What
type of an example are we? Are we an illustration of an authentic Believer, a
carnal Christian, or a person still steeped in sin (1 John 1:8)? Do we pattern
our life after Jesus and seek His Kingdom first, or are we wrapped up in our
own goals and desires? (1 Thessalonians 1:7; Hebrews 10:26)
If
we ask Him to, God will create a pure and holy heart in us, and draw us into a
more intimate union with Him. He will teach us how to walk in His Spirit and how
not to fulfill the passions of our carnal nature (Psalm 51:10; Galatians
5:15-25).
As
we obey our Heavenly Father, we avoid all of the trials of our own-making
caused by our choices outside of His will for us. If we walk in the Spirit, He
will keep us in the center of God's perfect plans (Ephesians 2:10), and we come
to appreciate His presence within us.
As
authentic Believers, we are called by God to live as an example of holiness and
heavenly-minded pursuits. Paul guides us to live as an illustration of Godly
conduct in thought, word, emotions, deeds, love, faith and purity (1 Timothy
4:12).
He
also challenges us, even as we see spiritual maturity in our character and
habits, to continue to mindfully engage in studying God's Word, encouraging
fellow Saints, and boldly proclaiming what Jesus did and is still doing for us
(1 Timothy 4:13-15).
We
live by faith in what we cannot see (Hebrews 6:1); and we do not rely on our
own works (Ephesians 2:8-9). We trust the Trinity within us, and we focus on
doing only the will of God (Ephesians 2:8-10). We look forward to our rewards
in Heaven (Ephesians 2:7), rather than storing up earthly treasures (Luke
12:33).
When
we wake up, we want Satan to quake in His boots, because He knows authentic
Believers are a united army against his kingdom. We purpose in our heart, all day
long, to focus on God first and only; then He will lead us to make a difference
in our world (Matthew 5:14, 6:33).
Prayer:
Father
God, we do not want to live for our self, pursuing our dreams, goals and plans.
As pilgrims, sojourners and aliens on this earth, we know our life here is temporary
and transitory. We want to focus on Your will and Kingdom instead (1 Peter
2:11; Hebrews 11:13). Using human reasoning and wisdom thwarts Your plans for
us, so we ask for daily wisdom from above to guide our steps.
We
know that moths and rust will destroy our earthly treasures, and we cannot take
them with us into eternity; however, as You remind us to store up treasures in
heaven, they will bless us forever (Mathew 6:19-20). Your steadfast love is
more wonderful than words can express, and we appreciate Your peace and joy now
and always.
Thought
for the Day:
As
we obey the Lord, and follow His plans for us to further His Kingdom, we live
as benevolent and compassionate Saints, ready to share what we have with those
in need, and storing up for our self a secure foundation for eternity, so we
can obtain that which is actually our true life. - 1 Timothy 6:18-19
