Fresh Oil from A Clarion Call

Fresh Oil - Summer 2010

Fresh Oil is a quarterly column published to the website by Jennifer Hallmark. Stop in every quarter for some fresh oil.

     A Clarion Call, women’s ministry workshops and one-on-one coaching is experiencing a busy summer already. We are working with Praise Tabernacle, a non-denominational church in Russellville, Alabama on establishing a significant women’s ministry in their community. Four workshops to instruct the ladies interested in learning and in leadership in their Women of Faith group are slated for the month of July with the kickoff event, a patio brunch, scheduled for August. A fund raiser is underway to help build a foundation for a ministry that is sure to make a difference in their church and community. Thank you ladies at Praise Tabernacle!

     My Fresh Oil thought for the summer concerns comparison. The question on my own mind lately has been “Do I compare myself to others? Why?” I’m afraid that I often compare my job, my family, my shortcomings and many other things in life to others around me. I wonder if everyone else struggles with life as I do and whether or not I’ll ever find peace, joy and love in the quantities I seek. A quick glance at other women tells me that their lives must be perfect as their outward appearance speaks success. Is it really?

     Why do I do this? Mainly because I forget what God has told me in His Word. Our God is no respecter of persons and treats each person as if he or she were His only child. Our God loves me unconditionally and extends grace and mercy for help in times of need. Our God forgives me and asks me to extend forgiveness to others. Our God tells me to quit focusing on other people and look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.

     So it’s time to fix my eyes on Jesus and be obedient to His Word. As I focus on Him, the influence of comparison will be lessened and I’ll see each person as one with strengths and weaknesses as myself, in need of a Savior and Lord. Love will fill my hearts toward others and jealousy and covetousness will hold no place in my life. The peace, joy and love I’m seeking will be mine as I seek Him. Will you join me today?

Jennifer Hallmark