Good morning loving, caring, enduring and endearing, strong, courageous, anointed, Holy Spirit filled, tithing, church attending, blessed and highly favored beacons of light!
2 Thessalonians 1:4-6
“We proudly tell God’s other churches about your endurance and faithfulness in all the persecutions and hardships you are suffering. 5 And God will use this persecution to show his justice and to make you worthy of his Kingdom, for which you are suffering. 6 In his justice he will pay back those who persecute you.”
In this life we will have trials and tribulations, but what better opportunity to show Christ’s love than while under these worldly pressures. As believers in Christ’s resurrection and the power of His Blood, we are called to be different, not called to be obnoxious or overbearing about our faith, but we are to walk in love, peace and joy, no matter the circumstance. We have all met people who claim to know Christ but their actions, words and motives prove otherwise. We will be judged and rewarded or not rewarded (2 Corinthians 5:10) for our time on this earth and through our transformation in Jesus Christ we are instructed to be the light. In relation to this message, there are two Christ inspired life lessons we should consider. One is Christ invested in people, no matter where He was or what He was doing, He invested His teaching, healing, love and compassion into people. He took the time to show love to those around Him and give each person He came in contact with a moment to see
God's glory through Him. We are called to do the same; slow down, take time and show God’s unconditional love, forgiveness and glory through you. Let’s look at the lady in Bethany that poured oil over Jesus’ head. Mark 14:9, “I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached throughout the world, this woman’s deed will be remembered and discussed.” Even though certain disciples were upset and thought the oil should not be wasted, Jesus made the point that she knew what was important at the time, what needed to be done and that her “deed will be remembered and discussed.” When we pass away, what is more important? Leaving things or leaving a legacy of love? Second, when Christ carried the cross He carried it through the city streets for everyone to see. He did not carry it down alleyways or areas to hide, but His burden was carried out in public for everyone to experience the light and see the difference. Through it all, He held on to His faith, knowing the Truth, He fulfilled God’s will for His life. He walked the walk and talked the talk. As we walk through this world on our way to our eternal home, we should examine our lives and through the infilling and power of the Holy Spirit live a life glorifying God. Walking out a representation of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ by loving and forgiving those around us. If we mess up, that is ok, God’s mercies are renewed every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23) and through His Grace He has chosen to cover your past. Keep looking forward with your eyes on Jesus, forgive yourself, forgive others, love in all circumstances and walk in the blessings and favor Christ died on the cross for you to have.
Dear Lord, we pray that You would renew, restore and encourage our hearts, souls and minds. That through Your Blood, our spirits would be lifted up, strengthened and made whole that we may be the difference You created us to be. We give You all the glory, honor and praise. In Jesus’ mighty name we pray. Amen.
Shalom!!
Photo by Sherry Childers
Comentários