So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God.” Mark 10:18

 

When asked why people believe they will go to Heaven, many respond “because I try to be a good person”. Although being a good person by doing the right things is good, unfortunately it isn’t the way to Heaven.

 

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me”. John 14:6

 

The only way to Heaven is through belief that Jesus Christ died for your sins, rose to life again after three days and you ask Him to forgive your sins, come into your heart and save your soul. There is no other way. Nothing you can do, can achieve entry into God’s kingdom without accepting the Savior.

 

For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that no of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.  Ephesians 2:8-9

 

Your works wont’ get you into Heaven, but they should be prominent upon accepting Jesus Christ as Lord of your life. A true follower of Christ changes from within and over time becomes more “Christ-like”. This spiritual transformation might take months, even years, but it will truly happen when you put your faith in God and not in yourself. God bless!

 From the end of the earth I will cry to You, when my heart is overwhelmed; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. Psalm 61:2

 

When you think of rock, what comes to mind? For me, its something that is immovable and supportive, used to fill low spots, be the foundation for most construction projects and something people climb to get a better view.

 

For You have been a shelter for me, a strong tower from the enemy. Psalm 61:3

 

Today’s verse provides guidance when facing a difficulty. He is the one to call upon in times of trouble; He is the foundation of your life, always present, even in the lowest of times. David faced an enemy out to get him, to take his life when he was doing all the right things. He knew that God was there, protecting him and he sought shelter in Him.

 

For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways. Isaiah 55:9

 

God’s view of your life is from on high. He sees the intricate details of every circumstance you face and knows the outcome. What better way to travel through the adversities of life than to reach out to Him who knows the way and will lead you to the higher rock of security in Him. God bless!

 Do all things without complaining and disputing. Philippians 2:14

 

The message is short but to the point, do everything without complaining and disputing. It’s easy to find things to complain about: work, family, our neighbors…all of these things can be annoying and our mouths are quick to spew out our dislikes. Over the years of my life, I’ve met many people absorbed in negativity and complain constantly about how things are done. Being in ear shot of those people turns me off, including my desire to hear their toxic message.

 that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world. Philippians 2:15

As Christians, we must always take a different path. Negativity and disputing dampen the light that wants to shine from within. If we are labeled as a “complainer”, no one will listen and our spiritual purpose will be thwarted. There is a common term used for negative people, “negative Nancy”. I apologize if your name is Nancy….no intentions directed towards you.

 

Don’t be the negative Nancy no one wants to listen and be around. You eventually will find yourself isolated from others, and your message will dry up like a flower stem, broken from the main branch. Ask God to filter your thoughts and heart so you can remove the negativity and complaining and find positiveness, even in a negative environment. God bless!

 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits (2): Who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagles. Psalm 103:2&5

 

Have you ever invested yourself in something and received a nice reward? Maybe it was spending extra time at work and gained a larger pay check, or invested your money in a special stock and the returns were great. There are countless number of things you can invest your time and energy in with hopes of gaining some reward. The real question is, how long did that reward last?

 

I can tell you there is value when you invest your time and talents in the work of the Lord. God never misses a beat when it comes to rewarding those who seek after Him in every area of their life. God blesses the time spent investing in Him by providing wisdom, encouragement and hope for a better tomorrow. His blessings bring confidence to continue on in faith, and sustain you, even when the world seems to be against you.

 

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Matthew 6:33

 

If you truly want to invest in something eternal, pour yourself into God! Your reward will never come back empty and it will grow you, strengthen you and help sustain you in all seasons of life! God bless!

 For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. 1 John 3:11

 

This past Sunday, our Sunday school teacher brought a lesson on loving others. His encouragement, found in scriptures, provided a clear message that we are to love one another. Hate is the opposite of love and it has no place in the heart of God’s children (1 John 3:15). Pretty tough words, but the truth is, God is love and He expects His children to follow suit when it comes to loving others and forgiving those who sin against you.

 

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

 

We can provide lip service all day by saying we love others, but the truest measure of love is action. Putting others before ourselves is a good indicator that the love of Christ is in your heart (Philippians 2:3-4). Another element of love is forgiveness. It doesn’t take too long to brush with other humans before someone offends or hurts you. Your response to their negative behavior shows the depth of your love. If revenge or blocking them from your life is the response you choose, then you should really take a second look at your heart.

