You are not going through this alone

"... but One Who has been tempted in every respect as we are, yet without sinning."  Hebrews 4:15 AMPC

No matter how alone you feel, how afraid you are, how unsure your situation, or how difficult it is to make a decision, remember this:  Jesus is with you, He has been through this too, and He is holding you all the way through.  He was able to make it through without sinning, and so can you - you are His precious child, and you can do this!!  Therefore, if you are unsure of what to do, then wait on peace to fill your heart before making a decision.  If time is not an option, and decisions must be made, then do your best to make the decision that you think Jesus would make.  I sometimes feel that when we are unsure of what to do, it is Jesus's way of saying, "Go ahead and make the decision you want to make, and I will make sure it turns out to be the right decision.".  

So, remember, you are never going through anything alone, Jesus has been through it all, and has had to make the same decisions that you do - if He was able to go through it without sinning, then you have His power to go through them without sinning as well.    Yes, life is hard, but God is above life, and that means that you are able, you are strong, you can, and will, overcome, and God will see you through to the end.  My friend, hang tight, and know that you are going to come out of this just fine, and more blessed than you were before.

You will be the victor

"For because He Himself [in His humanity] has suffered in being tempted (tested and tried), He is able [immediately] to run to the cry of (assist, relieve) those who are being tempted and tested and tried [and who therefore are being exposed to suffering]." Hebrews 2:18 AMPC

Yes, your hurting, you are having a hard time, things don't seem to be going your way, and the world around you seems to be falling apart, but take heart, God is with you.  He is working through the pain and making it into blessings beyond comprehension; blessings that will hit you when you least expect them to.  Remember, God went through exactly what you are going through, and He did it just for you, so know this: He has a plan, He is with you, He loves you, and He is going to be glorified through the darkness; God wins, He will not bow down to Satan, and He will be your vindicator.  

My friend, stand strong, wait on Him, and know that you are loved, you are blessed, and when all is said and done, you will be the victor in these tough times. 

There is only One way to victory.

"... But you remain the same, and Your years will never end nor come to failure." [Ps. 102:25-27] Hebrews 1:12 AMPC

Money, friends, status, employment, etc., will all come to an end, so we mustn't focus on them for our security.  There is only One that is secure from here to eternity - His name is Jesus - and if we want victory, then He is the only One to focus on.  Therefore, stop focusing on your bank account, your title at work, your circle of friends, your accomplishment, and your goals - instead, focus on Jesus.  When you do, your bank account will grow, you will be promoted beyond your wildest expectations, you will have blessed friends that you can trust with your life, you will accomplish the impossible, and you will exceed goals that you once seemed unattainable.  

Friends, God is the way to victory in all things - so, if you want it, focus on Him, and victory will be yours for the taking.

Do what you know you need to do.

"... do what is fitting and required and your duty to do." Philemon 8 AMPC

You know what to do; you know the right thing to do; you know what your heart wants to do; you know what God has called you to do - So, do it!!

Be a difference maker for good,not evil

"Remind people to be submissive to [their] magistrates and authorities, to be obedient, to be prepared and willing to do any upright and honorable work, To slander or abuse or speak evil of no one, to avoid being contentious, to be forbearing (yielding, gentle, and conciliatory), and to show unqualified courtesy toward everybody."  Titus 3:1-2 AMPC

Friend, take these words as my reminder to you.  For me, as I read them today, I realized I've been falling short, and I ask, with all sincerity, for the forgiveness of God.  So, if you, like me, have been falling short, repent and begin anew; let's be difference makers for good and not for evil.

Calm, cool, and steady

"As for you, be calm and cool and steady, accept and suffer unflinchingly every hardship... ", (II Timothy 4:5 AMPC), because the Lord is standing with you, ready to deliver you from every hardship, assault, and evil that the world tries to throw your way.

God won't let you down, so give your hardships, worries, and fears to God, and focus on enjoying the journey you've been called for.

Persecution - trials and tribulations

“… persecutions I endured, but out of them all the Lord delivered me.”

II Timothy 3:11 AMPC

Yes, all of us believers will have trials and tribulations, hard-times, but with firm faith in Christ, He will deliver us out of them all.  He will make the impossible possible, and the hardships will become heaven-sent.

No nonsense

“But avoid all empty (vain, useless, idle) talk, for it will lead people into more and more ungodliness.” II Timothy 2:16 AMPC

Empty words only take you down dead-end roads – stay away from them.  Your life is too precious to waste on such nonsense.

Stay away from the nonsense

"But refuse (shut your mind against, having nothing to do with) trifling (ill-informed, unedifying, stupid) controversies over ignorant questionings, for you know that they foster strife and breed quarrels." II Timothy 2:23 AMPC

Set yourself apart from strife, quarrels, bickering, and controversies - be a vessel that God can use to change such nonsense, and an example that man can use to change the course of their lives.

For God did not give us a spirit of fear

“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.” II Timothy 1:7 AMPC

Fear is from Satan, not God.  Therefore, use the words of this verse, (…  He has given us a spirit of power… love, and of a calm and well-balanced mind… discipline and self-control),  to fight back the attacks of the devil. These words are your weapons and your key to victory.

Friend, you are filled with power, love, balance, discipline, and self-control - the Spirit of Christ.  So, receive them in, and know that with Christ you can conquer any attack of the enemy.

 

Irreverent babble

“… Turn away from the irreverent babble and godless chatter…” 1 Timothy 6:20 AMPC

It amazes me of the conversations, words, that come out of people these days… utterly pathetic at times.  So, do yourself a favor and refrain from joining in them.  However, if you have times that you must, then change the direction of the conversation with the words that you speak and the actions you display.  

