consistently humble.

Will the one(s) who desire and have the sense they deserve to be first among equals revisit these verses and modify/change their behavior? Probably – Not!

How should the ones who believe they are being “used” and “unappreciated” or under-appreciated act/react? Matthew 5:5, Jesus said: “Blessed are the meek…” How should the meek face life and the inequities of it? Matthew 5:12, Jesus said and implied that in all of life’s situations, choices  and experiences one should respond: “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven…”

Why should one rejoice? How can one do rejoicing when they feel overlooked and are rarely being positively considered? In Nehemiah 8:10, when people were being mocked, marginalized and threatened while rebuilding Jerusalem, Nehemiah reminded them: “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”

Will this be easy to do? No! Will it change the attitude and behavior of those who have shown negative behavior and said negative things to and about you? No! Will the one(s) who love being first (Matthew 23:5-6) readily relinquish that place for another? No!  Should you allow yourself the liberty to ‘get even’ or retaliate against those who misuse and abuse you? No! I love the words written by Charles R. Swindoll: “Unlike most influential, celebrity types, Jesus' description of Himself doesn't sound like the popular hype we've grown accustomed to hearing. Jesus was a servant, not a superstar.”

When I have observed these situations and when they occasionally have come my way, the words of a Hymn – Deeper And Deeper -  also come to mind and I remind myself and begin to sing:

Into the joy of Jesus

Deeper and deeper I go,

Rising, with soul enraptured,

Far from the world below;

Joy in the place of sorrow,

Peace in the midst of pain,

Jesus will give, Jesus will give –

He will uphold and sustain.

Let the joy of Jesus Christ fill, uphold, sustain and encourage you. He wants you to know and enjoy His transforming love and the fullness of His joy in you (John 15:10-11).

Prayerfully – consider these things with me.