 

Loving others can be risky as you put yourself out there, but the rewards for remaining faithful and steadfast in the Lord has much greater rewards than what you receive (or don’t) from others. Start your day off with the mindset that no matter what happens, no matter how you are treated by others, love will prevail. Blessings!

 For all that is in the world-the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life-is not of the Father but is of the world. 1 John 2:17

 

We live in a world today where it’s easy to get caught up looking at the next best thing; a new car, new phone, even a new relationship. What you have right now might not be the most shiny, most technologically advanced or fulfilling your every desire, but it is what you have and most often what you think you need is no different than what you have.

 

Today’s scripture gives a stern warning to not get caught up in this trap. It’s truly not from God. Although, God wants you to have the essentials and supplies all your needs, you shouldn’t always be shopping for something better all the time. It consumes you mind and focus, leaving no room for what God has blessed you with in the first place.

 

And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever. 1 John 2:18

 

That new car will one day be old and need repair, that new phone will eventually die, and that relationship you think is better than what you have now will eventually loose its luster. Take your eyes off what consumes you the most and seek after God and His blessings will be enough to supply all your needs forever! God bless!

 And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men. Colossians 3:24

 

There will be times in life when discouragement sets in as a result of an environment that isn’t pleasing to you. Many either give up or turn to other forms of pleasure that are outside the will of God. No doubt, this leaves one in a vulnerable spot, acting upon how they “feel”, and the consequences can be disastrous.

 

As a child of God, you have to remember, your commitment is to God. As a representative of Him, He wants you to do your best in life, keeping your commitments and not let the external forces of evil influence your obligations, character and witness.

 

Knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. Colossians 3:24

 

You might be in a tough spot right now. Don’t let that divert you from what God calls you to do. You are living for Him and how you live will be judged. Those Heavenly rewards will be worth it when you hear God say, “Well done my good and faithful servant”. God bless!  

 And again, “Praise the Lord all you Gentiles, and let all the peoples praise Him.” Romans 15:11

 

Praise, it’s something we all enjoy receiving. Hard work or accomplishing a task oftentimes bring praise from fellow co-workers, family members or people within the realm of your influence. It shows that they are conscious of your efforts and praise brings encouragement to do better.

 

Today’s scripture is a good reminder to praise God for all He has done in your life. God is good and He loves His creation, you and me. He wants to bring everyone into His family, so He can provide love, hope and forgiveness in this fallen world. Praising God brings awareness of His goodness and you acknowledge specific things such as answered prayers, financial support or simply navigating through a difficult situation.

 

I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own. John 10:14

 

It shouldn’t take long to really find God’s blessings and goodness in your life. Make it a habit to praise Him throughout the day….it’s a continuation of prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17). As your praise coincides with your day, you’ll develop more confidence and trust in the Lord to help see you through every obstacle you encounter. Start right this moment thanking God for something and continue your act of worship and communication without ceasing! God bless!

 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

 

I just wrapped up two wonderful days off from work. This middle of the week reprieve was much needed as there are a lot of things going on at my work which require much of me. Feeling refreshed, I can now tackle what lies ahead for the remainder of this week and big event on Saturday.

 

Today’s scripture is a great reminder that in Christ you can always find rest in His presence and soak up the spiritual nourishment that only He can provide. Life has its challenges and things that drain every ounce of your being. But God! He knows what’s needed in each of His children and will replenish that vigor needed to sustain your faith and confidence to face another day.

 

Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:29

 

Whatever you are facing, give it over to God in faith and confidence that He will sustain you throughout the day and give you a refreshed spirit just by praying in the name of Jesus Christ. He’s got all you need to power up through the day and provide rest for your weary soul. Give Him your burden and He will lighten your load! God bless!

 “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.” John 15:16

 

In the South, college football is the prime focus of just about everyone who has their favorite team. Seriously, weddings, funerals and other special events are scheduled around college football games. Because I’m not originally from the South, I had a difficult decision who to root for. Since my oldest son went to Auburn, I side with them…which here lately we haven’t seen many victories.

 

There is One team you can always count on to win and that is God’s team. If you are a Christian, it’s important to understand He choose YOU to be on His winning team. He created you and gifted you with special talents and abilities to serve a role as a team player in the family of God. Your commitment to upholding your faith and testimony is paramount to keeping the scoreboard in His favor. The enemy (satan) has developed special plans to derail you from staying in the game, but rest assured he will be the looser. Don’t let him tackle your witness, your faith, your loyalty to the One who saved you!