 

Friends, dare to be  different with your words – dare to make a difference with your words.

Fight the good fight of faith

"Fight the good fight of faith; lay hold of the eternal life to which you were summoned ..." 1 Timothy 6:12 AMPC

You have been called,by God, to eternal life, so while on this earth, you must fight for it in all faith!!  Your level of faith is in how much you stand on God's Word and your sensitivity to God's voice, and in order to deepen your level of faith, you must spend daily, quality time with Christ - just you and Him.  Hence, the more faith in Christ, the stronger you are to stand in this world, to stand against the flesh and against Satan himself.   

My friend, now is the time to become a fighter - a fighter of faith, knowing that you are going somewhere, you are called, and God's glory is within you to take you places that no flesh can stand up against. 

Earthly and eternal destiny

"... Train yourself toward godliness (piety), [keeping yourself spiritually fit].  For physical training is of some value (useful for a little), but godliness (spiritual training) is useful and of value in everything and in every way, for it holds promise for the present life and also for the life which is yet to come." 

1 Timothy 4:8 AMPC

Maintaining your physical health is very important for our longevity, and our quality of life while here on Earth.  However, maintaining our spiritual health in Christ, is not only important for our longevity here on Earth, but our eternal life in Heaven as well.  Friends, when this life is over, there will be a whole new, eternal, life to be lived - make sure it is one seated in Heaven with Christ; forever with Him is something not one of us will ever want to miss.  Therefore, read, pray, learn, obey, trust, and walk out the Word of God - It is the Key that holds your earthly and eternal destiny's.

Everything God has created

“For everything God has created is good, and nothing is to be thrown away or refused if it is received with thanksgiving.” 1 Timothy 4:4 AMPC

This applies to you.  God created you! You are important, you are worthy, and you are blessed.  Think nothing less of yourself, and, no matter how bad it may seem in your life right now, God has a plan, and you, my friend, are the forefront of that plan.  Therefore, put your shoulders back, lift your head, and walk out the good walk that God has created you to walk.

Leadership

If you are called to lead your home, your social network, your job, your city, your church, or even your country, then aside from what the world says, here are the necessary qualifications written in God's Word (which, if followed, means you cannot go wrong, and which, if followed, will always surpass what the world says):

So, to be a blessed leader, one

"... must have no grounds for accusation but must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, circumspect and temperate and self-controlled; [he must be] sensible and well behaved and dignified and lead an orderly (disciplined) life; [he must be] hospitable... a capable and qualified teacher.  Not given to wine, not combative... not quarrelsome but forbearing and peaceable, and not a lover of money...He must rule his own household well, keeping his children under control, with true dignity, commanding their respect... and keeping them respectful." 1 Timothy 3:2-4 AMPC

Follow these guidelines, and none of your leadership roles will fail you.

Pray without anger, quarreling, resentment, or doubt

“… that in every place men should pray without anger or quarreling or resentment or doubt [in their midst], lifting up holy hands.” 1 Timothy 2:8 AMPC

How do you keep anger, quarreling, resentment, and doubt out of your life, out of your thoughts, out of your prayers?  By not letting them in from the get go.  The moment any or all of those emotions begin to entice your mind, flood them out with prayer and thanksgiving – hand them over to Jesus.  Not only will He ease your mind, but He will turn those dark thoughts into thoughts of love, mercy, compassion, and joy.

You are forgiven

“But I obtained mercy for the reason that in me as the foremost [of sinners], Jesus Christ might show forth and display all His perfect long-suffering and patience for an example to [encourage] those who would thereafter believe on Him for [the gaining of] eternal life.” 1 Timothy 1:16 AMPC

No matter what you’ve done, where you’ve been, or the road on which you may be walking now, it is never too late for God to come in and take over your life.  How?  Invite Him in, repent for your wrongs, and open your heart to Him.  The moment you do, He grabs hold of you, forgives you, and your life starts anew.  A new dawn begins to shine and the bleak future you once thought before you becomes a journey filled with peace, joy, blessings, fearlessness, and, most of all, God's undying love... a perfect love that will shine through your most darkest of dark hours.

 

Do the right thing.

“And as for you, brethren, do not become weary or lose heart in doing right [but continue in well-doing without weakening].” II Thessalonians 3:13 AMPC

Doing the right thing isn’t always easy, but doing the right thing in spite of how hard it may be, or how long it may take will bring God’s glory shining through your life in more ways than you can fathom.  So, keep on doing the good and God-like, (right), thing, and soon you will notice breakthroughs, blessings, and rewards that can only be God breathed into your life.

Comfort, encourage, and strengthen your hearts.

"Comfort and encourage your hearts and strengthen them [make them steadfast and keep them unswerving] in every good work and word." II Thessalonians 2:17 AMPC

How do you comfort and encourage your hearts?  How do you strengthen your hearts and make them steadfast in every work that you endeavor upon or word or speak?  By one man - Jesus Christ; by one book - The Bible.  

Without prayer and diving into the Word regularly, it is so easy to get sucked into the darkness,  but prayer and meditation on God's Word are almighty lifters of the darkness surrounding us; with prayer and time spent in the Word, you can feel Jesus surrounding you and lifting you up to new levels. Therefore, make a point to pray unceasingly - speaking with your mouth and your heart, as well, take time to read God's Word daily.  When you do, you can feel your heart soften, your breath become steady, and a new energy building on the inside.  Yes, when you do, you become comforted, encouraged, strengthened, and determined to do right by God in every word your speak,and work you undertake.

