It's Not Ok to Just be OK

Seth Halpern - Editor

Decades ago, there was a bestseller entitled “I’m Ok, You’re Ok”. It makes me think about what it really means to be “OK”. I routinely ask people (and I’m asked by others) “How are you doing?” The answer is usually “Fine” “Alright” or something else that means “Ok”. Sometimes (and becoming more frequently) the response I get is “Hanging in there”. I really don’t care for that phrase. I understand that there are days, weeks, or even “seasons” of life where the best we can do is to hang on to our faith in Jesus and ask for His help to get through something. But, if that is your “mantra” or lifestyle phrase, that is sad. I know that many people deal with physical, financial or relational issues that are extremely difficult. I know that some are facing much more tragic situations that I am. Those are the ones that need our prayers. I’m not writing this to them but to the majority of us who have daily issues called “Life”. That includes me and most of my friends and loved ones.

I want you to consider that in some other parts of the world, people’s faith in Christ is ALL they have. They may endure torture, burned homes & churches, financial loss or even family loss or brutality all because of their faith. They are truly hanging on.

I don’t write this to make anyone feel guilty, but to consider your life in light of the amazing goodness and grace of our God toward us! Just the mere fact of being born and/or raised in this nation with the freedoms and benefits we receive should make us wake up in the morning with more than an “I’m hanging in there” response. Knowing that you and I have a relationship with our Creator, and He Loves us as a Daddy with a secure future for all eternity should be enough to add some celebration to our day! Again, I am blessed, and I don’t know what your situation is but I have had my share of trials, from heart issues (a coronary bypass at 50), diabetes and a host of other medical issues. Endured relationship issues that were severely damaged and live pretty much month to month financially. Yet the Lord sustains me. So, maybe the next time I ask you how you are doing, hopefully, you’ll take a split second inventory and answer with something more positive than simply “ok” or even worse “Hanging in there” And if I answer with that then I give you permission to keep me accountable.