Scripture
1 Peter 1:6-9
In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.
Observation
Be happy even though you have to go through times of grief, suffering, and aggravation that leaves you feeling pretty distressed and full of sorrow and disappointment. In the end, it's proving that your faith in God is genuine and goes deep. It's more valuable than even the most precious of metals on earth, which will pass away; but faith - real faith in God will remain! When I have faith and trust God, it brings honor and glory to Jesus Christ, God's Son. Even intense fire and flame will not destroy the proving faith that trials bring. You love Him and trust Him and believe in Him, even though you haven't see Him. That's FAITH! So, that's why we are glad and extremely happy because we are receiving the salvation and deliverance of our souls when we believe God in the midst of hard times!
Application
This portion of scripture is a great reminder for me to embrace the Lord in each situation and the challenges I face. I can rejoice that my faith will only get stronger through trials when I yield to the Savior and declare what great things He has done for me! Don't be downcast, distressed, grieving, or sorrowful - don't hang your head! Lift up your head! Jesus is the glory and lifter of my head, and I can be thankful and sing praises to the One who is saving my soul! I have been counted worthy to have my faith tested, tried, and refined. The reward is my salvation and a place in heaven along with those who have gone before me. And one day, I will get to go 'home' too!
Prayer
O Father, in my life be glorified! Give me faith for today to stand on the promise that You will never leave me or forsake me. Help me to 'Have Faith' when life is hard. May I love You more and more as heaven draws nearer and nearer! In Jesus Name, A-men.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Walking My Talk
Scripture
James 3:1-2
Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, also able to bridle his whole body.
Observation
Teachers are held accountable and judged by God and man with a more stringent standard than those who do not teach God's Word. All of us stumble, especially when we open our mouths more than we should. We aren't perfect, only God is perfect. If we were perfect, we'd get things right. But being imperfect as we are - we mess up.
Application
When we declare God's Word, whether it's from a pulpit, teaching in Sunday School class, or sitting around a table with friends, we better be 'walking our talk' because people see right through a facade, a superficial appearance or illusion of being spiritual or seeming like we have it more together than we really do.
Prayer
Father, thank You for opportunities to proclaim Your truths and to be transparent to those hungry for You. Help me to 'walk my talk.' Thank You for showing me areas I need Your touch. I avail myself to You for adjustment and correction. I humble myself before You and may I take discipline with a quiet and submitted spirit and godly attitude. Deal with me according to Your will and purpose because You love me. Help me to speak Your Word accurately, and may my actions and attitudes reflect the transforming power of the Holy Spirit working in me. In Jesus Name, A-men.
James 3:1-2
Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, also able to bridle his whole body.
Observation
Teachers are held accountable and judged by God and man with a more stringent standard than those who do not teach God's Word. All of us stumble, especially when we open our mouths more than we should. We aren't perfect, only God is perfect. If we were perfect, we'd get things right. But being imperfect as we are - we mess up.
Application
When we declare God's Word, whether it's from a pulpit, teaching in Sunday School class, or sitting around a table with friends, we better be 'walking our talk' because people see right through a facade, a superficial appearance or illusion of being spiritual or seeming like we have it more together than we really do.
Prayer
Father, thank You for opportunities to proclaim Your truths and to be transparent to those hungry for You. Help me to 'walk my talk.' Thank You for showing me areas I need Your touch. I avail myself to You for adjustment and correction. I humble myself before You and may I take discipline with a quiet and submitted spirit and godly attitude. Deal with me according to Your will and purpose because You love me. Help me to speak Your Word accurately, and may my actions and attitudes reflect the transforming power of the Holy Spirit working in me. In Jesus Name, A-men.
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