Your Defender and Vindicator

"...since it is a righteous thing with God to repay with distress and affliction those who distress and afflict you..." II Thessalonians 1:6 AMPC

God will defend you in whatever wrongs are done against you, but you have to let Him!  So, before you fall into sin by repaying wrong for wrong, walk away and allow Him to do so.  Otherwise, you may just find yourself on the wrong side of the road when God's blessings and glory come to shine through for those that know that know how to wait on Him for their vindication.

Be thankful

“Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstance may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will].”  1 Thessalonians 5:18 AMPC

Be thankful for everything, no matter what the circumstance.  Yes, I know, easier said than done, but God’s will is for us to be blessed, and when we can look beyond the circumstance and know that God has a good plan, I believe His blessings begin to pour down.

So, open your heart and hands to God, let Him know how thankful you are, and, in turn, I believe He will open your eyes to a whole new way of looking at your circumstances – you will be able to look at them through the eyes of God instead of the eyes of the flesh.

 

Encourage and edify

“But we belong to the day; therefore, let us be sober and put on the breastplate (corselet) of faith and love and for a helmet the hope of salvation… encourage (admonish, exhort) one another and edify (strengthen and build up) one another… [acknowledge and encourage and respect them all]…” 1 Thessalonians 5:8, 11-12

As children of God, we are called to be different: steady, full of love, hope and we believe in our salvation.  As well, as children of God, we are called to build up those in the world, and be lifters of light in the darkness.  Therefore, stand strong in God.  Wear faith, hope, and love at all times, be encouraging and do your best to build up one another -  be one that brings those lost in the dark to the doorway of Light,  Jesus Christ.  From there, He will take them where they need to go.

Dependent on God

But we beseech and earnestly exhort you brethren, that you excel to make it your ambition and endeavor to live quietly and peacefully, to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, being dependent on nobody [self-supporting] and having need of nothing!  Adapted from 1 Thessalonians 4:10-12

First off, work hard to take care of you and yours, and count on no one in this world to take care of your responsibilities for you.  Secondly, pursue peacefulness in all your endeavors, and let no mortal man rule your heart.  And most importantly, be completely dependent on God, because with Him no middleman is necessary - He will provide your every need.

Sueprhuman power

"...as it truly is, the Word of God, which is effectually at work in your who believe [exercising its superhuman power in those who adhere to and trust in and rely on it]." 1 Thessalonians 4:13 AMPC

God's Word is full of power, superhuman power, and those of us that believe and rely on it, are full of His power; no matter where your life is at right now, remember, God's Word isn't based on our feelings nor what is going on in the natural, but is based on our faith and our belief in Him.  So,open your arms, open your heart, and open your mind, because you, my friend, you are God's child, and as His child you you have power that goes beyond all human imagination!!  Therefore, call it out as such, and believe it in to the deepest, most inner-part of your soul.  As you do, power, strength, and might will begin to fill you, and those dark times that try to come against you, somehow won't seem so dark anymore.

Word and deed.

"Behave yourselves wisely [living prudently and with discretion] in your relations with those of the outside world (the non-Christians), making the most of the time and seizing (buying up) the opportunity. Let your speech at all times be gracious (pleasant and winsome), seasoned [as it were] with salt, [so that you may never be at a loss] to know how you ought to answer anyone [who puts a question to you]." Colossians 4:4-6 AMPC

Two questions: One, are you making the most out of every moment of your life?  Two, do you think before you speak?  

Our time here in the world is for a reason; our time here in the world is to follow the call of Jesus. So, if there are ares in our lives that bear and produce no fruit, then now is a good time to change those areas with fruit bearing deeds so that we will never have to look back and be saddened because we wish we would have lived differently... stopped focusing on certain aspects, and focused more on aspects that are God-called.

As for our speech, we could all use some extra thinking before we even speak a word.  So, join me and decide today to think before the words start flying out of your mouth.  I honestly believe that one simple word in the presence of another can either lift them up, change their lives, or give them hope they didn't have before.  No, we may not always know what our words do to others, but I'm positive of this: we will be held accountable to our words, and one way or another, (good, bad and ugly), our words will come back full circle.  In essence, make sure that what you speak to another is what you want spoken to you, because your turn will come.

Let peace be the umpire of your heart

¹⁵ And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one body you were also called [to live]...

Colossians 3:15-17Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC)

 

God's approval comes as peace in your heart for any matter, question, action, or thought.  Therefore, if you don't have peace in your heart, nor have ease in your mind, then right now may not be the best time for you to do what you are trying to do, say, or be.  Therefore, wait on God's peace.  When you do, the matter, question, action, or thought you've been pondering will, not only, be blessed, but will be filled with God's almighty glory

Your new, real self in Christ

The moment we decide to call ourselves children of the Most High God, is the moment we must immediately begin to pursue these characteristics written by Paul in Colossians (3:3, 8-15).  These pursuits must begin at the deepest part of our most innermost souls:

Since you have died, and your new, real life is hidden with Christ in God, put away and rid yourselves completely of all these things: anger, rage, bad feeling toward others, curses and slander, and foulmouthed abuse and shameful utterances, and lying.  Instead, put on behavior marked by tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, and patience which is tireless and long suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes with good temper.

So, even if you outwardly proclaim your salvation to the world, God knows your soul, and that is what will determine eternal life, or to eternal death - the choice is yours.  However, if your choice is for eternal life with Christ, then characteristics need to follow suite, and pursued with all might.  

Therefore, make a point to be more like Christ everyday - I guarantee your life will never be the same, and you will become like a fine wine... getting better and better everyday.

 

Our struggles are not against flesh and blood...

