Chosen

Chosen

You are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession.

1 Peter 2:9

What three words would you use to describe your faith? For the Amish, three concepts rise above the others. First is the rejection of Hochmut, which means pride, arrogance, or haughtiness. Second is the high value placed on Demut, or humility, and third, Gelassenheit, which refers to remaining calm no matter what may come. Another way to define this, from a more literal translation, is “letting be.”

In our world today, “letting be” seems like a sign of weakness rather than strength. We’re told to climb the corporate ladder and to be assertive. In contrast, the Amish are raised to resist the urge to push oneself forward. They trust that God’s will is above all things and that the good of the group is more important than that of an individual.

These deep-seated beliefs play a part not only in who the Amish are but also in what they acquire. Having electricity would foster an unnecessary dependence on those outside the community and make them less dependent on their own community. The Amish believe having photographs, singing a musical solo, or playing an instrument cultivates personal vanity. Instead of feeling as if they are missing out, Amish children grow up with the belief that they were chosen to dedicate their lives to God and live this way.

We may not choose to forgo technology or to put away our cameras, but rejecting pride and fostering humility are virtues all believers should embrace. We can also take steps toward “letting be” instead of pushing ahead with personal agendas. Imagine how much more peaceful our lives would be if we accepted whatever the day held as part of God’s plan. God does have His eye on us, you know: “You are a holy people, who belong to the LORD your God” (Deuteronomy 7:6).

Do you have the urge to push ahead and proclaim your worth? You don’t need to. You belong to God. What could you ever obtain that would be more wonderful than that?

Dear heavenly Father, it’s my natural tendency to want approval and appreciation from others. Forgive me for the times I’ve looked for approval from others rather than from You. I rejoice that I belong to You!