April 2007
Even though we are called to love others as ourselves (part of the GREATEST commandment – Matthew 22:37-40); be identified as Jesus’ disciples through our love for one another (John 13:35); and preach a Gospel of love, there are situations where there is little unity shown among Christians. As we carry the torch of light into a world of darkness, we must be the example for others to follow…as we follow Christ. We must strive to be peacemakers for we will be called children of God (Matthew 5:9).
Each day has events, programs, and processes that demand our attention. We prioritize our events and tasks by the most important (or most interesting to fulfill our personal desires). In the midst of the busy day we must ask ourselves where do we fit God? In the morning? During the day? In the evening?
It is in God that we have our existence. We should continuously seek Him, reach out to Him, and find Him. He is not far from us (Isaiah 59:1).
Serving God should not be an afterthought. It is also not about what we can receive from Him. We can make time for God just to be with Him (i.e. just because it’s Monday or you want to sit before Him in prayer, praise/worship, etc.).
The condition of our lifestyle will tell how you have made time for God. What have you been doing this past week to fellowship with the Lord?
If you have not made time for God, what can you do right now to make time for Him?
Psalm 63:1-2 – O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary.
Photo courtesy of Photo courtesy of Stock.XCHNG.com/ColinAdamson
Each person is important to God and to His purpose for mankind. In some way, each person will be used to fulfill God’s purpose. As a Christian, I’ve struggled for many years trying to understand my specific purpose in life. Here is what I’ve learned so far:
1. Everyone has a purpose.
Ephesians 2:10 – For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Each person is called to a specific function to display good works. These works are to bring glory to God and to build up the saints. (This doesn’t mean you will hold a position within the church.) God will call you to a position/purpose He entrusts you to fulfill and will provide you with everything you need to be successful.
Throughout our lives we will meet people with great gifts, talents, and abilities. We admire their work and see the fruits of their labor born for good. If we are not careful, we will become envious of their ‘success.’ We will desire the same while looking at our own shortcomings and becoming sad, disappointed, and hurt.
Why doesn’t God use me like that?
In the times that I’m my own worse enemy I want to do right and walk a straight path Yet I allow temptation and sin to get the last laugh I cannot believe I’ve fallen again No matter how far I run My conscious reminds me of my sin Dizzy thoughts and troubles increase Lord, when will the and heartache cease How can I remove myself from the trials and pain Maybe I should end my life to keep from worrying again But a permanent solution to a temporary problem is what I see Ending my life will only bring pleasure to the one tormenting me Though the pain in my heart is real today It will surely drift in the coming days O Lord, give me the strength to rise again To be dusted off and cleansed from my sin Forgive me Lord for my acts of disobedience Teach me by Your grace to live like the One You sent He is my example, my Savior, and Friend He is my ever-present help when temptation comes again I will come to You and cause the devil to flee Because living with You is my eternity With Your help I can live beyond temptation’s call Walking in the newest of life healthy and strong Living for You is my strongest desire To please You always in spite of the situations that transpire O Lord, please deliver me from me.
Photo courtesy of CreationSwap/evancourtney
Proverbs 23:12 – Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge.
After years of public school (college, etc.), the last thing many people want to do is read and study. As disciples of Jesus Christ, you’ll learn that a lifetime of learning will be extremely beneficial in remaining faithful and committed in your walk with Him.
Reading, meditation, and study are just a few ways you can grow in knowledge, understanding, and find success in the Lord (Joshua 1:8; Psalm 119:104 ; Proverbs 24:3-4).
You might not need to attend Seminary or some other formal training, but you can:
1. read/meditate on/study the Bible
2. read Christian books, magazines, etc.
3. attend conferences and seminars
4. volunteer in a church department of education (i.e. Sunday School)
Photo courtesy of Flickr.com/h-k-d. Image covered under Creative Commons License.
1. Encouragers are everyday people.
2. Encouragers see past the faults of others.
3. Encouragers find ways to speak into the life of another.
4. Encouragers are sensitive to the needs of others.
5. Encouragers use their lives as a source of encouragement.
6. Encouragers often encourage others in the midst of their own trials and tribulations.
7. Encouragers do not allow opportunities to encourage to pass by.
Photo courtesy of Photo courtesy of Flickr.com/wwworks. Image covered under Creative Commons License.
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