Seriously?

But he’s already made it plain how to live, what to do,
    what God is looking for in men and women.
It’s quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor,
    be compassionate and loyal in your love,
And don’t take yourself too seriously—
    take God seriously.

Micah 6:8 

 

Ever have to talk with someone who takes themselves so seriously that even the mosquitoes have to make an appointment to land on them?  One such person came to me the other day and the following exchange ensued:

 

Person:  "I'd like to discuss something with you if I may."

Me: "Absolutely! Let talk.  What may I do for you?"

Person: "May I be serious with you?"

Me: "Okay, but who were you with that other person you were talking to?"

Person:  *Blank Look*

Me: "I'm sorry.  If we take ourselves too seriously, we will miss out on so much of life."

Person: "You're Kidding."

Me: "Nope, today I'm Paul."

Person: "So you're telling me to lighten up?"

Me: "Yep!  Lighten up and give yourself a break!"

 

We all know those people who are so tense and serious that you wonder how their blood has the audacity to move about their body.  Sometimes I even wonder if the "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" has actually happened.

 

Why do we take ourselves so seriously?  I admit it....for years and years I was what my grandmother called a "worry wort" because I would worry about everything.  And I can tell you, from experience, being too serious all the time tends to repel people and cause health issues.

 

Look at what Micah reminds us that God has instructed us to do:

     1.  Be fair and just!

     2.  Be compassionate!

     3.  Be loyal!

     4.  Don't take yourself so seriously!

     5.  Take God seriously!

 

Have you noticed a theme throughout the Bible?  Focus on God FIRST!

 

Hmmmmm.....