Decisions

"And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left." Isaiah 30:21

The Bible teaches that believers are to seek Christ and he'll direct their paths. However, I can be a witness and say that God does not always speak as clearly as we want him to. We want a big flashing sign that says "do this, NOW!" Or a complete outline of our lives for the next 15 years. I've found, that sometimes he just wants us to take a step of faith. He wants to know that we trust him even when we don't understand. Are we willing to sacrifice our comfort zone in an effort to draw closer to Him? Step out the boat and run on water :). Happy Tuesday! 

"But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere." James 3:17

1 Corinthians 3

"Stop deceiving yourselves. If you think you are wise by this world’s standards, you need to become a fool to be truly wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness to God." 1 Corinthians 3:18-19

Have you ever been around people who know everything about everything? They don't take direction or criticism well? Those are the types of people in Corinth that Pail was writing to. Their vanity created conflict in the church. As believes, we should constantly strive for humility, patience and understanding. What are the areas in your life that you need less worldy wisdom? 

Happy Thursday! 

Pity Party of One

"Finally, brothers [and sisters], whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things" Philippians 4:8

Yesterday morning, I decided that I was going to have a pity party for one. Just thinking about how annoying it is get up and go to work...in the cold...and miss out on fun stuff (like sleep). Let me tell you, as soon as it started, I was convicted. And I was upset because the party was about to get good! Haha Honestly, how our days unfold depends on our thoughts, words, actions, and perspective. I had to change my attitude. Instead of focusing on a list of negative things, I focused on the positives. This is something that we should do daily. I'll write down good things and reflect on the at the end of the day, week, or month. It can be so easy to let a few negative things ruin our attitude and that ain't nothin but the devil! What are you allowing to consume your thoughts?  Happy Tuesday! 

Proverbs 18

"Fools are undone by their big mouths; their souls are crushed by their words" proverbs 18:7

Words are so powerful, that we can literally disqualify ourselves for blessings! "Fools" refers to believers just the same as unbelievers. Example: If God wants to bless you with a new job, but you're doing poor work at your current job, don't show up on time, and disrespect your boss (behind their back), why would you get blessed? Negative speech/attitude leads to destruction! 

"God's name is a place of protection- good people can run there and be safe" Proverbs 18:10

Where do you go when you're feeling emotional (sad, frustrated, angry...)? Your friends? Your parents? Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook? Or maybe you get a drink 'just to get through.' Only Christ can fill that void and offer comfort, regardless of the hour.

"Wise men and women are always learning, always listening for fresh insights" Proverbs 18:15 

Isn't it annoying when people act as if they know everything about everything?! The Word says that learning never ceases. This does not replace discernment. We don't need some things in our spirit, but that's another topic for another day :) 

Happy Wednesday!

Proverbs 16- Work & Wisdom

"Mortals make elaborate plans, but God has the last word" Proverbs 16:1

"Put God in charge of your work, then what you have planned will take place" Proverbs 16:3

"When God approves of your life, even enemies will end up shaking your hand" Proverbs 16:7

"Get wisdom- it's worth more than money; choose insight over income every time" Proverbs 16:16

These were some of my favorite verses from chapter 16 (the message translation). If you have some favorites, feel free to share! Happy Monday! :)

Thousands of 'Friends'

"My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth." 1 John 3:18 

In a time of social media, we are quick to call somebody a "friend." But of those thousands of friends and followers, how many would we inconvenience ourselves for? That could be taking them to the airport or listening to them vent after a long day at work. We show how much we care for people not only by what we say, but what we do. The Bible says that we are to recognize a tree by its fruit (Matthew 7:16-17). What is your fruit saying about you? Are your actions matching your declarations? 

(Original post: November 26) 

A Red Sea Experience

Exodus 14 is the story of Moses parting the Red Sea at the Lord's will. (Go back and read the deets, it's powerful). This story is an example of how God will put us in positions that give us the ability to truly see his glory. He will allow us to get to the Red Sea with enemy army on our tails; there's no escape but through prayer and faith in Him. Reflect on a time where only God was able to make that happen. What can you learn from the situation? Has your faith been strengthened since?

"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so you can endure" 1 Corinthians 10:13

(Original post: November 18)

The faithfulness of Christ

"His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23 

The prophet Jeremiah wrote the book of Lamentations as Jerusalem was being invaded by Nebuchadnezzar. Out of those horrific times came beautiful verses that are still used for comfort in time of trouble. What we experience can be used to encourage others. As you wonder how your grades will turn out, how the bills will get paid, if a relationship will work out; consider writing those thoughts down. As you continue to document, you will see God move in mighty ways. God has not forgotten about whatever you're facing. Endure and praise God all the way through.

"Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!" Psalm 100:2

(Original Post: November 15)

Our Light

"In my inner being I delight in God's law" Romans 7:22

So often people say "let your light shine" and the like. But what does that mean? As we draw closer to Christ and learn more about Him, we begin to change. We develop/ hone in on the fruits of the spirit. We're kinder, more patient, more giving... We begin to feel joy in doing the works of The Lord. But that only comes through a relationship and can't be perpetrated. Let's put the same effort in spiritual body that we do our external body. 

