You Never Know

AUTHOR: Joshua Goodling

The Bible tells us to "be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity." (I Timothy 4:12). Which we should all strive to be in every area of our lives.

As many people know, I have a full-time job along with my speaking and writing careers. Recently, I accepted a new position at a different company. I sent out an email to people at the office letting them know I was leaving, and as I expected, received several replies from people expressing their disappointment that I was leaving but also their congratulations.

However, one email I received brought tears to my eyes, as I thanked God for using my life to encourage and inspire people. This is part of that email:

"So it's true . . . CONGRATULATIONS! Your new company is lucky to be getting such a talented employee and all-around great guy. I wish you the best, professionally.

Beyond that, I want you to know that I consider you one of the most incredible individuals I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. Your shining spirit is an inspiration - even to this otherwise cynical person. I don't consider myself a Christian and have a lot of issues with the words and actions of many who do, but it is very comforting to know that you are out there TRULY living the words of Jesus and doing your best every day to share the real meaning of his teachings with others. In our increasingly divided world, please keep doing it! . . ."

While I'll be the first to admit I've made a lot of wrong choices and selfish decisions in my time, and I'm certainly FAR from perfect, it is such a joy to receive a message like that and be reminded by others of the difference we can make when we seek from our hearts to be the kind of people God would have us to be in this world.

I don't write this to brag or anything, but simply to remind myself and others that people DO watch us and how we live our lives, and it is so important that we strive to Make A Difference in this world and show the true love of Jesus Christ.