- The Distance of Love August 2, 2010
- Open Our Eyes August 3, 2010
- It's All About Love August 4, 2010
- Your Life is a Pulpit August 5, 2010
- Oh Praise Him August 6, 2010
- It's a God Thing August 7, 2010
- When Things Go Wrong August 9, 2010
- Die to Self August 10, 2010
- Clothe yourself August 11, 2010
- Remain on the Vine August 12, 2010
- Make a Difference August 13, 2010
- God's Eyes August 14, 2010
- Beginning and End August 16, 2010
- Freedom August 17, 2010
- Where the Rubber Meets the Road August 18, 2010
- Need to Know August 19, 2010
- Eternal Peace August 20, 2010
- The Real Life August 21, 2010
- Let Love Rule August 23, 2010
- Keep it Simple August 24, 2010
- It's a God Thing August 25, 2010
- Change August 26, 2010
- Let Him Lead You August 27, 2010
- You Can't Take it With You August 28, 2010
- God Chose You August 30, 2010
- Training? August 31, 2010
August 2, 2010
“…as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” Psalm 103:12
Read this verse over and over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
Can you imagine any distance farther than the east from the west?
Even to the ends of the universe isn't as far, because there is an end point, even though we don't know where that is. The east and the west do not have an end point, for everywhere you go the distance is the same, it is ongoing. When we ask for forgiveness, that is how far our sins are removed from us. God no longer sees our sins, no longer holds them against us. That is what grace is all about. Can you imagine a love that is greater?
There is no love greater than the love that God has for you. God's love spans from one out stretched hand to the other. There is no love greater than the out stretched arms of Jesus on the cross.
Today I challenge you to meditate on your forgiveness and Gods' love. Can you think of other ways to describe it? Can you think of ways to thank God for it? What can you do today to share it with others?
Can you imagine any distance farther than the east from the west?
Even to the ends of the universe isn't as far, because there is an end point, even though we don't know where that is. The east and the west do not have an end point, for everywhere you go the distance is the same, it is ongoing. When we ask for forgiveness, that is how far our sins are removed from us. God no longer sees our sins, no longer holds them against us. That is what grace is all about. Can you imagine a love that is greater?
There is no love greater than the love that God has for you. God's love spans from one out stretched hand to the other. There is no love greater than the out stretched arms of Jesus on the cross.
Today I challenge you to meditate on your forgiveness and Gods' love. Can you think of other ways to describe it? Can you think of ways to thank God for it? What can you do today to share it with others?
August 3, 2010
“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:18
Read this verse over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
Today we are a visual people. We need to see things in order to comprehend them and to help us learn and remember. But God isn't physically visible, yet this verse says "fix our eyes... on what is unseen." What does that mean?
We should not trust or put our faith on anything that we can physically see because in the end it will fail, it will die or corrode or disappear, but God is eternal. How can we "fix our eyes" on God who is "unseen?"
Paul is telling us that we need to see things in a different way. We need to open our spiritual eyes. We need to see through the eyes of the Holy Spirit that is in us. He will show us the truth. The Spirit will give us light that will shine through the darkness and reveal how things really are so that you will not be deceived. Pray to God and ask Him to open your spiritual eyes so that you may see Him and His ways more clearly.
Today we are a visual people. We need to see things in order to comprehend them and to help us learn and remember. But God isn't physically visible, yet this verse says "fix our eyes... on what is unseen." What does that mean?
We should not trust or put our faith on anything that we can physically see because in the end it will fail, it will die or corrode or disappear, but God is eternal. How can we "fix our eyes" on God who is "unseen?"
Paul is telling us that we need to see things in a different way. We need to open our spiritual eyes. We need to see through the eyes of the Holy Spirit that is in us. He will show us the truth. The Spirit will give us light that will shine through the darkness and reveal how things really are so that you will not be deceived. Pray to God and ask Him to open your spiritual eyes so that you may see Him and His ways more clearly.
August 4, 2010
“If someone falls into sin, forgivingly restore him, saving your critical comments for yourself. You might be needing forgiveness before the day's out." Galatians 6:1 MSG
Read this verse over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
What is forgiveness?
Forgiveness is an arm of Love. Without love you cannot forgive and if you cannot forgive you are without love. The two go hand and hand, so why not forgive?
Fear and hate are the reasons for not forgiving someone. When love is absent all that is left is fear and hate. If we are full of hate we will not forgive. The fear of being hurt is another reason to not forgive. We have been hurt and by not forgiving we think that we are protecting ourselves and we think that we are punishing the other person, but in reality we are only hurting ourselves. When we don't forgive, love shrinks inside of us and over time it can disappear completely. Love is a gift from God. Without God we cannot love and without love we cannot know God. Love is the result of being filled with the Spirit, but if we hold back love or deny love we also hold back or deny the Spirit. It's all about Love.
God forgives us because of Love. It is out of His love for us that He forgives not by anything that we have done. Also, remember that we pray "forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us." With that prayer, taught by Love Himself Jesus, we ask God to forgive us according to how we forgive.
Are you having trouble with hate and/or anger?
If you are, then you should meditate about your life and see if there is anyone that you have not forgiven. When we don't forgive we dam up the river of love inside of us and allow hate and anger to flow instead. But by forgiving, we release hate and anger and allow love to flow out of us to others. Love and forgive and you will live in harmony with God and others.
What is forgiveness?
Forgiveness is an arm of Love. Without love you cannot forgive and if you cannot forgive you are without love. The two go hand and hand, so why not forgive?
Fear and hate are the reasons for not forgiving someone. When love is absent all that is left is fear and hate. If we are full of hate we will not forgive. The fear of being hurt is another reason to not forgive. We have been hurt and by not forgiving we think that we are protecting ourselves and we think that we are punishing the other person, but in reality we are only hurting ourselves. When we don't forgive, love shrinks inside of us and over time it can disappear completely. Love is a gift from God. Without God we cannot love and without love we cannot know God. Love is the result of being filled with the Spirit, but if we hold back love or deny love we also hold back or deny the Spirit. It's all about Love.
God forgives us because of Love. It is out of His love for us that He forgives not by anything that we have done. Also, remember that we pray "forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us." With that prayer, taught by Love Himself Jesus, we ask God to forgive us according to how we forgive.
