Sometimes it seems that everyone opposes what we’re inclined to do, and yet we know we should do it anyway. Noah certainly found himself in this dilemma. And this can happen to us too (although, it’s not to the same degree). But when we believe that the Lord would have us do something contrary to what others do or tell us to do, how can we go man’s way?
Need some supporting scriptures? “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” (Proverbs 14:12) “Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the heart.” (Proverbs 21:2) “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.” (Proverbs 12:15) “Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, and shrewd in their own sight!” (Isaiah 5:21)
So, if you believe it is wiser to do something contrary to the “world’s” way of doing things, do it anyway! Don’t let other’s opinions hold you back if you believe you should do something (as long as it lines up scripturally).
With this said, here’s something Mother Theresa wrote on this matter. We encourage you to read her statements and talk about it together with your spouse (if possible). You can even use it on a “22 Minute Date” time. (See the link for an explanation.) Prayerfully read each quote and accompanying scripture and share your thoughts (especially as it pertains to marriage). And even if your spouse can’t participate with you, you’ll still find this thought provoking.
Mother Theresa’s statements will be indented and will stand alone. Then below each quote, we include supporting scripture in [brackets]. So, here goes:
Do It Anyway
• “People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered. … Forgive them anyway.”
[“Put on, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.” (Colossians 3:12-13) “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matthew 6:14-15)]
• “If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish ulterior motives. … Be kind anyway.”
[“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32)]
• “If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies. … Succeed anyway.”
• “If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you. … Be honest and frank anyway.”
[“Even my close friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted his heel against me.” (Psalm 41:9) “Leave the presence of a fool, for there you do not meet words of knowledge.” (Proverbs 14:6-7)]
• “If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous. … Be happy anyway.”
[“Put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.” (1 Peter 2:1) “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)
Also:
• “The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow. … Do good anyway.”
[“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” (Colossians 3:23-24) “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9)]
• “Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough. … Give the best you’ve got anyway.”
[“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” (Colossians 3:17) “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)]
• “You see, in the final analysis it is between you and God; it was never between you and them anyway.” (Mother Teresa)
[“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8) “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10)]
In Closing, as you do it anyway:
We also hope you will take to heart the following from God’s Word and apply it to your everyday life and especially your thoughts concerning your spouse and live them out within your marriage:
“Finally, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable —if anything is excellent or praiseworthy —think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me or seen in me —put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:8-9)
As you apply these scriptures may God bless your marriage abundantly!
Cindy and Steve Wright
— ADDITIONALLY —
To help you grow further, we give a lot of personal stories, humor, and more practical tips in our book, 7 ESSENTIALS to Grow Your Marriage. We hope you will pick up a copy for yourself. (It’s available both electronically and in print form.) Plus, it can make a great gift for someone else. It gives you the opportunity to help them grow their marriage. And who doesn’t need that? Just click on the linked title or the picture below:
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