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”  Ephesians 6:12 NIV

Even though it may seem that man is your worst enemy, and nothing in life is going your way, that isn’t the case, it is Satan and all of his loyal helpers coming against  you, trying to attack your soul – don’t let them. Instead, be constantly on guard by staying, and standing, strong in the Lord– in Him the devil hasn’t a chance.  Remember, whatever may come against you, God has a way for you to conquer it.  So, don’t lose focus on Who is in control - with Him, your back is always protected.

 

God has already won the battles for us.

"[God] disarmed the principalities and powers that were ranged against us and made a bold display and public example of them, in triumphing over them in Him and in it [the cross]."  Colossians 2:15 AMPC

There will always be situations and circumstances that come against us to which we really wish we could avoid; situations that torment us mentally and, sometimes, physically.  However, since avoidance isn't an option, we must remember that those powers coming against us are already defeated by God, which means that those powers are only as bad as we make them to be in our minds.  

Our mental attitude and outlook towards our circumstances is what makes our circumstances either bad or good, because whichever the circumstance or situation, God has already taken care of them for us.   Therefore, our thinking must be in line with the Word of God.  If it isn't, then we will never live the blessed, peace-filled, joy-filled life that God has graciously given us, and died for us to live.  We must be on a continual fight against darkness with the Word of God, prayer, and thanksgiving. 

So, no matter what happens, from here until the day we get to be the good Lord in Heaven, let's start focusing on God, not the situation.  When we do, I know that the Light will come in,  and the darkness and fear within will begin to quickly fade away.

Praise God!!

Wisdom, knowledge, and insight

“In Him all the treasures of [divine] wisdom (comprehensive insight into the ways and purposes of God) and [all the riches of spiritual] knowledge and enlightenment are stored up and lie hidden.” Colossians 2:3 AMPC

Wisdom, knowledge, and insight are all found in God - found anywhere else, obstacles and curves are bound to happen.  Therefore, if you want divine wisdom, insight, and answers, the first time you ask, then call on God, He will give you the knowledge you need, and/or lead you in the direction to which you will find the answer.

Live your life on purpose.

"Look carefully then how you walk!  Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as the unwise and witless, but as wise (sensible, intelligent people), Making the very most of the time [buying up each opportunity], because the days are evil.  Therefore do not be vague and thoughtless and foolish, but understanding and firmly grasping what the will of the Lord is." Ephesians 5:15-17 AMPC

Live your life on purpose; live your life for a purpose - Live your life unto, and for God.  Living anything less will lead nowhere, leaving you spending precious time back-pedaling, trying to make all of your fruitless deeds, and wrong-doings, right.

Seemingly dark days

"[The Father] has delivered and drawn us to Himself out of the control and the dominion of darkness and has transferred us into the kingdom of the Son of His love." Colossians 1:13 AMPC

It is unavoidable, there will be what seems like dark days, (or, weeks, months, years), that we feel the life has been sucked right out of us - the carpet pulled right out from underneath us.  However, during those seemingly dark times of our lives we must, must, must, confess and hold firm in faith that God has already redeemed us from the darkness.  Therefore, the darkness we feel we've fallen into, isn't darkness at all, instead, it is a time in our lives that will not only bring us closer to God, but will also be turning point for our lives.  Therefore, keep on moving forward, even during those seemingly dark days, stay firm in faith, grab hold of God, and know this: everything happens for a reason, nothing is a surprise to God, and although we may feel lifeless,hurt, dark, and depressed, God will turn it around for our good.  

You are loved, you are a blessing, you are blessed, you ARE God's precious child!!

The glory of Him

As Paul prayed over the people of Colossae, I would like to pray this over all of you reading this:

"That you may walk (live and conduct yourselves) in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him and desiring to please Him in all things, bearing fruit in every good work and steadily growing and increasing in and the knowledge of God [with fuller, deeper, and clearer insight, acquaintance, and recognition]." 

Colossians 1:10 AMPC

You are God's child, and I pray that everyday you see the glory of Him shine through, and around, you more and more.

Your every need

“Any my God will liberally supply (fill to the full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19 AMPC

So, in essence, if you don’t have it right now, then you don’t need it right now; when it is time for you to need it, God will give it to you.

Do all things without grumbling and arguing.

^"14 Do everything without grumbling or arguing, ¹⁵ so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky. " Philippians 2:14-15 NIV

In the Amplified Version, the Word reads (something along the lines of), "Do everything without grumbling and complaining... be a bright light in this dark world...".   These verses bring me to the questions, If God were to come and show himself to you, would your life shine, or would your life be dark and dreary?  Are you proud to show God your life, or are you hoping He's not noticing right now?  Now, don't be misled, God notices everything, but sometimes, since we don't see Him, we think He doesn't, which leads us to fall into the flesh pretty easily. 

Therefore, work on making your life one that you are proud to show off for God.  Yes, it is extremely hard on occasion, but I believe the harder it is to be the light in the darkness, the more God is using your life as an example and a blessing to many who don't know Him.  Which also means, the more you fight to be shining light for God's glory, the more abundantly His good fortunes, blessings, and love, will be showered over you - and those are definitely good things which no one wants to miss.

Opponents and adversaries

"And do not [for a moment] be frightened or intimidated in anything by your opponents and adversaries, for such [constancy and fearlessness] will be a clear sign (proof and seal) to them of [their impending] destruction, but [a sure token and evidence] of your deliverance and salvation, and that from God." Philippians 1:28 AMPC

Keep being the child of God that you are.  You are bold, beautiful, courageous, and gifted; let no man, thought, or deed steal your confidence - let no man, thought, or deed steal who you were put here to be.  Be you!  