Are you having trouble with hate and/or anger?
If you are, then you should meditate about your life and see if there is anyone that you have not forgiven. When we don't forgive we dam up the river of love inside of us and allow hate and anger to flow instead. But by forgiving, we release hate and anger and allow love to flow out of us to others. Love and forgive and you will live in harmony with God and others.
August 5, 2010
“The point is, Before you trust, you have to listen. But unless Christ's Word is preached, there's nothing to listen to.” Romans 10:17 MSG
Read this verse over. What is Jesus whispering to you?
The Word of God is powerful and life changing. We learn that the Word is Jesus in the first chapter of the Gospel of John. But that power is lessened if we don't listen. The Spirit works through the Word and if we don't listen to the Spirit, His impact is lessened. Are you listening?
Sometimes we don't hear because the Word is drowned out by our busy lives, but sometimes we don't hear because the Word isn't preached. Are you following the Spirit and preaching the Word?
Yes even you are called to preach the Word. The interesting thing is we don't have to speak. St Francis of Assisi is known to say "Preach the Gospel all the time and when necessary use words." The Word doesn't have to be spoken, but it does have to be preached. Our lives are a pulpit for God to preach the Word through our actions. We proclaim Jesus or denounce Jesus by what we do, by how we live our lives, by how we interact with others through our words and actions. So I will end this meditation with two questions for you to ponder the rest of today. Are you preaching the Word? Is your life pointing to Jesus?
The Word of God is powerful and life changing. We learn that the Word is Jesus in the first chapter of the Gospel of John. But that power is lessened if we don't listen. The Spirit works through the Word and if we don't listen to the Spirit, His impact is lessened. Are you listening?
Sometimes we don't hear because the Word is drowned out by our busy lives, but sometimes we don't hear because the Word isn't preached. Are you following the Spirit and preaching the Word?
Yes even you are called to preach the Word. The interesting thing is we don't have to speak. St Francis of Assisi is known to say "Preach the Gospel all the time and when necessary use words." The Word doesn't have to be spoken, but it does have to be preached. Our lives are a pulpit for God to preach the Word through our actions. We proclaim Jesus or denounce Jesus by what we do, by how we live our lives, by how we interact with others through our words and actions. So I will end this meditation with two questions for you to ponder the rest of today. Are you preaching the Word? Is your life pointing to Jesus?
August 6, 2010
“For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.” Romans 11:36
Read this verse over and over. What is God whispering to you?
God is worthy of our praise. When was the last time that you truly praised God?
Praise is directed upward and there are no expectations by us we are only focused on God and who He is. We don't even thank Him we only Praise Him. The best praise is spontaneous. We just can't hold it back because we are so over whelmed with it, but we need to train ourselves to think about praising God. This verse ends with praise and there are many psalms of praise throughout the Bible. Basically praise is telling God who He is: You are wonderful, powerful, the creator of all, You are worthy to be praised, You are full of love and mercy, You are all knowing, All loving, and you go on and on. Maybe you repeat a lot of this but you just go with it. Of course God already knows who He is but it is something we need to do. By praising God we are further developing our relationship with Him. By praising God we are reminding ourselves of who He is. The more we do that the more apt we are to remember who God is in the hard times. Take time throughout the day to praise God. Something you will notice is it will cheer you up.
God is worthy of our praise. When was the last time that you truly praised God?
Praise is directed upward and there are no expectations by us we are only focused on God and who He is. We don't even thank Him we only Praise Him. The best praise is spontaneous. We just can't hold it back because we are so over whelmed with it, but we need to train ourselves to think about praising God. This verse ends with praise and there are many psalms of praise throughout the Bible. Basically praise is telling God who He is: You are wonderful, powerful, the creator of all, You are worthy to be praised, You are full of love and mercy, You are all knowing, All loving, and you go on and on. Maybe you repeat a lot of this but you just go with it. Of course God already knows who He is but it is something we need to do. By praising God we are further developing our relationship with Him. By praising God we are reminding ourselves of who He is. The more we do that the more apt we are to remember who God is in the hard times. Take time throughout the day to praise God. Something you will notice is it will cheer you up.
August 7, 2010
“…the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.” Romans 8:26
Read this verse over and over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
Have you ever not had the words when you wanted to pray? You wanted to pray, you needed to pray but nothing, you drew a blank. There is good news, it is OK you don't have to have the words, the Spirit is already praying for you. This doesn't mean you don't try to pray it means you just need to sit in silence and let the Spirit pray for you. You could say something like "your will be done" but words or thoughts aren't necessary, just sit in the presence of God and let the Spirit inside of you converse with God.
The great thing about the Spirit is it knows what is best for you. The Spirit knows better than you do what you need. Even when you pray with words the Spirit is praying what you really need. We don't have to understand it just realize it's a God thing. This weekend try to let the Spirit inside of you do the talking. Listen to what the Spirit is praying and try to pray those same things. If you can't hear it or don't know for sure then just sit in silence. May you have a blessed weekend.
Have you ever not had the words when you wanted to pray? You wanted to pray, you needed to pray but nothing, you drew a blank. There is good news, it is OK you don't have to have the words, the Spirit is already praying for you. This doesn't mean you don't try to pray it means you just need to sit in silence and let the Spirit pray for you. You could say something like "your will be done" but words or thoughts aren't necessary, just sit in the presence of God and let the Spirit inside of you converse with God.
The great thing about the Spirit is it knows what is best for you. The Spirit knows better than you do what you need. Even when you pray with words the Spirit is praying what you really need. We don't have to understand it just realize it's a God thing. This weekend try to let the Spirit inside of you do the talking. Listen to what the Spirit is praying and try to pray those same things. If you can't hear it or don't know for sure then just sit in silence. May you have a blessed weekend.
August 9, 2010
“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
Read these verses over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
No matter what situation you find yourself in there is hope and help. In our journey of faith God will allow us to face hard times. He will allow us to be persecuted but we will not be abandoned. He will allow us to face pressure that will feel unbearable but He will not allow us to be crushed. We may fall, stumble or even be pushed down but God will not allow us to be destroyed.
