Fairness and honesty are rooted in God’s character and ought to be emulated by His people everyday. Our dealings with others should be morally right and generous, especially to the poor and down-trodden among us.
Fairness and honesty are rooted in God’s character and ought to be emulated by His people everyday. Our dealings with others should be morally right and generous, especially to the poor and down-trodden among us.
Bad things come to the righteous…we are not immune from sickness, suffering, and lawless acts, for we live in a broken world. But we do need to always remember – that despite how dark and miserable things may be…the dawn will bring with it new wisdom and enlightenment for our weary souls.
To stand in awe of the Lord and all His glory is motivation enough to live a godly life before Him. To find that inexpressible joy and comfort within His Word is once more motivation to follow Him.
The Lord is calling us to a higher place… a deeper place with Him. He’s tired of us playing Church and acting so spiritual one day a week, only to behave badly the other six. He’s wanting Christians to take a stand around the world, and to boldly proclaim His Name. The Lord wants only the very best for us, but until we get rid of our arrogance and return to the God of our Fathers, our country… our world, will continue down this path of destruction.
Where are your riches stored up? Are all your desires and affections towards the things of the world, or is your heart right before God…passionately desiring Him first and foremost in your life? Your heart lies where your treasure is.
Our real reward awaits us in heaven… and whatever your concept of heaven is, it will far exceed what you can ever imagine. Jesus spoke about earthly wealth as a way to help the poor among us and in doing so providing ourselves with heavenly riches. As He told the rich young ruler…”If you wish to be truly obedient, Go, Sell everything, and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven.”
Earthly wealth is fleeting and temporary…it can be wasted and squandered away in the blink of an eye. All our cherished riches here will eventually wear out, decay, break down, or be stolen from us…leaving us with nothing to show for it.
When was the last time you sat in quiet contemplation of everything the Lord has done for you?…Gently reflecting on, and thanking Him, for the many blessings He’s bestowed in your life. Too often, we take for granted just how far He’s brought us… until we stop and take the time to remember, and then thank Him.
If someone makes a rude comment because you’re a Christian…if they belittle or demean you for your stand for Christ – count yourself blessed! It demonstrates that the hand of God is present and involved in your life with a divine purpose. It shows that the Holy Spirit is actively dwelling within you, imparting glory…And in the eyes of God, you are honored.
Paul did not count the fleeting, temporary pain of standing up for the Gospel anything to be even considered, in sight of the future splendor Heaven and eternal life held. Rather, he rejoiced in the suffering, knowing he would soon be overjoyed by the glory.