"I LOVE JESUS, YES I DO! I LOVE JESUS, HOW 'BOUT YOU?" (chant aloud)
If only we would get this excited about Jesus.
Priorities are a big issue in many people's lives. We put so much emphasis on the smallest things, yet fail to realize what matters most.
So let's ponder that question for a moment.....what really matters most in your life. Make a list of your priorities.
As much as I would like to put Jesus at the top of my priorities, honestly it doesn't always happen that way. So many things can get in the way of our relationship with God that just really don't matter. But when it comes down to it, when we put God as our number one then everything else will fall into place. So why don't we just do it right the first time? Duh, we're human. Period. That explains it all. We're not perfect. And we want to do things OUR way.
Bear with me now, I'm about to step on some people's toes, I'm afraid. But nevertheless, here goes.
I think a big issue in our culture today is the major emphasis on sports. Don't get me wrong, sports are not bad in and of themselves. I personally played basketball in high school and am a UNC fan. But the emphasis some people put on these activities is kind of ridiculous. Some people may call it passion, I guess, but putting this "passion" above Jesus Christ is a "no, no."
I hope none of this comes across as judgmental, because that's not the point I am trying to make. All I'm saying is we, as Americans, as Christians, as human beings have screwed up priorities. And we are in desperate need of a Savior to lead and guide and direct our path.
Priority screw up numero dos, the busyness of everyday life. That's a big one for everybody. Especially those who are married and have kids. So that one is pretty self explanitory. Things during your day get in the way of spending time with Jesus.
There's so many things that get in the way of our relationship with God. Anything that is a distraction or you put above the one true God is ultimately an idol. OOOH! I think I just hit the nail on the head. But of course, growing up in church we are taught to put God first. It says it right in the ten commandments. But realizing that this is what you do when you choose to spend time doing something other than seeking God is kind of an eye opener....to me at least.
So your challenge is to shout unto God with a voice of triumph and praise! Make His name known to all who will listen. Let's cheer for Jesus and His people!
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
DEFINING MOMENT
Defining moment: "a point at which the essential nature or character of a person, group, etc., is revealed or identified."
So when exactly do we, as Christians, have a defining moment? Or is there more than one defining moment throughout the course of our lives?
From the very beginning, even before we were born, God defined who we would be in Him. Whether we will ultimately accept these defining moments is up to us.
The Bible says in Jeremiah 1:5, "I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations."
"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb." Psalm 139:13
So I believe the first defining moment started when God began to create us in our mother's womb.
Defining moment number two happens when we choose to accept the Lord, Jesus Christ, as our Savior. And vow to live for Him with all that we have, knowing that we will always fall short of His glory. But always striving to daily die to the flesh and live in the Spirit.
John 3:16 (a favorite of many) says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
"For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live." Romans 8:13
"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." Romans 3:23-24
So far, our two defining moments cannot be from man; they are soley from God.
Our third defining moment in life is when we are prayed over and accept the baptism of the Holy Spirit. I didn't grow up around "Spirit-filled" people or churches, so this took me some time to truly understand. (if you can even really understand it at all...it's kind of a faith thing). But how amazing it is to be filled with the Holy Spirit. I now have a prayer language all of my own and when the Spirit leads, I pray, not knowing who or what I am praying for or about. There again, only God can define this aspect regarding our spiritual walk with Christ.
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Acts 1:8
"And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability." Acts 2:4
In our daily walk striving to follow Christ, I think we all have our own individual defining moments. These defining moments are such things as; being obedient to Christ by saying no to the flesh and saying yes to the Spirit and the calling God has placed on your life. The Bible says that God blesses obedience. So stop worrying about what other people think (afterall we are supposed to please God, not man....something I have to work on daily).
"Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them." John 14:21
"Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ." Galatians 1:10
So our defining moments in life are at birth, our acceptance of Jesus, baptism in the Holy Spirit, and other ways that we are obedient to the Lord in our walk with Him. Christ defines all these moments, not man. Lastly, our ultimate defining moment is when Christ returns to take His people home. If you're a Christian, we will spend all of eternity in heaven with our precious Savior. I believe Christians will be judged a bit differently than those who decide not to accept Jesus. We will be defined by our "good works" here on earth. But I'm not gonna get into all that, because I don't understand it quite fully. But I do know that we will receive a reward that we in turn will lay right back down at the feet of Jesus. While here on earth, we should always give back and praise God for all He has blessed us with.