Today when things go wrong, remember this verse and meditate on it.
No matter what situation you find yourself in there is hope and help. In our journey of faith God will allow us to face hard times. He will allow us to be persecuted but we will not be abandoned. He will allow us to face pressure that will feel unbearable but He will not allow us to be crushed. We may fall, stumble or even be pushed down but God will not allow us to be destroyed.
Today when things go wrong, remember this verse and meditate on it.
August 10, 2010
“So we do not lose heart. Though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day.” 2 Corinthians 4:16 ESV
Read this verse over and over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
What does it mean to die to self?
When we die to self our outer nature wastes away, this is not an easy process. God must help us. Our flesh doesn't want to die and it will hold on for dear life, but through hardships and struggles God will destroy our flesh so that we may live a new life. This is a daily process and can be painful. Our flesh, outer nature, will waste away. At times we will be discouraged and want to go back to the way it was when we enjoyed the worldly things, don't lose heart hang in there things are much better on the other side with God when our inner nature, the one full of the Spirit, is renewed and filled. The Bible doesn't say life with God is easy but it is fulfilling.
Today we will pray for God's help to let go of our own will and help us to follow His will. Pray for strength and endurance for the process.
What does it mean to die to self?
When we die to self our outer nature wastes away, this is not an easy process. God must help us. Our flesh doesn't want to die and it will hold on for dear life, but through hardships and struggles God will destroy our flesh so that we may live a new life. This is a daily process and can be painful. Our flesh, outer nature, will waste away. At times we will be discouraged and want to go back to the way it was when we enjoyed the worldly things, don't lose heart hang in there things are much better on the other side with God when our inner nature, the one full of the Spirit, is renewed and filled. The Bible doesn't say life with God is easy but it is fulfilling.
Today we will pray for God's help to let go of our own will and help us to follow His will. Pray for strength and endurance for the process.
August 11, 2010
“Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Colossians 3:12
Read this verse over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
We are God's chosen, we are dearly loved, and God has given us compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience, but we must clothe ourselves with these traits. How?
All of these things are gifts of the Spirit. We cannot put them on as we do material clothing, we must do so spiritually. This is done through prayer and meditation. When you feel anger, when you want to act out in revenge, when you feel better than someone else, when you have no patience and want to act harshly, stop and pray. Release those feelings and allow the Spirit to shine through. Allow your Spiritual clothing to be seen. You are chosen, holy, and dearly loved by God; by remembering this you will know all things are possible.
May the glory of God shine through you.
We are God's chosen, we are dearly loved, and God has given us compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience, but we must clothe ourselves with these traits. How?
All of these things are gifts of the Spirit. We cannot put them on as we do material clothing, we must do so spiritually. This is done through prayer and meditation. When you feel anger, when you want to act out in revenge, when you feel better than someone else, when you have no patience and want to act harshly, stop and pray. Release those feelings and allow the Spirit to shine through. Allow your Spiritual clothing to be seen. You are chosen, holy, and dearly loved by God; by remembering this you will know all things are possible.
May the glory of God shine through you.
August 12, 2010
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5
Read this verse over and over. What is Jesus whispering to you?
Where do you get your sustenance?
We are branches; therefore we must be connected to something to live. We will know what we are connected to by the fruit we bear. If we bear good fruit, fruit of the Spirit, then we know that we are connected to Jesus, but if we bear bad fruit, fruit of the World, then we know that we are not connected to Jesus. What fruit do you bear?
This can be tough because the fruit of the world sometimes looks like the fruit of the Spirit until you bite into it. For example: Two people help feed the hungry by giving food. One of them is bad fruit and the other is good fruit. How can you tell? The reality is we can't tell the difference. Only God can judge the good from the bad. One person feeds the hungry out of love for God and the other does it out of love of themselves. One is following God's will and the other isn't. It is not up to us to judge the deeds of others, we need to make sure that we let go of this world and remain attached to the Vine, Jesus. If we do that Jesus will shine through us and those who aren't attached will want to be.
Where do you get your sustenance?
We are branches; therefore we must be connected to something to live. We will know what we are connected to by the fruit we bear. If we bear good fruit, fruit of the Spirit, then we know that we are connected to Jesus, but if we bear bad fruit, fruit of the World, then we know that we are not connected to Jesus. What fruit do you bear?
This can be tough because the fruit of the world sometimes looks like the fruit of the Spirit until you bite into it. For example: Two people help feed the hungry by giving food. One of them is bad fruit and the other is good fruit. How can you tell? The reality is we can't tell the difference. Only God can judge the good from the bad. One person feeds the hungry out of love for God and the other does it out of love of themselves. One is following God's will and the other isn't. It is not up to us to judge the deeds of others, we need to make sure that we let go of this world and remain attached to the Vine, Jesus. If we do that Jesus will shine through us and those who aren't attached will want to be.
August 13, 2010
"Stoop down and reach out to those who are oppressed. Share their burdens, and so complete Christ's law. If you think you are too good for that, you are badly deceived.” Galatians 6:2-3 MSG
Read this verse over and over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
The oppressed isn't limited to slaves or the poor or people in other countries who don't have the freedom that we enjoy. The oppressed could be the annoying person you work with. You know, the person at school or down the road that nobody likes. It's that person you hate to be around. The person that gets on your nerves because they are so needy or they are always interrupting your conversations or always have to be the center of attention. I think we all know people that fit these descriptions. Why do you think they act that way?
They are oppressed. They need a friend. They need help. If they are in your life, if you come in contact with them, then you are someone that God wants them to know. God wants you to share their burdens and help them. It won't be easy. You will have to bite your tongue and you will need to pray for strength and patience. You can do it with the help of God.
Spend today meditating on who God wants you to reach out to. Pray for guidance and help to do His will. God will use you to make a difference in someone's life.
The oppressed isn't limited to slaves or the poor or people in other countries who don't have the freedom that we enjoy. The oppressed could be the annoying person you work with. You know, the person at school or down the road that nobody likes. It's that person you hate to be around. The person that gets on your nerves because they are so needy or they are always interrupting your conversations or always have to be the center of attention. I think we all know people that fit these descriptions. Why do you think they act that way?
