Selfless

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." Philippians 2:3-4

It's so easy to be giving and selfless when we're in the mood or mentally prepared for it. (For example: volunteer work, missions, church functions.) In our daily lives, are we genuinely happy to let the car cut in front of us at the last minute? Are we offering to do things for people because it's "the right thing to do" or because we want to have the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5)? 

 Honestly, sometimes I feel as though the works should revolve around me and everyone should look out for my best interest. Unfortunately, I've been gut checked by the Holy Spirit many times in that area. :) Now, I'm constantly renewing my mind in that area and genuinely looking for ways to serve others. We're called to submit to Christ and we need all the practice we can get! Are you selflessly submitting to Christ or simply selfishly serving your flesh? Happy Friday! 

2 Corinthians 12

"Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me." 2 Corinthians 12:8-9

In these verses, Paul is referring to a torn in his side, which continually humbles him. The ironic thing is that I was very humbled this morning. It was one of those mornings where everything seemed to go wrong. Like Being greeted with a parking ticket first thing in the morning... Or the service engine light coming on yesterday... Needless to say, if we are striving to be more Christ-like we have to continually renew our minds and refuse to let our "thorns" affect our attitude. Don't let your praise be determined by your circumstances. Happy Monday! 

Matthew 7

This chapter opens with some of the most quoted verses from the Bible. In fact, I'm sure some people aren't even aware that they're Bible verses. The old "don't tell me about the speck in my eye while you have a plank in yours." Sometimes, when I hear people say it, I'm thinking "humble yourself and take some constructive criticism!" My challenge to you with Matthew 7:1-5, is to look inward, before telling someone about their plank.   

“Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces." Matthew 7:6

What do pearls and pigs have to do with Jesus? I'm glad you asked :) The sacred items and pearls can be: your dreams, your vision, your talents, your time, or anything that you're passionate about. The pigs and dogs can be: naysayers and people who constantly "throw shade" in an attempt to deter you from your calling. Really this verse is saying, our "pearls" are gifts from God, so we much use and share them wisely and according to his plans. What are you doing with your pearls? Are you giving them away to those who don't appreciate them? They'll misuse and abuse them and leave you questioning if your pearls were even valuable to begin with. *Whew* y'all, that was deep...

"A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them." Matthew 7:18-20

The above verse was initially referring to false prophets; but ya'll know I like to bring things to the modern day vernacular. Let's look at the picture above. So many people wear the label of "Christian." They'll post that their favorite book is The Bible, they'll tattoo 116 (Romans 1:16) on their body, they'll repost inspired scriptures, the list goes on and on. But if you take away the fluff, what are they really about? Can you see their faith in their speech and word choice? Can you see Jesus in how they treat people? Is there something different about them or do they fade into the crowd? Who and what do people see when they observe your life?

Happy Friday!

He knows

"The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good." Proverbs 15:3

I love this verse because it shows that God is knowledgable of all that you do. If you're demonstrating good character, working hard behind the scenes, growing spiritually, and doing other positive things, God sees that. Of course you shouldn't do anything for recognition of man (Colossians 3:23), but doesn't it feel amazing to be thanked and spoken highly of? Whether or not that happens in the natural, God thinks highly of you. He knew the flaws and imperfections that you would have and STILL created you! You have a divine purpose. *insert praise break here* ha! Happy Monday! :)

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you" 1 Peter 5:6

"And to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3:19