From the Secular to the Sacred

What is sacred and what is secular? This is often a question many Christ-followers ask in the santification process. As finite human beings, we often "compartmentalize" areas of life. I frequently find myself saying, "that was a random conversation" or "isn't that a weird coincidence". Then, I am reminded of one of my favorite quotes from Oswald Chambers on this matter. He says, " A saint is not to take the initiative toward self-realization, but toward knowing Jesus Christ. A spiritually vigorous saint never believes that his circumstances simply happen at random, nor does he ever think of his life as being divided into the secular and the sacred. He sees every situation in which he finds himself as the means of obtaining a greater knowledge of Jesus Christ, and he has an attitude of unrestrained abandon and total surrender about him."

So now you may be saying, "Okay, I think I understand what Chambers is saying but how does this practically play out in my life?". Good question. I often times battle this as well. Then, God shows up and reminds me of His power and character. Let me explain.

I was on the phone with my mom yesterday discussing personality traits and such. I have recently come to the sobering reality that by nature, I am an introvert. The introvert/extrovert topic will be a future blog post.:) As we were discussing my introverted tendencies, I discussed with my mom why it is hard for me to have "small talk" with strangers. That was the jist of our conversation.

Then, I go to our apartment gym. I will go ahead and admit to you that I ashamedly went to work out and conveniently watch The Bachelor at the same time. Ironically, I began to have small talk with a girl who was working out and watching The Bachelor as well. One comment led to another and by the end of the show, I had the opportunity to hear about the struggles she has been facing in the past 2 years. It was an incredible conversation that I pray it will be the beginning of a relationship with this non-believer (please be praying).

I say all this to share with you an invaluable lesson God taught me yet again. Jesus Christ sees every situation as a way to draw us close and know Him (Phil. 3: 10). Every situation is the means for the believer to obtain a greater knowledge of Jesus Christ. Last night, I learned that the Holy Spirit is my helper. Despite what is "difficult" for me to do, He provides help, grace and mercy. It is my prayer that I would continue to be reminded that everything is sacred to the Lord and I hope you will as well!