"To be spiritually minded is life and peace." Romans 8:6

(Original Post: November 14)

Preparation for the Famine

"He who tills his land will be satisfied with bread" Proverbs 12:11 

There are over 2000 verses in the Bible that talk about money and provision. This particular verse teaches that God gives us seasons of plenty to prepare to seasons of need. If there is a time where things are great financially, that should be the time that we save and give. If we do that, God will ensure that we're provided for. In turn, we will have a more patience to allow Him to move on our behalf.

"Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?" Matthew 6:25 

(Original Post: November 15)

Lessons from Moses

Exodus 3:7-15 is an exchange between Moses and God after Moses was told to free the Israelites. Moses was not the most eloquent and he felt inadequate. 

"Moses said to God, 'Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh" Exodus 3:11 

But Moses was chosen for a reason and was successful when he obeyed God. There may be times when you feel like you don't know enough Bible verses, don't have enough speaking experience, or whatever else, but God can use you. He has a plan specially tailored to your gifts and talents. Allow Him to use you and answer the call for your life! 

(Original Post: November 12)

Contentment

"Be content with such things as you have. For He Himself said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'" Hebrews 13:5

As believers, we are told that we should be content in every season. But how feasible is that? It seems as soon as contentment comes, so do the changes. I have come to the conclusion that once we truly are content, God sees it fit to stretch and mold us to be more like Him. Although we never "arrive" to a perfect place in Christ, know that if you're truly content, then you're growing in Christ. 

(Original Post: November 11)

Annoying people...

"When a man's ways please The Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him." Proverbs 16:7 

There have been times where it seems like things aren't going right and there's issue after issue...for no reason! That's so frustrating but this verse is the answer. It's not our place to say everything we may be thinking at the time. Instead, we should keep on the path that God set for us, knowing that we will encounter some opposition. Next time someone gets under your skin, pass the test and show the love of Christ.

"The Lord will fight for you, and you should hold your peace" Exodus 14:14

(Original post: November 8)

Wisdom & Knowledge

"For The Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding; he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk in integrity" Proverbs 2:6-7

It's so comforting to know that if we need direction, understanding, and wisdom, The Lord will give it to us. When He speaks to us, we gain understanding and a new perspective. How open are you to receiving wisdom and direction from The Lord? Have you sought Him for guidance in every decision?

"For wisdom will come into your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul" Proverbs 2:8

(Original post: November 7)

...For or Against

"Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters" Matthew 12:30 

The great thing about God is that he's not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33). Jesus spoke words from God that were so clear - we're either followers of Christ or not, because there's no in between. How do we know if we're truly following Him? Our fruit tells it all. (Matthew 12:33) Our fruit is our lifestyle, what we say, do, and even wear. If we've had an encounter with Christ, our lives should change, because we are new creatures in Him. 

"..put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness" Ephesians 4:22-24

(Original post: November 6)

Spiritual Check-up

"...be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." James 1:22(-24) 

How many people do we know who can quote partial Bible verses or even call out the name of Jesus in times of distress, but their lives are contrary to The Word? It seems that we are quick to recognize others shortcomings before our own. Chances are that we have probably had a fit of road rage, ignored a charitable opportunity, or even used foul language. All those things are contrary of The Word also! Daily, we should be praying for The Lord to make our heart like His and gradually change from our worldly ways. Just like we get bodily check-ups, we should do spiritual ones as well. Are you living according to God's word? Where can you improve? 

(Original Post: November 5)

Thoughts vs. Future

"For as he thinks in his heart, so is he" Proverbs 23:7

Our mind has the power to propel us forward or hold us back from our destiny. Proverbs 4:23 says that we are to guard our hearts. This applies not only to external factors, but also to internal things, like our thoughts. Remember to cast down thoughts that are negative and discouraging with positive affirmations and encouraging verses. What are your thoughts doing for your future? 

 "We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." 2 Corinthians 10:5

(Original post: November 4)

Habitual Thanks

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." James 1:17

Thanksgiving is generally the one day of the year that people stop and think about all the things that they are thankful for. As believers, we should stand out from the world and continuously thank God and show gratitude to those around us. This month, consider making a conscious, daily effort to tell The Lord all you're thankful for. It takes 21 days to create a habit (just in time for thanksgiving day!)

"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 1 Thessalonians 5:18

(Original post: November 1)

Waiting on God

"So The Lord must wait for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For The Lord is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for his help" Isaiah 30:18 

God is looking for someone who is waiting on Him to be good to them. God wants to be there for us to guide us in our journey, but we have to expect Him to move in our life. This means that no matter what disappointing things have happened in the past, we still expect God's grace and mercy. If we continually have a pessimistic attitude, we could limit our blessings. Eliminate the what ifs and doubts. Trust in Him. 

(Original post: October 31)

Godly Advice

"And your ears shall hear a word behind you saying, 'This is the way, walk in it,' when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left." Isaiah 30:21 

When making tough decisions we seek advice from friends, family members, and sometimes anyone who will listen! But who do we ultimately follow? The Lord hears our prayers and wants us to seek Him for wisdom and understanding. So He should be the first one we go to for advice, because he knows our path. If we feel the need to discuss it further, make sure that it's godly counsel because hopefully they'll serve as conformation of what God has already placed in your heart.

"Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety." Proverbs 11:14

(Original post: Octoer 30)