They are oppressed. They need a friend. They need help. If they are in your life, if you come in contact with them, then you are someone that God wants them to know. God wants you to share their burdens and help them. It won't be easy. You will have to bite your tongue and you will need to pray for strength and patience. You can do it with the help of God.
Spend today meditating on who God wants you to reach out to. Pray for guidance and help to do His will. God will use you to make a difference in someone's life.
August 14, 2010
“Can anything happen without the Lord's permission?” Lamentations 3:37 NLT
Read this verse over and over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
This one can be hard to explain especially to people who are new to faith or have no faith. The question that they often have is: If God is in control why does He allow bad things to happen to good people? What would you say to this question?
Someone who is struggling with this question often isn't looking for a real answer. They are lashing out because something bad has happened to them or a friend or family member. Often this is a time to just listen and not give answers, but if they are truly trying to understand God, then we can dive into this question. First off we need to define something bad happening and who is a good person. We define these terms by our experience. Bad things are those that seem to hurt us or others. For example death is a bad thing in our mind; for someone who doesn't believe it is a bad thing but for believers it is our reward. When we die we go to heaven and spend eternity in the presence of God, there is nothing better than that. Struggles and hardships are considered bad, but again for a believer these are times of refining. When we go through the fire impurities are burned away. We can only look to God for comfort and support.
Who are good people? None of us are good, not one, on our own in the site of God for we are all sinners and we cannot bear to be near a Holy God, but through the blood of Jesus we are cleansed of our sin and we can then have a relationship with God. We all deserve torture and eternal death but God gives us grace which allows us to live. As long as you are alive we have the opportunity to believe in Jesus as our Savior but once we die, our time is up. Those of us who believe are here to witness to the non believers, giving them every opportunity to accept the gift of grace. Those bad things often bring us to a relationship with God and make us willing to accept the gift of grace. What is bad to us is good in God's eyes. What is good to us is often bad in God's eyes. We need to go beyond our own understanding and see through God's eyes.
This weekend meditate on this verse and ask the Spirit to help you see through God's eyes. When you see a person that you dislike, see them through God's eyes, He sees a perfect creation corrupted by sin only needing someone to show them God's love. When you struggle, know that God loves you so much that He is refining you through His fire so that you can be closer to Him.
This one can be hard to explain especially to people who are new to faith or have no faith. The question that they often have is: If God is in control why does He allow bad things to happen to good people? What would you say to this question?
Someone who is struggling with this question often isn't looking for a real answer. They are lashing out because something bad has happened to them or a friend or family member. Often this is a time to just listen and not give answers, but if they are truly trying to understand God, then we can dive into this question. First off we need to define something bad happening and who is a good person. We define these terms by our experience. Bad things are those that seem to hurt us or others. For example death is a bad thing in our mind; for someone who doesn't believe it is a bad thing but for believers it is our reward. When we die we go to heaven and spend eternity in the presence of God, there is nothing better than that. Struggles and hardships are considered bad, but again for a believer these are times of refining. When we go through the fire impurities are burned away. We can only look to God for comfort and support.
Who are good people? None of us are good, not one, on our own in the site of God for we are all sinners and we cannot bear to be near a Holy God, but through the blood of Jesus we are cleansed of our sin and we can then have a relationship with God. We all deserve torture and eternal death but God gives us grace which allows us to live. As long as you are alive we have the opportunity to believe in Jesus as our Savior but once we die, our time is up. Those of us who believe are here to witness to the non believers, giving them every opportunity to accept the gift of grace. Those bad things often bring us to a relationship with God and make us willing to accept the gift of grace. What is bad to us is good in God's eyes. What is good to us is often bad in God's eyes. We need to go beyond our own understanding and see through God's eyes.
This weekend meditate on this verse and ask the Spirit to help you see through God's eyes. When you see a person that you dislike, see them through God's eyes, He sees a perfect creation corrupted by sin only needing someone to show them God's love. When you struggle, know that God loves you so much that He is refining you through His fire so that you can be closer to Him.
August 16, 2010
“So be careful how you live, not as fools but as those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity for doing good in these evil days. Don't act thoughtlessly, but try to understand what the Lord wants you to do.” Ephesians 5:15-17 NLT
Read these verses over and over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
As we live our lives we need to let go and let God, but this doesn't mean that we stop thinking and trying. How can you allow God to use you and yet still think and carefully live our lives?
We need to make every effort to listen to God. We need to hear the Spirit's guidance and be careful to follow that guidance. We need to fill our every thought with thoughts of God. What does He want me to do? How can I serve the Lord today or at this moment? We need to see people as God would see them with loving eyes always asking how can I help instead of what can I get. How can we live this way?
Start every day with prayer and meditation. End everyday with prayer and meditation. If you get into a habit of doing this you will fill your thoughts of God and you will learn to hear the guidance of the Spirit.
As we live our lives we need to let go and let God, but this doesn't mean that we stop thinking and trying. How can you allow God to use you and yet still think and carefully live our lives?
We need to make every effort to listen to God. We need to hear the Spirit's guidance and be careful to follow that guidance. We need to fill our every thought with thoughts of God. What does He want me to do? How can I serve the Lord today or at this moment? We need to see people as God would see them with loving eyes always asking how can I help instead of what can I get. How can we live this way?
Start every day with prayer and meditation. End everyday with prayer and meditation. If you get into a habit of doing this you will fill your thoughts of God and you will learn to hear the guidance of the Spirit.
August 17, 2010
“Everything is permissible for me”—but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible for me”—but I will not be mastered by anything.” 1 Corinthians 6:12
Read this verse over and over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
Can we be truly free?
Freedom means the ability to do anything that we want anytime we want to. Jesus set us free but we are freed from our former state in which we were controlled by evil desire. We no longer have to choose evil but now we are under the control of the Spirit. If we choose to disobey the Spirit we are back under control of evil. We cannot truly be free. Freedom is freedom from worldly desire. No one can be free from that without God. With freedom comes responsibility. We must follow God and do His desire. If we don't then we lose our freedom. This is also true in our country. We cannot be free without morality. As morality decays we lose our freedom because laws must be passed to protect us. What the world needs is Jesus and we are the instrument that God wants to use to reveal Jesus to those we meet.
