Deuces

"And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?" Matthew 6:27 

Have you ever found yourself worried and anxious about something, only to find out later that everything worked out better than you ever imagined? I have. Then I'm annoyed and wondering why I wasted energy on trivial matters, instead of trusting, wholeheartedly that God would work it out. Many times we know the scriptures in our minds but our hearts and emotions have a hard time grasping these simple truths. So relax, everything will work out as it should. Chuck the deuces to stress, anxiety, and worry and live a life free in Christ. 

"Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad." Proverbs 12:25

Boldness

"The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion." Proverbs 28:1 

The definition of righteousness is the state of moral perfection required by God to enter Heaven. While it is true that we cannot become righteous due to our own works, righteousness is obtained through our acknowledgement and acceptance of the acts of Jesus Christ. So believers have the power to be as bold as lions. They can expect to hear from God and reap the benefits of obeying him. What do you need to be bold about today? 

"So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most." Hebrews 4:16

Defending the Faith

"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15 

Often times, I've heard this verse referred to as evidence that we need to know the word of God in a personal way. I want to take it a step further and say that we should also be studying the word for a deep understanding, so we're not swayed by false teaching, and ultimately, so we can be effective disciples. Now, the majority of the people around me ascribe to other world religions. In turn, I find it increasingly important to know what I believe and why. So if I'm asked why I'm a Christian, I have a sound answer. If you're interested in apologetics (defending the faith), let me know and I'll share some resources with you. Happy Thursday! 

"I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." Psalm 119:11

Restored

"Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him." Colossians 3:10 

There may be times that you feel worn down, weary, frustrated, or unloved. Thank God that you serve a God of restoration. A God who can restore your zeal to do the mundane things of life. He will grace you with patience and understanding in every season. Reach out to Him, and let him know that you need his presence daily. Allow Him to fill you up when you're drained. Happy Wednesday! 

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

Honoring God

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31 

Everything you do has the potential to bring honor to The Lord. The small decisions that you make can spark an interest from others. For example, if your demeanor is constantly joyous and smiley, people may ask you how you're so happy everyday. That's the perfect opportunity to share what God has done in your life. Same goes for clothing choice, food preferences, word selection - everything. This week, make a conscious effort to consult God about the little things to make sure you're bringing glory to him and not yourself. Happy Monday! :) 

"For everything comes from him and exists by his power and is intended for his glory. All glory to him forever!" Romans 11:36

Pass the Test

"The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure." 1 Corinthians 10:13 

Don't you just love how plainly the New Living Translation is written? Everyone has things that they're dealing with and no temptation is harder or easier to pass than another. As you are renewing our minds and changing your hearts to be more like Christ, the tests will come harder than ever. As soon as you claim contentment, peace, joy, patience, etc. you will be tested in those areas. Be prepared. Put on the whole armor of God daily, and don't allow the trials and frustration to keep you bound and steal your joy, because that's what the enemy wants. Can I get an amen? :) Happy FRIDAY!