I am dissatisfied. That can be a dangerous thing for three reasons. First, I need to ensure my motivation does not run contrary to Phil. 4:11 ("for I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content"). Second, dissatisfaction often requires self-denial to achieve a new destination. Third, deep dissatisfcation will lead you to action, and action means change. Still, dissatisfaction is one of the most powerful motivators in the world. It has toppled personal difficulties, and world governments. Used properly, it is a powerful agent for positive change.

I need to establish three things, 1) what is my motive for the change, 2) what is my new destination, 3) what action do I need to take to arrive there. These three things are simultaneously the three most important steps to change, and the three greatest inhibitors. In all reality, only when my level of dissatisfaction exceeds my fears of motivation, destination and action, will lasting change occur. This model is true for both the secular and the spiritual. I will only eat healthy and exercise when 1) I am sure my motivation is soundly grounded, 2) I have a set goal clearly in focus, 3) I have steps in place to reach that goal. Likewise in the spiritual; I will only draw closer to God when I become so dissatisfied with my apathetic desire to know Him that it 1) purifies my motivation to know Him more, 2) gives me a clear focus on where I want to be with Him, and 3) drives me to take steps to reach that goal.

Let me share a few of my dissatisfactions: First, I am dissatisfied with my satisfaction. I am tired of being OK with the status quo in my spiritual life. I am tired of having my spiritual life gauged by the level of others my age, rather than being gauged by the level of God's character. Second, I am dissatisfied with how much I have accomplished, when compared with what could have been. Third, I am dissatisfied with my lack of vision for the Kingdom of God. Robert Kennedy said, "Some men see things as they are and ask, 'Why.' I see things that never were and ask, 'Why not?' " What if Christians embraced this spirit toward the expansion of God's Kingdom in the hearts and lives of men?

The question is, what am I going to do with these dissatisfactions. I can ignore them, and in all reality, a lot of dissatisfaction if ignored long enough will become nothing more than regret and wishful thinking. Or, I can choose to be a man of God, a seeker after the Most High, and dive into a morass full of God's potential and trust His sovereign hand to mold me into man He wants me to become.

My decision has been made. My lot has been cast, and God is working deeply in my life. The process is slow, and sometimes painful, but it is good.

Where are you? Are you satisfied?

Ryan

Tags: Dissatisfied

I'm writing this from the heart of the U.S., Oklahoma! I'm doing a 6 week internship with Darrell Stetler II in Oklahoma City, OK. I'm loving it! It's been tremendously beneficial for me just these past few days. Can't wait to see what else God has in store.

I'm hoping to take some pictures soon and pass those along as well.

But, I'm afraid it's late and I need to run.

Reveling in the goodness of God,
Ryan

Tags: Internship