 

And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Galatians 6:9

 

You are on the winning team friend, keep up the momentum and never quit, even when the odds seem to be in the enemy’s favor, you have victory in God! Blessings!

 Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving. Colossians 4:2

 

Two essential things make for a successful leader: communication and praise. Without communication, there is a road block between the leader and his followers, neither knows what the other is doing and expectations are not clear. Praise lets them know how much they are appreciated and that’s the motivation to continue to do well.

 

You could say the same is true for Christians. Communication through prayer is a privilege, and God desires we commune with Him on a continual basis. As we do, He directs our hearts toward His will and purpose and provides sound wisdom to navigate the challenges of life. Praising God for His goodness (and He is good in all things), shows your appreciation for Him and your relationship grows stronger through faith and trust in Him. Together these two essential factors make an unbreakable bond between God and His children.

 

How is your relationship with God? Maybe a little stagnant? Instead of giving God a wish list of things you desire, why not spend some time thanking Him for all He is doing in your life and be thankful for what you have. God longs to commune with you, give Him reason to hear your prayers through praise and acknowledgement of His goodness in your life! God bless!

 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6

 

It’s pretty easy these days to be anxious. The pressures of life, the demands placed on you at work, home and other responsibilities can be overwhelming, leaving you to wonder how you can possible do it all. The truth is, you really can’t do it all.

 

Today’s passage is an excellent reminder you have a Savior who wants to help you in your struggles to overcome those things that bring anxiety and stress in your life. When you pray and ask God for help, you bring forth what’s on your mind and He acknowledges it, opening the door for His help. The beautiful thing about asking for God’s help, is to see His hand working in the moment. He may not handle it the way you would, but trust me, He is working on your behalf. All He wants to provide you is peace at heart (Philippians 4:7).

 

What’s troubling your heart today? Come to the Father with your request and He will work in your specific situation, every time! God loves you and wants to provide you His best. Trust in His ways and means to bring resolution to your call for help! God bless!

 For I desire mercy and not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings. Hosea 6:6

 

Every year my mother would send me a card on special days though out the year, such as Father’s Day, my birthday, and the day I was adopted into my family. She did this out of love and not obligation or ritual. Love was her motivation and each card was a reminder of her deep love for me.

 

We all have certain rituals and traditions that we closely follow. One happens every Sunday for most people, church attendance. The deeper question to ask yourself is why? Do you do attend church out of obligation or because of your love for the Lord? Today’s passage sheds some light on the subject and should be used to cross check your true intentions.

 

Jesus said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” Matthew 22:37

 

God wants your love, and your loyalty to Him. He wants to be first place in your life, not out of obligation, but because you love Him and desire His love! This bond between you and God isn’t something to be taken lightly; He saved you by grace through the shed blood of His Son, Jesus Christ. Your security in eternal Heaven is linked by God’s love. Check your heart and make sure it’s motivated by love and not obligation. God bless!

 

 We also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Romans 5:3-4

 

Years ago I purchased my home in a brand new subdivision. Literally it was just my home and one other. As time went on, new homes were being built. I recall early morning hours being awakened by the sounds of power saws and hammers as they constructed houses all around me. It only took a few short years and the entire area was filled with homes, and boy did they sell like hotcakes. I was so glad when the construction projects were completed, because all those construction noises were quite annoying.

 

As a child of God, you might wonder if God is doing something in your life. Tribulations and difficulties are often a good sign He is working your life. He uses these annoying things to build your character such as perseverance. When you want to cave to the pressures, God calls you to keep on moving forward in faith.

 

I know it might be difficult to glory in tribulations, but that’s a sure sign God is working in your life to built a better, more faithful YOU! Don’t discredit the work He is doing, it’s for your own good. Keep the faith, stay in continual prayer and watch God’s construction project develop something beautiful in your life! God bless!

 

 

 Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfil my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord of one mind. Philippians 2:1-2

 

A battle is never fought with only 1 person, it takes more than 1 to build a house, it takes a body of people to govern a country. Then why do we as children of God expect to gain anything from this world by going at it alone? The necessity of being united in mind, spirit and body is key to successfully completing God’s call to reach the world with His eternal hope of salvation.