So, don't be shy, let your gifts and talents shine through.  Do what you feel God is calling you to do, and shake the dirt off your feet daily.  Keep moving forward, don't focus on the past, and let all evil and condemnation turn and run when they see you, God's child, coming their way.

He Who began a good work...

“… He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you.” Philippians 1:6 AMPC

You are made for a purpose.  God has a plan for your life, and one way or another, you will walk out and live that purpose.  So, If you feel yourself fighting through life, maybe it is time to step back and ask God to take the lead - you just might find that you’ve been trying to go down the wrong dang road for a mighty long time.  So, let God lead the way, and let the purpose He has made you for come to pass the way it is supposed to.

The full armor of God

“Put on God’s whole armor [the armor of a heavy-armed soldier which God supplies] that you may be able to stand up against [all] the strategies and the deceits of the devil.”  Ephesians 6:11 AMPC

Before we can dress ourselves with clothing, we need to dress ourselves with the armor of God; the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, and feet fitted with readiness and peace.  If we don’t, then we will not be able to live the peace-filled, light-filled, love-filled, life that God intends for us to live.  So, unless you choose to live in strife, darkness, and unhappiness, then make a point to put on the full armor of God every day – once you do, your life will never, ever be the same.

Love that is bullet-proof

“However, let each man of you [without exception] love his wife as [being in a sense] his very own self; and let the wife see that she respects and reverences her husband [that she notices him, regards him, honors him, prefers him, venerate and esteems, him; and that she defers to him and loves and admires him exceedingly].” [1 Peter 3:2] Ephesians 5:33 AMPC

Do you want your marriage to work?  If so, and I hope so, then this verse sums up the, how to, in a nutshell.  Not married?  Then this verse is one you won’t want to forget when you do get married.  Never planning on getting married?  Then, this verse applies to how you should love those in your life.

Yep, if you want to truly love someone and make it work, then take this verse to heart – God’s words are bullet-proof.

Walk in love

Be imitators of God! How? Walk in Love.

  

How do you walk in love?  By being this kind of person: warm, devoted, unselfish, loyal, concerned, respectful, honest, sincere, pure, and kind, to everyone.  Even people that are evil?  Yes!  You don't have to make a point to become part of their lives, and it is OK to keep your distance, but pray for them,  refuse to retaliate wrong for wrong, and let God do the rest. 

My friends, Love heals,  Love brings light, Love restores,  Love helps,  Love can conquer the devil,  Love can bridge the broken,  Love can conquer all the forces of darkness,  Love is everything ~

Love is God.

Do nothing to grieve the Holy Spirit

Strip yourselves of your former nature, your old unrenewed self, and be constantly renewed in the spirit of your mind, God-like in true righteousness and holiness.  When angry, do not sin, leave no such room or foothold for the devil; let the thief steal no more from you.  Let no foul or polluting language nor evil work nor unwholesome or worthless talk ever come out of your mouth.  Let all bitterness, indignation, wrath, rage, bad temper, resentment, slander, quarreling, contention, and the like, be banished from you.  Do nothing to grieve the Holy Spirit.  Instead, become useful and helpful and kind to one another, tender-hearted, compassion, understating, loving, and forgiving one another as God in Christ has forgiven you.

Adapted from Ephesians 4:22-32 AMPC

Live a life that honors God, and, in turn, you will have a life that is honored by God.

 

Without God...

“Now to Him Who, by (in consequence of) the [action of His] power that is at work within us, is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly, far over and above all that we [dare] ask or think [infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams]…” Ephesians 3:20 AMPC

Without God, life is limited.  With God, life is limitless.

 

You will never be alone in Christ

“Therefore you are no longer outsiders (exiles, migrants, and aliens…), but you now share citizenship with the Saints (God’s own people, consecrated and set apart for Himself); and you belong to God’s [own] household.” Ephesians 2:19 AMPC

In Christ you will always belong.  You are part of His household, which means, you will never, ever, be alone, unloved, forgotten, or rejected.

My friend, God loves you so much!!

 

The handiwork of God

“For we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Chris Jesus [born anew] that we may do the good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].” Ephesians 2:10 AMPC

You are the handiwork of God, you have been hand-picked by the Creator of the universe, and you have a predestined plan awaiting for you!  Therefore, let go of all your frustrations, anger, past mistakes, fears, and regret, and let God do what needs to be done to get you on the right path.  One way or another, He will get you there, so make it simple on yourself and LET HIM!

Examine your own work and conduct

"But let every person carefully scrutinize and examine and test his own conduct and his own work.  He can then have the personal satisfaction and joy of doing something commendable [in itself alone] without [resorting to] boastful comparison with his neighbor." Galatians 6:4 AMPC 

If you find that you spend a lot of time focusing on the faults of others, then some gear shifting is in order.  For instance, do you look down on those who make less than you?  Do you think of how your boss doesn't have a clue how to run his department?  Do you look down on those who are overweight, or underweight, don't wear nice clothing, or those that don't drive nice cars or live in nice homes?  The questions can go on and on, but what I'm really asking is, Do you spend more time thinking and worrying of what others are, or aren't doing, (or what others can, or cannot do),  or do you spend more time working with God to change you, and help strengthen your relationship with Him?  

Personally, I have many issues with comparing myself to others, but everyday, I get back up and start my day over with God, asking Him to change me and my thoughts, rather than to change anyone else; the more I do this, the easier life seems to get for me - I'm not living for the world, anymore, I'm now living everyday, more and more for God. 

