Do you like the work that you do to earn a living? Do you like the work you do for me? How many people would continue to do the work they do for a living if they were not paid? I told a story about laborers in a vineyard who were hired at various times during the day. At the end of the day all were paid the same, although those who worked all day expected to get more. It appears that they didn’t enjoy their work and would not have done it for free. Some people are paid for their work in my vineyard, but most are not. If you find life and joy in the way you serve me it won’t be about how much or how little money is attached, or none at all.

Do you like to stay out of debt? This is a good idea where money is concerned. What about other areas of life? Even if other people don’t owe you money, do you feel that they owe you respect and consideration, and perhaps more depending on the relationship? Yet these are things for which you cannot enforce payment. A better approach to life is to assume that no one owes you anything, but that you owe a debt of love to all of humanity. Does this seem to put you forever behind the curve on the payment balance? Think of it as opening the door for gratitude, and I will lavish upon you all the resources you need to pay that debt of love.

Have you read the writings of ancient authors and found that they were not attuned to modern concepts of political correctness? This shouldn’t come as a surprise. They reflect the values of their culture, even as you do, and they were no more aware of these things in their lives than you are in yours. Then does it surprise you when they make statements of brilliant and profound spiritual insight? Do their other statements make you reluctant to accept their great wisdom? Follow my advice. Cast your net and pull your catch on board. Sort it out on deck and keep that which is good, and throw the rest overboard.

Do you understand the importance of granting forgiveness to others? This is central to the message of the Bible and all believers are aware of it. I asked my Father to forgive those who crucified me because they knew not what they did. Are you prepared to ask the same for those who hurt you? Beyond expressing forgiveness for others can you release the residual claims of justice held in your heart? What about asking me that no one may suffer as a result of the suffering they have caused you? These concepts are related but with subtle differences. How many dimensions of forgiveness are you willing to explore?