"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad." 2 Corinthians 5:10
"Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done." Revelation 22:12
So when exactly do we, as Christians, have a defining moment? Or is there more than one defining moment throughout the course of our lives?
From the very beginning, even before we were born, God defined who we would be in Him. Whether we will ultimately accept these defining moments is up to us.
The Bible says in Jeremiah 1:5, "I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations."
"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb." Psalm 139:13
So I believe the first defining moment started when God began to create us in our mother's womb.
Defining moment number two happens when we choose to accept the Lord, Jesus Christ, as our Savior. And vow to live for Him with all that we have, knowing that we will always fall short of His glory. But always striving to daily die to the flesh and live in the Spirit.
John 3:16 (a favorite of many) says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
"For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live." Romans 8:13
"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." Romans 3:23-24
So far, our two defining moments cannot be from man; they are soley from God.
Our third defining moment in life is when we are prayed over and accept the baptism of the Holy Spirit. I didn't grow up around "Spirit-filled" people or churches, so this took me some time to truly understand. (if you can even really understand it at all...it's kind of a faith thing). But how amazing it is to be filled with the Holy Spirit. I now have a prayer language all of my own and when the Spirit leads, I pray, not knowing who or what I am praying for or about. There again, only God can define this aspect regarding our spiritual walk with Christ.
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Acts 1:8
"And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability." Acts 2:4
In our daily walk striving to follow Christ, I think we all have our own individual defining moments. These defining moments are such things as; being obedient to Christ by saying no to the flesh and saying yes to the Spirit and the calling God has placed on your life. The Bible says that God blesses obedience. So stop worrying about what other people think (afterall we are supposed to please God, not man....something I have to work on daily).
"Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them." John 14:21
"Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ." Galatians 1:10
So our defining moments in life are at birth, our acceptance of Jesus, baptism in the Holy Spirit, and other ways that we are obedient to the Lord in our walk with Him. Christ defines all these moments, not man. Lastly, our ultimate defining moment is when Christ returns to take His people home. If you're a Christian, we will spend all of eternity in heaven with our precious Savior. I believe Christians will be judged a bit differently than those who decide not to accept Jesus. We will be defined by our "good works" here on earth. But I'm not gonna get into all that, because I don't understand it quite fully. But I do know that we will receive a reward that we in turn will lay right back down at the feet of Jesus. While here on earth, we should always give back and praise God for all He has blessed us with.
"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad." 2 Corinthians 5:10
"Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done." Revelation 22:12
Sunday, December 4, 2011
heartaches: i cry out to Jesus!
Hear my cries, oh Lord. You know my heart and my anguishes seem to never cease. Hear me, oh Lord, and heal me. Heal my heart, my mind, my body. Heal me from the inside out. Be my rock and my salvation. My heart is heavy, but You, oh Lord, are strong. Hold me in Your safe, strong arms. Pull me up on Your lap, Father. I need Your loving, healing touch. I need You, oh Lord. I need You to comfort me. I need You to give me joy, real joy. The joy that only comes from You, dear Jesus.
Thank You, Father, for hearing me and for loving me unconditionally. Thank You, dear Jesus, for coming to my rescue when I call. When I call on the Name of the Lord satan flees. When I call on Your Name, oh Lord, I know You are right here with me. I know that Your mercies are new each morning and that Your love never fails. I know how precious I am to You, oh Lord. You created me in Your image.
Dear Jesus, help me to stand firm on Your truths. Help me not to be bogged down by this world. Help me to face fear and darkness with a new light and strength that only comes from You. You alone are good and worthy of all my praise. Help me to remember that in times when it feels like I can't go on. In times of struggle and pain, I know You are near. I know that this heartache won't last forever. I praise You that the storm is on it's way out. Even through the storms of life and in the darkest times, I know You are with me.
So Jesus, my prayer is that You hold me through this dark time. Hold me in Your arms and pull me close to Your heart and whisper in my ear how special and loved I am. Thank You, my Abba Father, that You care about every detail of my life. Thank You for surrounding me with people who genuinely love me. Thank You for freeing me from the bondage of sin. God I pray that I will be completely free from it all. I don't wanna be held back from doing what You want me to do. I am Your princess. You have made me worthy to stand up for You and do Your will. It's all about You Jesus. It's all about pleasing You, and not people.