Can we be truly free?
Freedom means the ability to do anything that we want anytime we want to. Jesus set us free but we are freed from our former state in which we were controlled by evil desire. We no longer have to choose evil but now we are under the control of the Spirit. If we choose to disobey the Spirit we are back under control of evil. We cannot truly be free. Freedom is freedom from worldly desire. No one can be free from that without God. With freedom comes responsibility. We must follow God and do His desire. If we don't then we lose our freedom. This is also true in our country. We cannot be free without morality. As morality decays we lose our freedom because laws must be passed to protect us. What the world needs is Jesus and we are the instrument that God wants to use to reveal Jesus to those we meet.
August 18, 2010
“Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.” 1 John 3:18
Read this verse over and over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
Words are cheap. It is easy to say I love you, but it requires time and energy to show your love through actions. It is easy to say you're a Christian, but acting like a Christian should act is much harder. Saint Francis of Assisi said "Preach the Gospel all the time and if necessary use words." The Gospel is love. Jesus is love. We can talk till we are blue in the face but it is when someone experiences Jesus that they will truly understand who He is. Don't get me wrong words are important. With words we can build someone up or tear them down. With words we can help or we can hurt. Actions are where the rubber hits the road. With actions we apply the words. With actions we experience and live out love.
Today as you meditate on this verse throughout your day, try to show love to all you see through your actions, without any words.
Words are cheap. It is easy to say I love you, but it requires time and energy to show your love through actions. It is easy to say you're a Christian, but acting like a Christian should act is much harder. Saint Francis of Assisi said "Preach the Gospel all the time and if necessary use words." The Gospel is love. Jesus is love. We can talk till we are blue in the face but it is when someone experiences Jesus that they will truly understand who He is. Don't get me wrong words are important. With words we can build someone up or tear them down. With words we can help or we can hurt. Actions are where the rubber hits the road. With actions we apply the words. With actions we experience and live out love.
Today as you meditate on this verse throughout your day, try to show love to all you see through your actions, without any words.
August 19, 2010
“For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man's spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.” 1 Corinthians 2:11
Read this verse over. What is God whispering to you?
Why do we try to read people's mind?
I think most of us do it; we try to read into what people say or do. We try to understand a person's thoughts and actions without asking them. We judge their motives instead of taking them for their word. Why?
Because people lie. Because we've been hurt before. We don't want to be taken off guard by someone who has arterial motives. Out of fear and the need of being in control we try to read into people's actions and words. We don't want to be taken off guard and so we try to understand someone's thoughts. Can we truly know what someone is thinking?
We may be able to guess, but we will never be able to truly understand someone's thoughts and motives, only God can. But it doesn't stop there; we do the same to God. We try to guess what He is thinking; we try to read into what He is asking us to do. God's Spirit is in us, all we have to do is listen and we will know all that we need to. We can trust God, He doesn't lie and if we need to know something He will tell us through His Spirit. We are on a need to know basis. We can't handle anything more. If God were to tell us everything we might explode. Our brains are not capable of fully comprehending God.
Let us all learn to listen to God and trust what we hear and know. I challenge you to practice Contemplative style prayer. There is a lesson in this web site. It only takes 20 minutes a day. If you have already done the lesson, great keep it up. Don't stop even if you have finished the lesson. This should be a lifetime thing. Through prayer we will continue to grow in faith and we will hear the Spirit the more we listen.
Why do we try to read people's mind?
I think most of us do it; we try to read into what people say or do. We try to understand a person's thoughts and actions without asking them. We judge their motives instead of taking them for their word. Why?
Because people lie. Because we've been hurt before. We don't want to be taken off guard by someone who has arterial motives. Out of fear and the need of being in control we try to read into people's actions and words. We don't want to be taken off guard and so we try to understand someone's thoughts. Can we truly know what someone is thinking?
We may be able to guess, but we will never be able to truly understand someone's thoughts and motives, only God can. But it doesn't stop there; we do the same to God. We try to guess what He is thinking; we try to read into what He is asking us to do. God's Spirit is in us, all we have to do is listen and we will know all that we need to. We can trust God, He doesn't lie and if we need to know something He will tell us through His Spirit. We are on a need to know basis. We can't handle anything more. If God were to tell us everything we might explode. Our brains are not capable of fully comprehending God.
Let us all learn to listen to God and trust what we hear and know. I challenge you to practice Contemplative style prayer. There is a lesson in this web site. It only takes 20 minutes a day. If you have already done the lesson, great keep it up. Don't stop even if you have finished the lesson. This should be a lifetime thing. Through prayer we will continue to grow in faith and we will hear the Spirit the more we listen.
August 20, 2010
“What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:9 ESV
Read this verse over and over. What is God whispering to you?
This is Paul in His letter to the Philippians. What would they have "learned and received and heard and seen" in Paul?
Paul taught Christ crucified. Paul would have shown them Christ's love. They would have heard the law and the gospel. The Philippians would have seen someone who had given up everything to serve Christ; someone who died to self and was living a new life. They would have seen a man living in eternal peace. What is eternal peace?
We cannot experience eternal peace without God. Eternal peace is a gift of God. Saint Augustine describes eternal peace this way: "it is the peace in which immortals dwell. In this eternal peace—not of ourselves but which we hold within, like golden containers—we do not suffer at all from external adversities, no matter how difficult.” What does this mean?
I believe Saint Augustine is telling us that we experience eternal peace when we dwell within the Holy Sanctuary within us all, the place in which the Spirit dwells. We cannot inter this place without the help of the Spirit and without the permission of God. This is the ultimate goal of contemplative prayer. Being able to quiet ourselves and dwell with God; living in eternal peace with the Spirit. This is a goal but we cannot earn it, though it requires discipline it also requires grace. When we accept the gift of grace through baptism we start living eternal life. Though we are born with eternal souls, I am speaking of eternal life with God, in which our mortal death is only a doorway, so to speak, to the next room, the room of Heaven. So Saint Augustine also states "whoever lives this life for the sake of the life to come, they will find peace."
I must admit that I have only experienced a glimpse of this eternal peace, but it was enough that I live with the hope of eternal peace. I yearn to dwell within, with God, and live out my God given purpose. I pray that we may all experience eternal peace.