If you haven't already, take my advice and start working on yourself, with the help of God.  Soon, you too will notice that the world seems to get easier and easier to deal with, you sleep better at night, and the truly important things in life because more and more special to you everyday.  Yes, we may have made some mistakes, but if we focus on God more and more in all things, then life just keeps getting better; life becomes something meaningful to live for, and our thoughts, actions, and mistakes will become learning experiences that will shine through with God's amazing glory.

Practices of the flesh

“Now the doings (practices) of the flesh are clear (obvious): they are immorality, impurity, indecency,

Idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, anger (ill temper), selfishness, divisions (dissensions), party spirit (factions, sects with peculiar opinions, heresies),

Envy, drunkenness, carousing, and the like…”

Galatians 5:19-21 AMPC

Re-read this list.  Are you living out any of these actions/characteristics?  If so, ask God to change and remove them from within, and around, you.  The Bible is perfectly clear: when you live by the flesh, you will not inherit the Kingdom of God. Therefore, it is utterly important that the characteristics in these verses be removed and changed for the good and God-like characteristics in line with Christ Jesus : love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, kindness, goodness, humility, self-control.  It’s not only a matter of your quality of life, it’s a matter of your eternal life… or death – the choice is yours, based on the practices you wish to pursue.

 

You are the heir of God through Christ

“Therefore, you are no longer a slave (bond servant) but a son; and if a son [it follows that you are] an heir by the aid of God, through Christ.”

Galatians 4:7 AMPC

Thanks be to Jesus, our chains,  bondages, fears, and set-backs have been taken away.  We are free to live blessed, full, joy-filled, loving, and honorable lives.  So, step out of the past; break free from the chains that are holding you back – they are yours no more.  Now, you have the arms of Jesus holding you, and He, my friend, is all you need to live an amazing, blessed, loving, fulfilled, and prosperous life that has been awaiting you – awaiting for you to take hold and run with it.

 

People of faith

"So then, those who are people of faith are blessed and made happy and favored by God..." Galatians 3:9 AMPC

Faith in Christ equals happiness - joy.  Faith in Christ equals blessed - overflowing and filled with the goodness of God.  Faith in Christ equals supernatural favor - miracles filled with God's glory.  Faith equals a great life - joy unspeakable.  And, most of all, faith in Christ equals eternal life  - darkness and destruction are no more.

God is not impressed...

“… God is not impressed with the positions that men hold and His is not partial and recognizes no external distinction…” Galatians 2:6

No matter your nationality, gender, race, creed, job title, financial status, community you live in, church you go (or don’t go) to, mistakes you’ve made, challenges you’ve faced, or mountains you’ve climbed, you are God’s child, and that is all that matters.  My friend, you are a conqueror, winner, victor, prized possession, and you are loved beyond comprehension - live like it!  God has an amazing future for you, and until you remove the defeat and darkness from within you, you will never be able to experience it.  So, remember Whose you are, kick the dust off of your heels, and walk into your future.  It is going to amazing, it is going to be blessed, and it is going to be glowing with God’s glory – all because He loves you so very, very much.

 

God or man? Who do you choose?

^" Now am I trying to win the favor of men, or of God? Do I seek to please men? If I were still seeking popularity with men, I should not be a bond servant of Christ (the Messiah)." Galatians 1:10 AMPC

Let me ask you, Are you trying to win favor of God or of man?  Are you trying to be popular in the world with man, or are you focused on winning God's favor?  If God isn't your answer to either, then changes are in order, priorities need to be set, and different choices need to be made.  God needs to be first and foremost in our lives.  If He isn't, blessings will be lost and darkness will consume your life.

Choose God - choose life!  Choose God - choose light!  Choose God - choose eternity.

Test and prove yourselves

"Examine and test and evaluate your own selves to see whether you are holding to your faith and showing the proper fruits of it.  Test and prove yourselves [not Christ].  Do you not yourselves realize and know... that Jesus Christ is in you - unless you are [counterfeit] disapproved on trial and rejected?" II Corinthians 13:5 AMPC

There's not a better way to put it: Examine and test and evaluate yourselves daily to see if there is anything, (sin, wrong thinking, darkness, depression, etc.), in you that needs to be removed.  If there is, and as humans we usually have something dark within, then we need to repent, and ask the Lord to remove it from us; ask the Lord to change our thoughts and actions.  I believe that it is so important for us to stay on our toes when it comes to sin and darkness that we hold on to.  In my opinion, it is what we hold on to that leads us to, or away, from God, so consistent accountability to God of our thoughts and actions is a must.  

Remember, God lives within you!  You are so unique, and so special - you have so much to offer this world.  So, don't let the dark-side of life get the best of you - don't let go of God, not even for a second.  Soon, your inner Light and beauty will come out naturally, you will have more confidence because of the Spirit within you, and the devil will stay further and further behind you, knowing that you are getting too strong for him to even want to deal with.

Power in weakness

"... My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness..." II Corinthians 12:9 AMPC

Weaknesses are not weakness when it comes to the Spirit of Christ.  No, they are strengths that are deeper than human knowledge can understand.  Therefore, try not to change who you are, (unless God is commanding), nor think too deeply into the why of your weaknesses.  Instead, think of the Power that lies within them.  That Power is Jesus, and not only will He perform amazing feats and miracles through your weaknesses (if you allow Him to), He will be more magnified and glorified in your life, leaving you closer and closer to the victories and blessings that are so patiently awaiting with your name written all over them.