I let go! And I'm striving to let God fulfill me and use me in whatever way His will leads. Keep me, oh Lord, on the straight and narrow. And when temptation of any kind arises, give me wisdom and strength to stand firm in what I know is right. Thank You Jesus! I love you!
Thursday, December 1, 2011
accepting authenticity
Webster's Dictionary defines authenticity as "true to one's own personality, spirit, or character."
I really strive to be authentic in all that I do, but sometimes I feel like I fall short of totally being myself.
I want to be real with people, but will people really accept who I am? And if they don't, then I believe they are not filled with God's love for who I am in Christ.
Which brings me to why I am writing this post; I have come to the conclusion that I have not totally accepted the authenticity of peoples' love for me. God has truly shown His love through His people for me. But I still question why these people have such a great love and acceptance for me. Don't get me wrong I am SO thankful for my church family who surrounds me with encouragement and a great love from Christ, but I guess deep down accepting why God has blessed me so much is mind boggling.
I know God loves me so much that He sent His only Son to die for me. Maybe I haven't totally accepted His forgiveness for me. The Bible says God forgives us our sins and then forgets them, so why is it so hard for us, as humans, to accept this? That's just it, we are only human. It takes time for us to heal from the bondage of sin. Being in bondage takes a toll on us physically, emotionally, spiritually, and mentally. So of course it is going to take some time for these things to heal.
Bondage- "the tenure or service of a slave." Who wants to be a slave to sin? No thank you! I'm choosing to be a servant of Christ!
Since I have been freed from this bondage, I have received many blessings from God, but I have faced consequences as well. I'm not sure if the physical pain I have been experiencing is consequences of sin, or if it's the devil beating me down because I am finally being obedient and following God. Either way, I ask for your prayers. Prayers of healing, prayers of comfort, and prayers of peace.
Through these afflictions God is everpresent. He has surrounded me with people that love Him and me uncondtionally. I'm not sure why, but asking for prayers for myself seems kind of selfish when there are people in so much more need than myself, but even writing that sounds crazy, because God cares about all of our needs, big or small. And I know that when God's people agree in prayer, then He is there and answers our requests...not always the way we see fit, but according to His will.
Well I knew this post would be kind of scattered, but these are the things that are on my heart today. I want to be authentic, and I want to be able to accept the authentic love for me from others. Afterall, what is the church for if not to love, encourage, and forgive others.
Most importantly, what does God's Word say about all this?
"I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you." Matthew 18:19
"My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body. Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life." Proverbs 4:20-23
"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:37-39
I want to be real with people, but will people really accept who I am? And if they don't, then I believe they are not filled with God's love for who I am in Christ.
Which brings me to why I am writing this post; I have come to the conclusion that I have not totally accepted the authenticity of peoples' love for me. God has truly shown His love through His people for me. But I still question why these people have such a great love and acceptance for me. Don't get me wrong I am SO thankful for my church family who surrounds me with encouragement and a great love from Christ, but I guess deep down accepting why God has blessed me so much is mind boggling.
I know God loves me so much that He sent His only Son to die for me. Maybe I haven't totally accepted His forgiveness for me. The Bible says God forgives us our sins and then forgets them, so why is it so hard for us, as humans, to accept this? That's just it, we are only human. It takes time for us to heal from the bondage of sin. Being in bondage takes a toll on us physically, emotionally, spiritually, and mentally. So of course it is going to take some time for these things to heal.
Bondage- "the tenure or service of a slave." Who wants to be a slave to sin? No thank you! I'm choosing to be a servant of Christ!
Since I have been freed from this bondage, I have received many blessings from God, but I have faced consequences as well. I'm not sure if the physical pain I have been experiencing is consequences of sin, or if it's the devil beating me down because I am finally being obedient and following God. Either way, I ask for your prayers. Prayers of healing, prayers of comfort, and prayers of peace.
Through these afflictions God is everpresent. He has surrounded me with people that love Him and me uncondtionally. I'm not sure why, but asking for prayers for myself seems kind of selfish when there are people in so much more need than myself, but even writing that sounds crazy, because God cares about all of our needs, big or small. And I know that when God's people agree in prayer, then He is there and answers our requests...not always the way we see fit, but according to His will.