 

The church needs its members to work together in unison and not bash or tear down others. Judging fellow believers only weakens relationships and separates the strength of its congregation. Don’t be one of those people who allows judgement to rein in your heart. Come together to build each other up, help one another through prayer and action and keep the faith going forward as the church reaches out to a lost and dying world.

 

Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:12

 

There is a spiritual battle going on outside the church walls and its members need to gear up as one body to rescue the lost and impact the community in a positive way. It will never happen with members who isolate themselves and take no part in the work of the Lord. Consider your talents and abilities and how they can be applied to the workings of your church and be part of the strand that holds together the church family. God bless!  

 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see you good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 4:16

 

At night, our bedroom if dark, except for one night light in the bathroom. Once the lights are turned off, it’s pretty much complete darkness, but as time passes, that little night light seems to shine brighter and eventually illuminates our bedroom so we can see if we need to get up at night.

 

If you are a child of God, can you say that your life shines the light of Christ to those around you? Your spiritual connection to God provides enough power (strength) to reflect His image to those outside the faith.  The promptings of the Holy Spirit should be taken seriously, as God works His plans to save mankind through His children. That’s you and me! Without the light of Christ shining from His children, how will the people living in darkness ever see their way to the Savior?

 

Take time today to reflect upon the influence you have over those around you. Do they even know your association with God? If you have areas of your life that don’t quite reflect His spirit, ask God to help transform your mind and heart so you’ll be able to provide a lighted pathway to God for those within the realm of your influence. God will bless you for your obedience.

 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me; You will stretch out Your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and Your right hand will save me. Psalm 138:7

 

It seems the days of a simple, easy going life are no longer. Every day presents its challenges and struggles. The people we work with, the people we encounter throughout the day’s journey, even some of those we live with can make life difficult (and no I’m not talking about my wife!). Lord knows I’ve had my struggles this year and at times I have felt completely defeated, even on the days I work hardest to achieve success.

 

The one thing I do every day is pray. Within 5 minutes of exiting my bed, I get down on my knees and pray about the day. I pray for the people I will be around, the circumstances I’ll face and ask God to help me navigate through the day’s challenges. Although the day might be full of challenges, God is always faithful to cover me with His hand of protection and sustain me, when others would simply raise the white flag of surrender.

 

Your life is no different. God loves you and wants to help you throughout each day. Give Him 5 minutes of your time in prayer and I promise you, He will show up and sustain you through it all. Your enemy, satan, does His best to discourage and tries to take your focus off God. When discouraging things come your way, turn to Him in prayer for revival, He will sustain you! Start today in prayer and never lose sight of God’s presence in your life, each minute of the day! God bless!

 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

 

Have you ever heard someone say, “that’s impossible” or “that won’t work”. That person has given up all hope and faith that something could actually happen; it’s outside the realm of their understanding. Maybe you are facing a grim situation that appears to have no hope, leaving you without much faith. Let me remind you of today’s passage. I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me.

 

This world in which we live has its challenges and everything that happens, whether to you or someone else is always under God’s control. He has either allowed it to happen or He authored the circumstances Himself. Either way, He knows the details, right down to the final outcome. Your faith and trust in Him is the key to successfully navigating through the difficulty. You can present your desire and wishes for a specific outcome, but the ultimate answer resides in His will and purpose.

 

No matter what challenges you face, God is aware of your needs and desires and already has a planned outcome. What seems impossible and outside the realm of your understanding is just the very thing that will encourage you to believe HE can do all things in and through your life with faith in Him. The things which are impossible with men and possible with God. Luke 18:27

 He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3

 

September 11, 2001 was a day of shock and deep mourning for the loss of so many innocent lives. Nothing, in the history of our country, impacted so many lives than 9/11. What happened on that dreadful day brought change to this country. On September 12, 2001, thousands attended church services across the country, people flew the American flag with pride, those in public service were our heroes and together people prayed for this country’s healing.

 

As I look over the past 21 years since 9/11, I’ve seen this country literally unravel at the seams. Where has the unity gone? Where has the pride in America and its flag gone? Who is our hero now? I believe God is shaking His head in disbelief and what a shame we’ve allowed the unity to rip apart.

 

We don’t’ need another 9/11 to change America. We need Christians to come together and pray for this country and its leadership. Our country is hurting, the citizens are divided and our blessings have fallen away and given over to fruitless deeds of darkness. Prayer and unity are the only way this country will truly experience the healing of God. It all starts with YOU.

