4 minute read
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,” (Hebrews 10:24 NIV)
Sometimes, spurring on is letting go.
No one knows the challenge of spurring on better than a mother. When your ten-year-old leaves for a week of summer fun, Mom is the one who struggles most. The same with college or the military, but magnified. Letting this child, who grew in their body go, I can’t imagine how hard that is to do. But the only way to succeed is to let them go.
For me, I experience this in coaching. Eventually, the pupil outpaces the teacher. When that happens, they need to move on to someone else, a coach who can help them learn more. But letting them go is hard. What helps me make the right decision, I want what is best for my students; even if the best isn’t me.
Spurring others on requires sacrifice.
When you put someone else’s needs before your needs, it is a sacrifice. Objectively looking at a situation, seeking God’s guidance, and doing what is best requires work. When one of my favorite students told me last week he’s going to start classes with another coach; it hurt for a moment. But I know he is making the right decision, I support him fully. Just like a mother knows she only has her children in her home for a little while, coaching is the same. Years slip by quickly, making the most of the time we have is critical, no matter who we’re spurring on.
“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had.” (Romans 15:5 NIV)
Jesus set the ultimate example of putting others first. He sacrificed for all, putting all of us before His needs. When we don’t follow His example, we hurt ourselves and others.
Years ago, I worked with an Area Manager in retail that was phenomenal. He covered his department well; his sales were on point; he was a natural. When he applied for a new position, one that would promote him, he didn’t receive it. His direct supervisor blocked the advancement because she didn’t want him to leave her store. Do you know what happened? He quit, realizing his boss wasn’t willing to help him succeed. She gave him no choice but to leave. Both suffered because she wouldn’t do what was best for her employee.
Spurring on takes self-sacrifice, but in the end, everyone wins. Letting go isn’t an ending but a beginning. A new chapter only starts when the last one ends.
Spur on others by letting them go. Give them into God’s hand; watch what He does.
Question of the Day:
Who do you need to let go of today?
Further Reading:Ezekiel 23 NIV, Hebrews 10:18-39 NIV, Psalm 109 NIV, Proverbs 27:13 NIV