This is Paul in His letter to the Philippians. What would they have "learned and received and heard and seen" in Paul?
Paul taught Christ crucified. Paul would have shown them Christ's love. They would have heard the law and the gospel. The Philippians would have seen someone who had given up everything to serve Christ; someone who died to self and was living a new life. They would have seen a man living in eternal peace. What is eternal peace?
We cannot experience eternal peace without God. Eternal peace is a gift of God. Saint Augustine describes eternal peace this way: "it is the peace in which immortals dwell. In this eternal peace—not of ourselves but which we hold within, like golden containers—we do not suffer at all from external adversities, no matter how difficult.” What does this mean?
I believe Saint Augustine is telling us that we experience eternal peace when we dwell within the Holy Sanctuary within us all, the place in which the Spirit dwells. We cannot inter this place without the help of the Spirit and without the permission of God. This is the ultimate goal of contemplative prayer. Being able to quiet ourselves and dwell with God; living in eternal peace with the Spirit. This is a goal but we cannot earn it, though it requires discipline it also requires grace. When we accept the gift of grace through baptism we start living eternal life. Though we are born with eternal souls, I am speaking of eternal life with God, in which our mortal death is only a doorway, so to speak, to the next room, the room of Heaven. So Saint Augustine also states "whoever lives this life for the sake of the life to come, they will find peace."
I must admit that I have only experienced a glimpse of this eternal peace, but it was enough that I live with the hope of eternal peace. I yearn to dwell within, with God, and live out my God given purpose. I pray that we may all experience eternal peace.
August 21, 2010
“…dear friends, carefully build yourselves up in this most holy faith by praying in the Holy Spirit, staying right at the center of God's love, keeping your arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Master, Jesus Christ. This is the unending life, the real life!” Jude 21 MSG
Read this verse over and over. What is Jesus whispering to you?
What is meant by "praying in the Holy Spirit?"
Praying in the Holy Spirit is when we let our own will go and live for God's will. We listen to the guidance of the Holy Spirit in our lives and in our prayers. What does it mean to stay "right at the center of God's love?"
It is the same thing, we no longer live for ourselves but we seek God and His will. We live our lives as humble servants of Jesus Christ. We live understanding our sinfulness and need of His mercy and grace. Like the quote of St Augustine that I used yesterday, we live "this life for the sake of the life to come." When we do this we live the eternal life, the unending life, the real life.
Take some moments this weekend and meditate on the ideas of praying in the Holy Spirit, staying right at the center of God's love, and keeping our arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ. May God bless you in this exercise.
What is meant by "praying in the Holy Spirit?"
Praying in the Holy Spirit is when we let our own will go and live for God's will. We listen to the guidance of the Holy Spirit in our lives and in our prayers. What does it mean to stay "right at the center of God's love?"
It is the same thing, we no longer live for ourselves but we seek God and His will. We live our lives as humble servants of Jesus Christ. We live understanding our sinfulness and need of His mercy and grace. Like the quote of St Augustine that I used yesterday, we live "this life for the sake of the life to come." When we do this we live the eternal life, the unending life, the real life.
Take some moments this weekend and meditate on the ideas of praying in the Holy Spirit, staying right at the center of God's love, and keeping our arms open and outstretched, ready for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ. May God bless you in this exercise.
August 23, 2010
“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.” 1 Corinthians 13:1-3
Read these verses over and over. What is God whispering to you?
Do you have love?
Nothing else matters. Love is the key to living a Christian life. Although speaking in the tongues of men and angels, the gift of prophecy and ability to fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, a faith that can move mountains, are all gifts of the Spirit, but the anti-Christ can do all these as well. The only difference is Love. We are not talking about love of self but a different love. We are given the definition of this love in the next verses.
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Read these verses over. Do you have this kind of love?
We are unable to have this kind of love on our own, but thanks be to God through our faith in our Savior Jesus Christ we are given this kind of love, for this kind of love is Jesus. As believers we have this kind of love, but we must allow it to shine through. As you go about this day reflect on love. Are you showing patience and kindness? Do you envy or boast? Are you rude or self-seeking? Are you easily angered or keep records of wrongs? Do you delight in evil or rejoice in the truth? Do you protect, trust, hope, and persevere? The answer is deep within. Let love rule your life.
Do you have love?
Nothing else matters. Love is the key to living a Christian life. Although speaking in the tongues of men and angels, the gift of prophecy and ability to fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, a faith that can move mountains, are all gifts of the Spirit, but the anti-Christ can do all these as well. The only difference is Love. We are not talking about love of self but a different love. We are given the definition of this love in the next verses.
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Read these verses over. Do you have this kind of love?
We are unable to have this kind of love on our own, but thanks be to God through our faith in our Savior Jesus Christ we are given this kind of love, for this kind of love is Jesus. As believers we have this kind of love, but we must allow it to shine through. As you go about this day reflect on love. Are you showing patience and kindness? Do you envy or boast? Are you rude or self-seeking? Are you easily angered or keep records of wrongs? Do you delight in evil or rejoice in the truth? Do you protect, trust, hope, and persevere? The answer is deep within. Let love rule your life.
August 24, 2010
“A pretentious, showy life is an empty life; a plain and simple life is a full life.” Proverbs 13:7 MSG
Read this verse over and over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
The recession that we are in was caused by people living beyond their means. Why do we spend more than we have?
There are many reasons why we spend money. Sometimes we spend money on things we need, but most Americans spend money on things that we can do without. I'm one of them. Often before I buy I ask myself do I need this? That's a great question to ask but I have mastered the art of justifying my purchases. I can always come up with reasons for buying something. I have even bought things to make myself feel good. What a waste that has turned out to be. Possessions only bring momentary happiness. The only way to have lasting peace and joy is through a close relationship with God. We don't need possessions to have a relationship with God in fact possessions usually hinder a close relationship with God. Things will clutter your mind and distract you. In order to have a close relationship with God we need to be able to quite ourselves, relax and listen. If we are living our lives to look good to our friends and neighbors we are not focused on God. If we are buying the biggest newest best things to impress then we are always worrying about where we are going to get the money to pay for those things. We are too busy trying to be defined by our possessions instead of being defined by who God made us to be. Our focus is on things and ourselves instead of God. Is your life cluttered with stuff you don't need?