 

If you truly care about this great nation, pray and ask others to join you in prayer. Seek after the will of God for your life so you can join His plan to save mankind from themselves. Together we can change the course of this nation, one prayer, one person, one nation under God! God bless!  

 

 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.        John 3:16

 

If there was ever one verse in the bible that sums up God’s love for you, it’s John 3:16. You are God’s creation. He created you in His image (Genesis 1:27). As your creator, you belong to Him, but the real question is does He belong to you?

 

God gives each of His creation “free will”. He leaves it up to you to decide if you will receive His free gift of eternal life or chose to reject Him and spend eternity totally separated from His presence. If you are wise, you’ll chose to receive Him into your life. Rejecting God is like rejecting your parents who brought you into this world and cared for you. Can you imagine the heartbreak He feels when you chose not to accept His love?

 

For if we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s. Romans 14:8

 

One day you will leave this world and spend eternity in one location. I can tell you experiencing the eternal joy, peace and His love will be worth it, if you chose to receive Him. Receive Him today, so you can experience His presence in your life right now. Pray a simple prayer like this: “Dear God, I know I am a sinner, and I believe that you sent your Son, Jesus Christ, to make payment for my sin. I ask for your forgiveness of my sins as I believe in Jesus Christ and receive Him today and your eternal love. Thank you for saving me!” God bless!  

 And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on water to go to Jesus. Matthew 14:29

 

We often think of life’s difficulties as a bad thing, but so often we miss sight of their benefit for spiritual and personal growth. If you think about it, a surfer can’t succeed unless there are turbulent waves he can ride. Those big waves can seem overwhelming, yet faith in one’s ability to stay steady on that board and the freedom to glide across the water gives him the motivation to go out there and perform his best.

 

Today’s passage comes out of the story of Jesus walking on the water and Peter longs to do the same (Matthew 14:22-33). Peter stepped out of the boat, in faith, and began walking on the water; yet he was distracted by the strong waves, and his faith weakened and he sunk until Jesus came to the rescue.

 

As Christians, we must learn to secure our faith in Jesus to step out of the boat of safety and security to walk on the turbulent waters that we encounter in life. Jesus is standing on those waves, welcoming us to step out in faith and see it grow stronger with each passing event. Each storm grows character and trust in the Lord, readying you for the next storm.

 

Whatever you face in life, keep your faith strong so you won’t sink. Jesus has you covered as you walk towards Him, keeping eyes fixed on His. Your faith and trust will grow stronger each time, eventually leaving you with the confidence to walk through life’s adversities. God bless!

 Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6

 

As a child of God, every day matters! Your calling into the family of God didn’t just happen by chance, God sought after you (John 15:16) and it came with a purpose and plan.  How committed to that life determines the blessings you’ll receive on Judgement Day (2 Corinthians 5:10).

 

Everything in your life matters! From how you act in public and when no one is looking (God is always looking), to your thoughts and words spoken, they all matter and how you live out your life should have the motivation to please the Lord. As a child of God, the reality is this is not your home and everything of the world is 100% opposite of God’s ways. The struggle is real to keep it Christ centered, but with God, all things are possible!

 

Do you know the plan God has for your life? You are living it each day! Your life matters. Keep God real in your everyday life and be open to His prompting to act, pray, and be a light in this dark world. God bless!

 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. 1 Corinthians 9:24

 

Have you ever gave up on something, or someone? Quitting has become quite common these days; when things don’t go the way we like or feeling uncomfortable, the choice to quit removes you from that situation, but at what cost?

 

We are all running this race called life. Whether you realize it or not, people depend on you to keep up the pace, stay committed to your obligations, so you can finish the race well. Yes, times wont be easy, and it might cost you financially and emotionally, but that’s part of life. When you vacate your position on the track, you leave a void that no one can replace, and the guilt of quitting will eventually catch up to you.

 

But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded. 2 Chronicles 15:7

 

Maybe you are on your way out of a relationship or some obligation. Take time to really think over what you’ll gain by this short-term decision and the long-term effects it will cause for others. God never said life would be easy, but that He would go with you and help you in the tough times.

 

He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6.

