October 22, 2025

Recently I was telling a friend about writing my Lifelines newsletters. He asked me if I enjoy writing them. I thought for a moment, then replied, "I don't enjoy doing it, but I'm glad I'm doing it."

Much of what's worthwhile in life is like that, isn't it? How many people really enjoy working out at the gym or cleaning out an overflowing closet or writing their will? Yet, afterwards, they're glad they did it. The gain from the effort turns out to make the effort worth it. 

So it is in our spiritual lives as well. Maintaining a regular time of Scripture reading takes effort. Weekly church attendance, even when vacationing, requires discipline. And memorizing Scripture? I don't know about you, but I sure need work in that area. Additionally, how many of us enjoy confronting someone who seems to be neglecting his spiritual well-being—or being confronted about our own areas of neglect? But we're instructed to exhort one another to love and good deeds. Indeed, obedience to our Lord requires self-denial. Yet, someday, upon hearing those words, "Well done, good and faithful servant—enter into the joy of your Lord," we'll know it was worth the effort. 

So, do I enjoy writing Lifelines? No. It is hard reading about the effects of the fall on mankind. It's hard to research topics so grievous. Am I glad I'm doing it? You bet!