Peace

“… for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light; so it is not surprising if his servants also masquerade as ministers of righteousness.  [But] their end will correspond with their deeds.” II Corinthians 11:14-15 AMPC

Satan is an expert in deceiving the human race.  Therefore, be on guard at all times; if you do not have peace about a choice to make, step to take, or direction to follow, then don’t make a move until you do.  When peace comes, then it is from God and that’s your queue to move forward.  As well, when you move forward in peace, not only are you making a God-blessed decision, you are stopping Satan in his tracks, leaving him incapacitated and incapable of stopping you in this next chapter of your life.

Lead every thought and purpose captive.

"[Inasmuch as we] refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and lofty thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God; and we lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ (The Messiah, the Anointed One)." II Corinthians 10:5 AMPC

Every thought you think, every purpose you embark on, should align itself with God's Word.  If they don't, then what you are thinking, and what you are embarking on is not right, not true, and isn't worth your time.  Therefore, dig deep into God's Word and make His thoughts your thoughts, make His purpose your purpose, and know that every time you do you will crush Satan further and further into the ground, disabling his action plan of ever trying to hurt you.

Sowing and reaping

“[Remember] this: he who sows sparingly and grudgingly will also reap sparingly and grudgingly, and he who sows generously [that blessings may come to someone] will also reap generously and with blessings.” II Corinthians 9:6 AMPC

The same goes for finances, as well as, actions, attitudes, words, deeds, and thoughts - you will reap what you sow.  

 

God's Word speaks much of this, such as Luke 6:38, reading, "Give and it will be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap.  For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." 

 

So, friends, whether it be finances, actions, attitudes, words, deed, or thoughts, it is important that you reap what you would like to sow, because no matter what, what you sow is exactly what you will reap. 

For our sakes He became poor.

"... He was [so very] rich, yet for your sakes He became [so very] poor, in order that by His poverty you might become enriched (abundantly supplied). II Corinthians 8:9 AMPC

Self defeat, poverty and lack, fear, destruction, hurt, pain, anger, torment, and death aren't for children of God's to have, so, as children of God's, we need to stop focusing on them as though they are.  My goodness, God sent His only Son to die for us, to take all of the death, poverty, and defeat away, and to give us abundance in all good and God-approved things in life, so, for that reason we must focus on the abundances He has given us. Therefore, call things that aren't as though they are and walk it out as such, because before our lives will change, our thoughts and attitudes need to change.  And, until we recognize God for Who He is, and what He can do for us, we are never going to get very far! 

Choices

"For godly grief and the pain God is permitted to direct, produce a repentance that leads and contributes to salvation and deliverance from evil, and it never brings regret; but worldly grief... is deadly [breeding and ending in death]." II Corinthians 7:10 AMPC

Wrong choices can go one of two ways: deliverance and salvation, or regret and grief; blessings and abundance, or destruction and destitution. So, be aware of your choices, for no matter how big or small they may be, your choices are gateways to your future; gateways to life or death.

You ARE God's temple!

"What agreement [can there be between] a temple of God and idols?  For we are the temple of the living God; even as God said, I will dwell in and with and among them and will walk in and with and among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.  So, come out from among [unbelievers], and separate (severe) yourselves from them, says the Lord..." II Corinthians 6:16-17 AMPC

I know I've posted similar verses before, but I cannot exaggerate enough that, YOU ARE GOD'S TEMPLE.  Yes, you!!!  Therefore, treat, act, and love yourself like it.  Yes, you may pray and love unbelievers, but you do not have to come in close relationship with them, unless you are influencing them, and them not influencing you.  If you have no choice, and you are currently in close relationship with someone, or with an entire family, then it is up to you to stand strong in Christ; dive into His Word daily, get the help of fellow believers for prayer and support, and make up your mind that you will not bow down to their unbelieving habits, hang-ups, attitudes, and injustices.  Love them with all of your heart, but let them not change you, or your spirit.  I believe, and have experienced, that the more you love someone on the verge of belief or unbelief; that the more your actions show you are truly a believer in Christ, then that person will begin want what you have, and soon, they will give their life over to the One and Only, Christ Jesus.  

So, remember who and Whose you are.  You are God's beautiful temple.  You are strong, beautiful, bold, courageous, and loving - you are a life changer.  Yes, it can be difficult, but remember, with God, nothing is too difficult.  Keep walking the good walk of faith, and make this life of yours mean something ~ something life-changing.

What do your actions say about you?

"For the love of Christ controls and urges and impels us..." II Corinthians 5:14

So, let me ask, What do your actions say about you?  Do they show that you love and live for Christ, or do they show that you love and live for self?  I believe if we all work on changing the selfish actions into actions that show our love for Christ, then all of our selfish wants and desires (that are God-approved) will come to pass all on their own.  So, throw yourself into works and actions that glorify God, and see if your life doesn't become more blessed than anything you could ever make happen in your own self.

Into His likeness

^"18 And we all, with unveiled face, continually seeing as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are progressively being transformed into His image from [one degree of] glory to [even more] glory, which comes from the Lord, [who is] the Spirit." 2 Corinthians 3:18 AMP

Look in the mirror!  You, yes you, are being made, more and more, into the likeness of God everyday; you are being transformed and renewed with His miraculous glory.  Therefore, you are amazing, beautiful, bold, unique, loved, and you are truly a blessing.  So, put your shoulders back and live this life of yours - the Spirit has mighty works to do through you, His precious, chosen child.

Comfort in every trouble

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of sympathy... and the God of every comfort... Who comforts... us in every trouble..." 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

At every turn, in every moment, whatever the circumstance, wherever you're at, God is there for you.  You are never alone, you always have a friend, and never will you have to mourn alone, God is there for you.  When life hits you hard, when the bad news doesn't seem to end, when nothing is going your way, remember, God is there for you.  So, grab on to God - this part of your life will soon prove to be one of the most blessed times of your life.