Well I knew this post would be kind of scattered, but these are the things that are on my heart today. I want to be authentic, and I want to be able to accept the authentic love for me from others. Afterall, what is the church for if not to love, encourage, and forgive others.
Most importantly, what does God's Word say about all this?
"I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you." Matthew 18:19
"My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body. Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life." Proverbs 4:20-23
"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:37-39
Don't you want the seal of authenticity of Jesus Christ? I do!
John 3:16
Have you ever really thought about the significance and awesomeness John 3:16 encompasses? "For God so loved the world (all us sinners who continually disobey Him), that He gave His one and only Son (Jesus shed His blood to save us from what we deserve, hell), that whoever believes in Him (we confess with our mouth that Jesus is Lord) should not perish, but have everlasting life (will not die, in the spiritual sense, but live eternally in heaven with Jesus Christ)."
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
God doesn't make ugly!
The other day I was whining about not feeling pretty, and my dad says be quiet we (talking about himself and my mom) don't make ugly. It made me laugh :). But as I was thinking about that today, it makes me realize what our Heavenly Father says when we start complaining about the things of this world. The Bible says we are created in His imagine.
Genesis 1:27 says, "So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them."
God's Word also tells us that we should not worry about having the most fancy, trendy clothes either or what we will eat and drink. He will always provide for us what we need.
Matthew 6:25-29 says, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these."
So complaining about what we don't have or about our appearance is kind of a slap in the face to God, to put it bluntly. Think about it, we are created in God's image. Let that sink in for a minute. We've got some VERY big shoes to fill. Obviously we cannot ever measure up to God. Afterall we are only human. But we are called to be His hands and feet and a light in this dark, sinful world. God has called us to be like Him. Being filled with the Holy Spirit, I know I can do ALL things in His strength (Philippians 4:13). But when I try to do things on my own, that's when I start to fail.
Am I gonna still mess up and "slap" God in the face a few more times in my life? DUH! Of course I am. It's human nature. No use lying to myself or anyone else. But I am always striving to do what's right. Yes, the flesh may outweigh the Spirit a time or two, but thank goodness I serve a God full of grace and mercy, and my favorite...unconditional love!
"I know that I'm a princess, because my Father is the King of kings." And He has made me beautiful.
"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:14
Genesis 1:27 says, "So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them."
God's Word also tells us that we should not worry about having the most fancy, trendy clothes either or what we will eat and drink. He will always provide for us what we need.
Matthew 6:25-29 says, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these."
So complaining about what we don't have or about our appearance is kind of a slap in the face to God, to put it bluntly. Think about it, we are created in God's image. Let that sink in for a minute. We've got some VERY big shoes to fill. Obviously we cannot ever measure up to God. Afterall we are only human. But we are called to be His hands and feet and a light in this dark, sinful world. God has called us to be like Him. Being filled with the Holy Spirit, I know I can do ALL things in His strength (Philippians 4:13). But when I try to do things on my own, that's when I start to fail.
Am I gonna still mess up and "slap" God in the face a few more times in my life? DUH! Of course I am. It's human nature. No use lying to myself or anyone else. But I am always striving to do what's right. Yes, the flesh may outweigh the Spirit a time or two, but thank goodness I serve a God full of grace and mercy, and my favorite...unconditional love!
"I know that I'm a princess, because my Father is the King of kings." And He has made me beautiful.
"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:14
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Through Christ...
These hands are useless without Your touch, but through Christ I can do all things.
These feet wander without Your guidance,
but through Christ I can go wherever He leads.
These ears are not intune with Your Spirit without Your Word,
but through Christ I can listen to His voice.
Let my mouth sing praises to Your Name,
so that all may know and hear and feel Your power!
These feet wander without Your guidance,
but through Christ I can go wherever He leads.
These ears are not intune with Your Spirit without Your Word,
but through Christ I can listen to His voice.
Let my mouth sing praises to Your Name,
so that all may know and hear and feel Your power!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Wondering why you're wandering
Webster's Dictionary defines 'wander' as "to move about without a fixed course, aim, or goal; to go idly about; or to go astray."