 But He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind Me, satan! You are an offense to Me, for you are not mindful of the things God, but the things of men.” Matthew 16:23

 

In today’s passage, Peter, one of Jesus disciples, questions Jesus words when He informs them that He must suffer and die to make payment for mankind’s sins. Jesus responded by telling satan to get behind him, basically telling Peter his intentions were not spirit driven. Jesus had a mission to accomplish and He needed no words of discouragement from the task at hand.

 

The devil is good at using people we know, trust, even our closest loved ones to work against us. How can you keep yourself from being influenced by satan through people in your life? By maintaining a constant state of prayer and focus on God! Thankfully God gives us His Holy Spirit, who resides in each child of God, to censor misinformation. When something outside God’s will is presented, His Spirit sends a warning signal to use caution when engaging in conversation that is not from above. Staying in tune with the Spirit is key to successfully staying on the path of righteousness and not being swayed in the wrong direction.  

 

Before you even walk out the door today, ask God to guide you throughout the day, giving you warning to the enemy’s lies and deceit. Listen for God’s voice of reasoning and ask Him to guide you in the way of truth. He will do it and bless your commitment to trust Him and not the things of men. God bless!

 endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:3

 

I recently read a news article that one of my favorite music duals is no longer performing together as differing political views divided them. I thought to myself, what a waste of wonderful music talent as a group. They really had it together and produced some awesome music.

 

Unfortunately, in today’s world, this seems to be the norm. Differing views separate office staff, music groups, family members, maybe even those in your own household. All those years of working together to build a productive workforce, music entertainment and families, gone to the wayside and are no longer. How can we bring back unity?

 

Walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love. Ephesians 4:1-2

 

The above passage explains what’s necessary to maintain unity.

 

Lowliness and gentleness equate to “humbleness”; putting aside your pride and thoughts that your way is the only way moving forward. Discussions over differing views should never be done in anger, but with gentleness. Words can never be taken back, so be cautious in how you speak.

 

Longsuffering; it takes work to keep relationships together. Not everyone will agree on the same things and others might offend you, but never give up on the bond you developed.

 

Bearing with one another in love; the one true ingredient to unity is love. “And above all things have fervent love for one another, for love will cover a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8 Unity will never survive without love. It might be hard to love those who think opposite of you, but God calls His children to love, as He is love, and those outside the faith need to see that love if unity will ever continue. God bless!

 And Jacob gave Esau bread and stew of lentils; then he ate and drank, arose and went his way. Thus Esau despised his birthright. Genesis 25:34

 

In this brief encounter, Genesis 25:29-34, Jacob had cooked up some delicious smelling soup and Esau had just come in from the field and was hungry. In his weakness he begged his brother for some soup and Jacob offered but not unless Esau gave up his birthright. In his moment of weakness, Esau agreed. A quick and poor decision, which affected him for the rest of his life.

 

Dr. Charles Stanley encourages believers to use the term H.A.L.T. When you are hungry, angry, lonely and tired, those are times when you are at your weakest state and satan often takes advantage of the situation, enticing you to sin and make poor choices. Think over the past week, when you were in one of those states, how did you respond? Anger usually prompts the worst in us and things can be said and done in anger that leave a negative mark on your character and image that others hold over you.

 

Life has its challenging moments and when those times of HALT show up on your radar, it truly is time to halt, pray and ask God to lead you through that moment of your weakened state so you can stay committed to God and sustain your Christlike character. God bless!

 Come to Me, and all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

 

We are about to wrap up our week of a business trip. The long drive down here was very tiring and the last thing I wanted to do was carry all of this luggage up to our room. After I checked in to the hotel, there was a bellhop who offered to take our luggage up to our room. What a welcomed relief!

 

God offers a similar service to His children. He knows this world can be a struggle to navigate and He wants to lighten the load of your burdens. He does this in two ways:

 

And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

 

Confidence in conflict! Although the burden is heavy, you can be assured that He has a purpose in it! And no matter how chaotic and stressful it is, its meant to work out for your best. No matter what you are facing, have the confidence to know that God is up to something beneficial.

 

I will not leave you as orphans, I will come to you. John 14:18

 

Help to the rescue! You can be assured that when the dark clouds of tribulations and trials come, God will be right there with you! He promised never to leave you to carry the burden’s weight on our own. You might not always see the physical workings of God, but you can trust Him and know He is doing His part to aid in your journey through life. God bless!