Living the simple life is hard, especially if you have lived a life full of stuff. I know, because I'm there. I have too much stuff. The past couple of months we as a family have had inventory reduction. We still have too much stuff but it isn't as cluttered as it was. We have a long way to go but with God's help we can do it. Let us pray to God to help us live a plain and simple life so that we may experience God in a more personnel way.
The recession that we are in was caused by people living beyond their means. Why do we spend more than we have?
There are many reasons why we spend money. Sometimes we spend money on things we need, but most Americans spend money on things that we can do without. I'm one of them. Often before I buy I ask myself do I need this? That's a great question to ask but I have mastered the art of justifying my purchases. I can always come up with reasons for buying something. I have even bought things to make myself feel good. What a waste that has turned out to be. Possessions only bring momentary happiness. The only way to have lasting peace and joy is through a close relationship with God. We don't need possessions to have a relationship with God in fact possessions usually hinder a close relationship with God. Things will clutter your mind and distract you. In order to have a close relationship with God we need to be able to quite ourselves, relax and listen. If we are living our lives to look good to our friends and neighbors we are not focused on God. If we are buying the biggest newest best things to impress then we are always worrying about where we are going to get the money to pay for those things. We are too busy trying to be defined by our possessions instead of being defined by who God made us to be. Our focus is on things and ourselves instead of God. Is your life cluttered with stuff you don't need?
Living the simple life is hard, especially if you have lived a life full of stuff. I know, because I'm there. I have too much stuff. The past couple of months we as a family have had inventory reduction. We still have too much stuff but it isn't as cluttered as it was. We have a long way to go but with God's help we can do it. Let us pray to God to help us live a plain and simple life so that we may experience God in a more personnel way.
August 25, 2010
“That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:10
Read this verse over and over. What is God whispering to you?
Nobody likes to be weak or face hardships and persecutions, but here Paul says we should delight in these things. How can these things be good?
In order to live for Christ and die to self we must let go of our fleshly control. We are born in sin, our flesh, our natural desires, are at odds with God. The older we get before we let go of those desires the stronger they become. Those desires do not go away easily, they are who we are and it hurts to be separated from them. Through pain and through hardships our flesh becomes weak and Christ is able to shine through and fill us, therefore in our weakness God is strong in us.
Our natural abilities are to sin even if it appears good in our human minds. Sin is anything done apart from God. We can feed the poor but if it is done without God, it is sin. Remember 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.” Love is God and God is Love. Without Love (God) we are nothing. Without pain and hardship we are controlled by our flesh (sinful desires). With pain and hardship the control is broken and Jesus reigns in us. When we are in the middle of this pain and hardship we don't want to hear that it is a good thing. In fact we often ask why does God allow bad things to happen? The answer is: because He loves us, it's for our own good. Pain and hardship is a good thing; It's a God thing.
Nobody likes to be weak or face hardships and persecutions, but here Paul says we should delight in these things. How can these things be good?
In order to live for Christ and die to self we must let go of our fleshly control. We are born in sin, our flesh, our natural desires, are at odds with God. The older we get before we let go of those desires the stronger they become. Those desires do not go away easily, they are who we are and it hurts to be separated from them. Through pain and through hardships our flesh becomes weak and Christ is able to shine through and fill us, therefore in our weakness God is strong in us.
Our natural abilities are to sin even if it appears good in our human minds. Sin is anything done apart from God. We can feed the poor but if it is done without God, it is sin. Remember 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.” Love is God and God is Love. Without Love (God) we are nothing. Without pain and hardship we are controlled by our flesh (sinful desires). With pain and hardship the control is broken and Jesus reigns in us. When we are in the middle of this pain and hardship we don't want to hear that it is a good thing. In fact we often ask why does God allow bad things to happen? The answer is: because He loves us, it's for our own good. Pain and hardship is a good thing; It's a God thing.
August 26, 2010
“I am making everything new!” Revelation 21:5
Read this verse over and over. What is God whispering to you?
What does it mean to make everything new?
This message is often associated with future events; times still to come; the end times. Let's study the words. It says I am making everything new not I will or I did. This is a present tense statement. We can apply these words to us today. Through faith we are made new. We are no longer slaves to sin but we have been set free. We are no longer the same. In these times of heartache and pain, these times of disappointment and let downs, we can have hope that things will be better, things are changing for good. It may appear that things are getting worse, but God is preparing us for our reward, heaven. He is also reaching out to the world. Where ever there is tragedy, where ever there is need, we are God's hands and feet reaching out to the lost. We are the light shining in the darkness. You may have experienced someone shining the light for you or reaching out to show you the way, now is our turn to do the same. If we listen and follow God's lead we will see our neighborhood transform, we will see our city, our county, our state, our nation, our world be made new right in front of our eyes. It only takes a spark to get a fire to burn. Take your candle and light the next persons candle. Don't think that you must do some great act to start something, it is the little things that will make the biggest difference. A smile to someone having a bad day, a hug for someone who is feeling alone, words of encouragement to uplift the rejected. What can you do today?
What does it mean to make everything new?
This message is often associated with future events; times still to come; the end times. Let's study the words. It says I am making everything new not I will or I did. This is a present tense statement. We can apply these words to us today. Through faith we are made new. We are no longer slaves to sin but we have been set free. We are no longer the same. In these times of heartache and pain, these times of disappointment and let downs, we can have hope that things will be better, things are changing for good. It may appear that things are getting worse, but God is preparing us for our reward, heaven. He is also reaching out to the world. Where ever there is tragedy, where ever there is need, we are God's hands and feet reaching out to the lost. We are the light shining in the darkness. You may have experienced someone shining the light for you or reaching out to show you the way, now is our turn to do the same. If we listen and follow God's lead we will see our neighborhood transform, we will see our city, our county, our state, our nation, our world be made new right in front of our eyes. It only takes a spark to get a fire to burn. Take your candle and light the next persons candle. Don't think that you must do some great act to start something, it is the little things that will make the biggest difference. A smile to someone having a bad day, a hug for someone who is feeling alone, words of encouragement to uplift the rejected. What can you do today?