Let everything be done in love.

"Let everything you do be done in love (true love to God and man as inspired by God's love for us)." 1 Corinthians 16:14

Living life outside of love isn't living life at all. 

So, are you living?  If not, it's time to start.  Love others, love yourself, love your life, and, most of all, love God.

The last trumpet call.

"... we shall all be changed (transformed) 

In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the [sound of the] last trumpet call. For a trumpet will sound, and the dead [in Christ] will be raised imperishable (free and immune from decay), and we shall be changed (transformed)." 

1 Corinthians 15:51-52

So, let me ask, Are you ready; are you focused on God, or are you focused on doing what you want, when you want, and how you want to do it?.   

Remember, not everyone will hear the trumpet call - make sure you are not one of those.  How?  By staying focused on God, and His plan for your life; by staying focused on love and sharing it; by giving your life to Christ, daily, and continually kicking the dust off your heals; by, and most importantly, loving with every ounce of your being, and affecting even the most ungodly of ungodly's, so that they too will be able to experience the eternal power and love of our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus.

Eagerly pursue and seek...

"Eagerly pursue and seek to acquire [this] love [make it your aim, your great quest]; and earnestly desire and cultivate the spiritual endowments (gifts)..." 1 Corinthians 14:1

Living life by simply pursuing, sharing, and acting out the love of God, as well as, using our unique gifts and talents to encourage and strengthen others, will bring every good and Godly desire and blessing come to pass in our lives.  So, let's make life simple: live in, and become love, and use every gift for the edifying and building-up of those around us.  I believe if we focus on those two things, God will focus on the million other things we would like to receive and accomplish in this walk of life that we are so blessed to have.

What does love do?

Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy, is not boastful., conceited, rude (unmannerly) and does not act unbecomingly. Love (God's love in us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way, it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no account of the evil done to it.  Love does not rejoice in injustice, it bears up under anything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes are fadeless, and it endures everything.

Lastly, and most importantly, love never, ever, fails.

Adapted from 1 Corinthians 13:4-8

Friends, that is what love does.

Love is...

"And yet I will show you a still more excellent way [one that is better by far and the highest of them all - love]. 1 Corinthians 12:31 Everyday Life Bible

Love is healing, love is light, love is joy.  Love lifts the lowly, takes away the pressure, and destroy fear.  Love conquers the unconquerable, and stops Satan in his tracks.  Love knows no end, love is free to all, it makes the world go around, and soothes the soul.  Love wins!  Love forgives!  Love is forever!  

Moreover, and most importantly, God is love, and His love is free to all.

Made for each other.

^"Nevertheless, woman is not independent of man, nor is man independent of woman." 1 Corinthians 11:11 AMP

Men and women are made for each other, to stand together as a team, in equality; together, the two glorify and magnify God - life is blessed and beautiful.  However, when one acts superior to another, pride and racism are magnified and glorified - life is dark and destructive.  

Therefore, stand together, and God will bring blessings and beauty to the two, which no one man or woman, nor pride or racism, can ever experience alone.

Do it all for the honor and glory of God

"So then, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you may do, do all for the honor and glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31 AMP

Ask yourself, what actions and behaviors of yours God is proud of.  Then, ask yourself, what actions and behaviors of yours is He not proud of.  Whatever is on the list of the latter, ask God help you change; remove them. Then, spend your life working on the list that God is proud of, the list that God is glorified through.

I truly believe that if we hold ourselves accountable to actions and behaviors God is proud of, we will glow with His glory.  Then, no man, woman, or beast, will ever be able to deny that we are truly blessed children of the one and only - Most High God.

If you talk the talk.

"But (like a boxer) I buffet my body [handle it roughly, discipline it by hardships] and subdue it, for fear that after proclaiming to others the Gospel... I myself should become unfit [not stand the test, be unapproved and rejected]." 1 Corinthians 9:27 AMP

If you are going to talk the talk, then, you too, must walk the walk!

Oh, the power of Love.

"... but love (affection and good will and benevolence) edifies and builds up and encourages one to grow [to his full stature]." Romans 8:1 AMP

Love builds, love revives, love encourages, love heals, and, above all, love destroys the devil!  

Oh, how awesome the mighty power of Love - Oh, how awesome, the mighty power of God.

Paid for in full.

"You were bought with a price [purchased with a preciousness and paid for, made His own].  So then, honor God and bring glory to Him in your body." 1 Corinthians 6:20 AMP

Treat and take care of yourself as if your body, mind, and soul are God's Holy Temple, because, His Holy Temple is exactly what you are.  Therefore, immorality, torture, addiction, pain, and illness needs to be addressed - if it isn't something Jesus would do, then it isn't something you should do either. 

Purge the darkness from within

7 Get rid of the old yeast that you may be a new batch without yeast--as you really are. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.¹

8 Therefore let us keep the Festival, not with the old yeast, the yeast of malice and wickedness, but with bread without yeast,² the bread of sincerity and truth.

1 Corinthians 5:7-8 NIV

 

Let’s make it a point to continually purge the dark, wicked, sinful thoughts, deeds, wishes, etc., from within by holding ourselves accountable to God and His Word.  I think one of the best things that we can ask ourselves on a continual basis is, “Is this something Jesus would say, do, or think?”.  If He wouldn’t, then we need to immediately begin to replace those wrong thoughts with His Word, and ask Him to help cleanse us of the unrighteousness we hold. Not only will our outlook on life be enlightened, but it will make Satan bow his head in defeat, and that, my friend, is something that can’t be passed up.