Many times it feels like we are just wandering through life. But the awesome thing about being a Christian is we do not have to wander and muddle through, we have Someone who leads, guides, and directs our path. I know all too well how easy it is to stray off the path God has planned for your life. Been there, done that. There are many repercussions and consequences of straying off the straight and narrow path. The hurt, pain, and brokeness is not worth the short amount of pleasure or fun you experience during sinfulness. Take it from me, it is much better to stay in accordance to God's will for your life and to walk in obedience than it is to rebel against all you know to be true and right.
Here's some scripture to ponder on that backs up what I am saying:
"Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." Psalm 119:105
Knowing God's Word acts as a light in this dark world.
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."
Proverbs 3:5-6
We must trust in God and not on ourselves. Letting go and letting God is much easier said than done, but it is so worth it in the end. If we finally let go and give God complete control He will make our paths clear and straight. I like how the Message Bible words this scripture.
Verses 5-12: "Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life! Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best. Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over. But don't, dear friend, resent God's discipline; don't sulk under his loving correction. It's the child he loves that God corrects; a father's delight is behind all this."
So if you are "wondering why you're wandering," it's time for a spirituality check. I figure it's best to call it that, because I think a reality check has to do more with the world. Get into the Word and see how He speaks to you today. There's no need to wander when we have the "Light of the world" to guide us.
"Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14
Many times it feels like we are just wandering through life. But the awesome thing about being a Christian is we do not have to wander and muddle through, we have Someone who leads, guides, and directs our path. I know all too well how easy it is to stray off the path God has planned for your life. Been there, done that. There are many repercussions and consequences of straying off the straight and narrow path. The hurt, pain, and brokeness is not worth the short amount of pleasure or fun you experience during sinfulness. Take it from me, it is much better to stay in accordance to God's will for your life and to walk in obedience than it is to rebel against all you know to be true and right.
Here's some scripture to ponder on that backs up what I am saying:
"Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." Psalm 119:105
Knowing God's Word acts as a light in this dark world.
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."
Proverbs 3:5-6
We must trust in God and not on ourselves. Letting go and letting God is much easier said than done, but it is so worth it in the end. If we finally let go and give God complete control He will make our paths clear and straight. I like how the Message Bible words this scripture.
Verses 5-12: "Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to God! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life! Honor God with everything you own; give him the first and the best. Your barns will burst, your wine vats will brim over. But don't, dear friend, resent God's discipline; don't sulk under his loving correction. It's the child he loves that God corrects; a father's delight is behind all this."
So if you are "wondering why you're wandering," it's time for a spirituality check. I figure it's best to call it that, because I think a reality check has to do more with the world. Get into the Word and see how He speaks to you today. There's no need to wander when we have the "Light of the world" to guide us.
"Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14
What is right?
What is right? Lately I've been asking myself this. Is what's right for me, always what's right for you? Let's take a look at some scripture that gives us some insight as to what is right in this world.I think Philippians 4:8 is a great place to start on this journey of finding out what is right.
"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."
Okay, so we are to think on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. Well, what in this world that we live in lines up with these truths? Ponder on that for a minute before moving on to the next scripture.
Colossians 3:1-3 says, "Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God."
What does it really mean to set our hearts and minds on things above? I think it goes along well with the verse in Philippians; the things above are true, nobel, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. So we must not only think on these things, but set our minds on them. Often times I pray "in with the good, out with the bad." We must put good stuff in our minds, like the truths in scripture, so that we dwell on those things and not on the junk of the world. If we continually dwell on the things of this world, then we will eventually act on these thoughts. The Bible says that even if we think something sinful, then we are sinning.
"Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God." 2 Corinthians 7:1
It says in 2 Corinthians that we must purify ourselves from everything that contaminates our bodies and spirit and perfect our holiness with God. What contaminates your body and spirit?
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
Romans 12:2 tells us that we should not conform to this world. Webster's Dictionary defines conform as, "to be similar or identical." So the Bible says that we should not be similar to the world. The verse goes on to say that we must be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Well let's ask Mr. Webster for a better understanding of the word transformed. Transform - "to change in character or condition." Well how are we to change ourselves and renew our minds? The best way to do that is to read God's Word. We must fill our minds with His truths, and not satan's lies.