August 27, 2010
“For I, the LORD your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, ‘Fear not, I am the one who helps you.” Isaiah 41:13 ESV
Read this verse over and over. What is God whispering to you?
Sometimes we get overwhelmed. Whether it is because of stress or pain, God is there to help. Next time you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders close your eyes and imagine God beside you holding your hand. He will lead you along your path of life and not let anything that you can't handle happen to you.
Another exercise that you can try is pray to God asking Him to take your stress or pain from you then take a deep breath and as you let it out, let go of your stress or pain and allow God to carry it for you.
Sometimes we get overwhelmed. Whether it is because of stress or pain, God is there to help. Next time you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders close your eyes and imagine God beside you holding your hand. He will lead you along your path of life and not let anything that you can't handle happen to you.
Another exercise that you can try is pray to God asking Him to take your stress or pain from you then take a deep breath and as you let it out, let go of your stress or pain and allow God to carry it for you.
August 28, 2010
“So don't be dismayed when the wicked grow rich, and their homes become ever more splendid. For when they die, they carry nothing with them. Their wealth will not follow them into the grave.” Psalms 49:16-17 NLT
Read this verse over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
How do they do it, How do they afford those things, Why do they seem to prosper and yet I am struggling? These are questions I have asked God. Worse yet I see someone who is cheating the system or doing things that are wicked in Gods eyes and I see them become very successful and think if I did that I wouldn't have to worry about money. I am such a sinner. I am tempted by wealth. Wealth only brings momentary happiness. Faithfulness in God brings everlasting peace. I cannot fill my emptiness with possessions only God fits in that hole. Our possessions cannot help us in the afterlife. I can't buy my way into Heaven. St. Peter doesn't take bribes at the Pearly Gates. So I struggle, but through prayer and reading the Bible I am filled and comforted. God has chosen me to live the lifestyle that I live. I am rewarded beyond what I deserve. Thank God for His mercy and grace.
This weekend meditate on these questions: What do I desire? Do I deserve it? Is it necessary to live a faithful life? What has God given me? How can I desire what God has given me?
How do they do it, How do they afford those things, Why do they seem to prosper and yet I am struggling? These are questions I have asked God. Worse yet I see someone who is cheating the system or doing things that are wicked in Gods eyes and I see them become very successful and think if I did that I wouldn't have to worry about money. I am such a sinner. I am tempted by wealth. Wealth only brings momentary happiness. Faithfulness in God brings everlasting peace. I cannot fill my emptiness with possessions only God fits in that hole. Our possessions cannot help us in the afterlife. I can't buy my way into Heaven. St. Peter doesn't take bribes at the Pearly Gates. So I struggle, but through prayer and reading the Bible I am filled and comforted. God has chosen me to live the lifestyle that I live. I am rewarded beyond what I deserve. Thank God for His mercy and grace.
This weekend meditate on these questions: What do I desire? Do I deserve it? Is it necessary to live a faithful life? What has God given me? How can I desire what God has given me?
August 30, 2010
“Now all of you together are Christ's body, and each one of you is a separate and necessary part of it.” 1 Corinthians 12:27 NLT
Read this verse over and over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
You were created with a purpose. We all were created to be part of Christ's body. We each have an important role to play. If we don't fulfill our part or try to do someone else's part the body is incomplete. You're not part of just one body. Christ's body is the Church but it is also any group that you are a part of in Christ's name, for example your family, your friends, a prayer group, your work, any clubs or volunteer activates. You may be asking how is work a form of Christ's body, there aren't very many people who are Christians and I don't talk about it. You are a Christian; you always represent Christ whether you say anything or not. Your actions are just as important as your words. At work you are an important part of Christ's body. You are there to shine Christ's light so that His body can be more complete as others believe. Do not think that you aren't important, God chose you. Every part of the body is necessary and in God's eyes no one part is better or more important than the other. Fulfill your purpose by following God's will for your life.
You were created with a purpose. We all were created to be part of Christ's body. We each have an important role to play. If we don't fulfill our part or try to do someone else's part the body is incomplete. You're not part of just one body. Christ's body is the Church but it is also any group that you are a part of in Christ's name, for example your family, your friends, a prayer group, your work, any clubs or volunteer activates. You may be asking how is work a form of Christ's body, there aren't very many people who are Christians and I don't talk about it. You are a Christian; you always represent Christ whether you say anything or not. Your actions are just as important as your words. At work you are an important part of Christ's body. You are there to shine Christ's light so that His body can be more complete as others believe. Do not think that you aren't important, God chose you. Every part of the body is necessary and in God's eyes no one part is better or more important than the other. Fulfill your purpose by following God's will for your life.
August 31, 2010
“He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.” Psalm 126:6
Read this verse over and over. What is the Spirit whispering to you?
What is meant by carrying seed to sow?
Even in our grief we are witnesses. In fact it can be said that we are given struggle and hardship to make us better witnesses. Everyone experiences hardship. Everyone will experience loss and will grieve. When we experience the same things we are given insight in those struggles giving us opportunity to share the hope that we have that helps us get through those tough times. We are given a reason to help someone going through what we have already experienced. Think of these times as training. God will place someone who is going through something that you have already or are experiencing. If we are ready to witness at those times our tears will be turned to joy because of how God will use us and how He will fill us as we serve Him.
Meditate today on what you have experienced in your past or what you are going through right now. How can God use you through those experiences? Who can you help because of those experiences?
What is meant by carrying seed to sow?
Even in our grief we are witnesses. In fact it can be said that we are given struggle and hardship to make us better witnesses. Everyone experiences hardship. Everyone will experience loss and will grieve. When we experience the same things we are given insight in those struggles giving us opportunity to share the hope that we have that helps us get through those tough times. We are given a reason to help someone going through what we have already experienced. Think of these times as training. God will place someone who is going through something that you have already or are experiencing. If we are ready to witness at those times our tears will be turned to joy because of how God will use us and how He will fill us as we serve Him.
Meditate today on what you have experienced in your past or what you are going through right now. How can God use you through those experiences? Who can you help because of those experiences?
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ablaue@goddireciton.com
ablaue@goddireciton.com