When we encounter an issue or trial, it causes us to pray
about our situation. During this time of dialogue, we increase our unity with
the Lord. We also serve as a living testimony to our friends and family. Our
faith in God’s faithfulness proves to them that we consider the trail simply as
a light and momentary inconvenience (2 Corinthians 4:17), because
it does not devastate us as it would them. This causes them to question how
they too can share in our faith in Christ.
Christ in us draws them to Himself through the witness of
our life. No one can see God unless they are Born Again. This occurs
by His Spirit through repentance of our sin and belief in the saving work of
Christ on the Cross (John 3:3). All Born Again Believers walk
away from the practice of sin (1 John 3:9). Our salvation rebirths our
spirit but also transforms our heart. We pass from death to life and we
selflessly love the family of God in word and deed (1 John
3:14, 18).
God invests in us all the power of His Godhead,
because Christ actually dwells in us by His Spirit. We do not have to fear
people, because our warfare is against wickedness in heavenly places (Ephesians
6:12). Christ gives us authority over powers and principalities (Ephesians
1:21), because of His work on Calvary’s cross (Colossians
2:15). We fear God, with the awe and respect due His name (Proverbs
1:7); however, we have no more fear of what man can do to us (Hebrews
13:6), or of the devil and his demons (James
4:7).
The Lord, in whom we now believe, forgives and sanctifies
us once and for all on the day we repent and surrender our life to Him. He
loved us first and drew us to Himself. Now He acts as our advocate and
intercedes on our behalf before our Father (1 John 1:9, 2:1, 4:19). We are
no longer sinners, but Saints in His eyes. He calls us to bring the gospel to
and care for the destitute, hungry and imprisoned people who do not yet know
Him (Matthew 25:35-36). In doing this, we prove our love to Him (Mark
12:30-31).
Prayer:
Father God, You always lift up everyone who falls and is
discouraged and depressed. We look to You for our deliverance, which You always
bring right on time. You open Your hand and satisfy our longing. You are near
to everyone who calls on Your name with an honest heart. You place Your desires
in the hearts of those who fear You, and You preserve everyone who loves You (Psalm
145:14-18).
Thought for the Day:
We make Christ the Lord on the throne of our heart and we
are alert to give a gentle and reverent testimony of the hope He gives us. - 1
Peter 3:15