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" 2 Corinthians 5:17
If we really say that we're Christians and love God with all our hearts, then we are new creations. We're not the same ol' sinners anymore. We're sinners that have been forgiven by the grace of Jesus Christ.
"My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified." John 17:15-19
These verses basically tell us that, as Christians, we are in this world, but we are not of it. This world is not my home.
So let's get back to the question: what is right? Here's what God has been showing me.
First let me explain how I used to think about things. Up until recently I thought that Christians who steered clear of certain types of movies, music, or TV shows were crazy and radical. Types of movies, music, and shows that could open up our minds and allow satan to fill our thoughts with evil things and desires. My response would be that it's just a movie. Or I just really like the beat to the song, the lyrics mean nothing to me. I admit now that I was wrong in thinking this way.
Yesterday my sister and I watched several episodes of the "Vampire Diaries." We had been getting caught up on some of the older episodes we had missed. I'll admit that I enjoy watching shows such as this and never really thought about the repercussions it could have on me. So, after wasting several hours of my morning/afternoon watching the episodes, I finally start getting ready for my day. As I was taking a shower, I felt a dark cloud looming around me. I knew instantly that watching this show had caused some sort of evil to invade my mind. I struggled with this realization for a while. I knew and still know there are certain things I have to give up or steer clear of in order to continue living the abundant life God has set before me. My flesh struggled to hold on to the fact that I really wanna go see the new Twilight movie, Breaking Dawn, at midnight.
Now you might say I've become one of those crazy, radical Christians, but for me, watching and listening to things like this allows an avenue for evil to squeeze it's way into my life. Things that do this to you, should probably be eliminated from your life. Maybe you can separate reality from movies/music, that's great; but for me, what is right is to just stay away and to fill my thoughts with things that are true, nobel, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy.
I'm sure some of you are thinking, Kathryn has gone crazy. Well you're right, I'm crazy for Jesus. I wanna be able to call myself a Jesus Freak and actually mean it. I wanna be separated from this world, yet be in it enough to be able to bring "outsiders" to the light, to Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit has totally transformed my thinking and my life. Yes I still have A LOT to work on and MUCH to learn, but I know that God is filling me and using me for His glory. I'm overwhelmed by His love and grace and mercy. I wanna share His love with others. I want Jesus to love through me. Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
When we're walking in accordance to His plan and living in obedience to Him, He blesses us and works things together for our good. No, life will never be perfect on this earth. We will continually have struggles. And we will continue to sin and mess up, because that's what humans do. But I find it encouraging that we do not have to walk and live this life alone. Jesus is always here to lead, and guide, and direct our paths; and to comfort us and lift us up when we're down. He puts people in our lives to love and encourage us. He loves us so much that He died for all our dirty, messy, disgraceful sins; so that one day we can live in His Kingdom, heaven, with Him for eternity. He died for me, so I'm choosing to live for Him! Who's with me? Who is willing to give up the things of this world to truly seek their Savior? God never said the journey would be easy, just that it would be worth it. I want this to really mean something, and not just be words on a page. I know that someone needs this realization just as much as I do.
I pray that as you read this you will be filled with God's love and Holy Spirit. And that hearts will be convicted. Going through the motions in life is not what God has called us to do. God has called us to preach the gospel and to love others and to treat everyone how we want to be treated. There are so many awesome truths in the Bible. So let's wake up to those truths and start living by them. I love all of you. We need to surround each other with God's love. And be there to encourage and speak into other's lives. Please share this note with anyone you feel needs to hear it. I know that God has given me these words to share for a reason. And I pray I live up to the calling, whatever that may be, God has placed upon my life. Let's just all enjoy the journey and allow Him to use us for His glory!
"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."
Okay, so we are to think on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. Well, what in this world that we live in lines up with these truths? Ponder on that for a minute before moving on to the next scripture.
Colossians 3:1-3 says, "Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God."
What does it really mean to set our hearts and minds on things above? I think it goes along well with the verse in Philippians; the things above are true, nobel, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. So we must not only think on these things, but set our minds on them. Often times I pray "in with the good, out with the bad." We must put good stuff in our minds, like the truths in scripture, so that we dwell on those things and not on the junk of the world. If we continually dwell on the things of this world, then we will eventually act on these thoughts. The Bible says that even if we think something sinful, then we are sinning.
"Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God." 2 Corinthians 7:1
It says in 2 Corinthians that we must purify ourselves from everything that contaminates our bodies and spirit and perfect our holiness with God. What contaminates your body and spirit?
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
Romans 12:2 tells us that we should not conform to this world. Webster's Dictionary defines conform as, "to be similar or identical." So the Bible says that we should not be similar to the world. The verse goes on to say that we must be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Well let's ask Mr. Webster for a better understanding of the word transformed. Transform - "to change in character or condition." Well how are we to change ourselves and renew our minds? The best way to do that is to read God's Word. We must fill our minds with His truths, and not satan's lies.
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" 2 Corinthians 5:17
If we really say that we're Christians and love God with all our hearts, then we are new creations. We're not the same ol' sinners anymore. We're sinners that have been forgiven by the grace of Jesus Christ.
"My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified." John 17:15-19
These verses basically tell us that, as Christians, we are in this world, but we are not of it. This world is not my home.
So let's get back to the question: what is right? Here's what God has been showing me.
First let me explain how I used to think about things. Up until recently I thought that Christians who steered clear of certain types of movies, music, or TV shows were crazy and radical. Types of movies, music, and shows that could open up our minds and allow satan to fill our thoughts with evil things and desires. My response would be that it's just a movie. Or I just really like the beat to the song, the lyrics mean nothing to me. I admit now that I was wrong in thinking this way.
Yesterday my sister and I watched several episodes of the "Vampire Diaries." We had been getting caught up on some of the older episodes we had missed. I'll admit that I enjoy watching shows such as this and never really thought about the repercussions it could have on me. So, after wasting several hours of my morning/afternoon watching the episodes, I finally start getting ready for my day. As I was taking a shower, I felt a dark cloud looming around me. I knew instantly that watching this show had caused some sort of evil to invade my mind. I struggled with this realization for a while. I knew and still know there are certain things I have to give up or steer clear of in order to continue living the abundant life God has set before me. My flesh struggled to hold on to the fact that I really wanna go see the new Twilight movie, Breaking Dawn, at midnight.
Now you might say I've become one of those crazy, radical Christians, but for me, watching and listening to things like this allows an avenue for evil to squeeze it's way into my life. Things that do this to you, should probably be eliminated from your life. Maybe you can separate reality from movies/music, that's great; but for me, what is right is to just stay away and to fill my thoughts with things that are true, nobel, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy.
I'm sure some of you are thinking, Kathryn has gone crazy. Well you're right, I'm crazy for Jesus. I wanna be able to call myself a Jesus Freak and actually mean it. I wanna be separated from this world, yet be in it enough to be able to bring "outsiders" to the light, to Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit has totally transformed my thinking and my life. Yes I still have A LOT to work on and MUCH to learn, but I know that God is filling me and using me for His glory. I'm overwhelmed by His love and grace and mercy. I wanna share His love with others. I want Jesus to love through me. Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
When we're walking in accordance to His plan and living in obedience to Him, He blesses us and works things together for our good. No, life will never be perfect on this earth. We will continually have struggles. And we will continue to sin and mess up, because that's what humans do. But I find it encouraging that we do not have to walk and live this life alone. Jesus is always here to lead, and guide, and direct our paths; and to comfort us and lift us up when we're down. He puts people in our lives to love and encourage us. He loves us so much that He died for all our dirty, messy, disgraceful sins; so that one day we can live in His Kingdom, heaven, with Him for eternity. He died for me, so I'm choosing to live for Him! Who's with me? Who is willing to give up the things of this world to truly seek their Savior? God never said the journey would be easy, just that it would be worth it. I want this to really mean something, and not just be words on a page. I know that someone needs this realization just as much as I do.
I pray that as you read this you will be filled with God's love and Holy Spirit. And that hearts will be convicted. Going through the motions in life is not what God has called us to do. God has called us to preach the gospel and to love others and to treat everyone how we want to be treated. There are so many awesome truths in the Bible. So let's wake up to those truths and start living by them. I love all of you. We need to surround each other with God's love. And be there to encourage and speak into other's lives. Please share this note with anyone you feel needs to hear it. I know that God has given me these words to share for a reason. And I pray I live up to the calling, whatever that may be, God has placed upon my life. Let's just all enjoy the journey and allow Him to use us for His glory!
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