Living In An Upside Down World Part 2

Whenever any scene or situation presents itself on our life’s canvas we must seek God’s direction to properly apply and paint the intended strokes. Having the proper attitude about God is necessary to deal with any present injustices. Persecution and misunderstanding will attempt to take a dominant position to etch insecurity and doubt onto the forefront of your life canvas.  Yielding subdued hues and shades of gray to subliminally overshadow the main theme. But as you always keep in mind that God knows you.  His Light will shine forth brightly  in the midst, even when darkness tries to impose itself upon you.

Yield not to temptation

We cannot predict the future precisely. However, we can always look to God for direction.  At any given moment He can reveal to us whatever we need to know and  do to accomplish His will within our lives.  However, we must learn to  keep focused,  humble ourselves, pray, trust  and put our faith in God. He is  our Creator and Maker who knows us and will watch over and protect us living in and upside down world.

God allows both good and bad times for all of us. “He is not a respecter of persons.” But he always has our best interest at heart.   We must learn to consistently lean and put our faith and trust in Him. We are to “Walk by Faith!”  In order to not be pulled into whatever is suddenly hurled into your direction even though intended to snarl, derail, discredit our credibility or entrap us, our focus must always be upon HIM! He will direct us through, over it or around it. Better yet, He will remove it when necessary or even demolish it.  We must learn how not to allow insults, injustices or any storm or seasonal moment in time define the totality of our existence.

Spending time with God in His Word is important

When you spend time in His presence you can abide under the shadow of The Almighty because you know that He knows and this is what ultimately truly matters. Ecclesiastes tells us that, “There is something else meaningless that occurs on earth; righteous men who get what the wicked deserve, and wicked men who get what the righteous deserve.” The point that I am trying to make is that life has a much deeper meaning than what man sees. Many seek first as a top priority to be affirmed and followed and being recognized in the eyes of man. Momentarily this may satisfy an inner longing, life on this side of heaven is short, there really is a much deeper meaning to life.

If all the wisdom, prestige or power that the world has to offer were available it would be but a minute particle in regards to the infinite wisdom and power of the Lord. Perhaps this is why Jesus Christ made Himself of no reputation? Yes we are in the world but; ” it is Him we live and move and have our being.” Acts 18.  Although often unrecognized or whenever accepted by the masses Christ Jesus did not deter from His life purpose. He remained faithful and committed to the will of His Father in and often, cruel, harsh upside down world.

“Walk in the Light!”

God sees and knows it all. It is not merely how things appear or seem. We all will have to stand before an all knowing all wise omniscient God who knows where our hearts and minds are as well as our intentions. Man can do no more than God allows… Know the Lord and His Word so you are not towed along with the “false teaching” of anyone. Ephesians says “have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything is exposed to the Light becomes visible, for the Light makes everything visible…”

God tells us to live as children of the Light. When you are truly walking in the Light you know without doubt that whatever darkness tries to overshadow your life’s canvas, that your Creator, your maker, our Heavenly Father is absolutely aware. In all things trust God for in His time He will always make a way for us when we are committed to His will. You can surely trust Him to keep you right side up, living in and upside down world.

Notice how most animals walk on all fours. God Created us as His children to walk uprightly. Our hands should be readily available to reach up and Praise Him! It is important to always be aware of what is going on about us. To be cognizant of our environment wherever we are.  We do not want to live in denial, neither is it healthy.  We are forever growing as long as God has us on this side of Heaven. Keep in mind, Jesus did not come to depress nor oppress us,  but to correct and enlighten us to a better way of life.  Life without God is futile and meaningless.

Spiritual food

God’s Word is our life manual and the most incredible  essential intrinsic tool to help us successfully navigate through life. It is our marvelous spiritual food. It is also our spiritual sword and it cuts both ways when used properly. It cuts, carves, enhances, molds and shapes  us  like nothing else. We can find hope in the midst of sorrow, joy in the midst of sadness, comfort in the midst of pain, encouragement in the midst of persecution and peace within our awesome God. This remains true within the midst of this upside down world!

Grief – (Grieving Is Emotionally Painful) Part 2

 

GOD’S JOY IS AVAILABLE!

There is always “HOPE” in the Lord! For our Lord is available 24/7 wherever you may be. God’s joy is not contingent upon the approval of others or on our situation. God is omnipotent therefore He is more than able. It is written: “Draw nigh to GOD and HE will draw nigh to you!”  James 4 We can always and forever  depend upon God and His Word. “And you shall know the TRUTH and the TRUTH shall set you FREE!” John 8 Always remember; GOD IS THE “SPIRIT OF TRUTH!”

 

You can experience GOD’S  JOY!

 

Joy runs deep when you know that God is your source of strength. Joy is a by product of focusing on God which will or can give you a wonderful peaceful sense of well-being. When you spend time daily in prayer, praising and studying God’s Word I guarantee you, you will experience great joy! It will give you a different perspective in your time of need.

 

You can overcome any adversity

The Apostle Paul endured many adversities. Yet he chose to use those adversities to develop a deeper relationship with the Lord. Paul did not seek to be elevated by a title although he had every right to pull rank on the religious hierarchy. God’s grace was fully sufficient for Paul. Paul grasped something that few people ever really understand or attain. Paul delighted and found joy in the Lord regardless of what was going on about him. From an outward appearance this was not always apparent to his onlookers. Paul and Silas together sang and prayed so fervently that even the doors to prison were opened for them. This is one of the many examples of the difference God makes when we invite HIM into our lives.

 

We serve an Omnipresent Almighty GOD!

God’s presence and comfort is near and dear. God is never far from any of us. Believing, knowing and actually applying God’s Word will transform your mind to think spiritually when faced with grief or any trial or situation that comes into your life.   Now this does not mean being in denial; quite the contrary. Knowing the Truth is so very powerful. It increases your discernment!

 

Man looks on the outside. God looks at the heart. According to God’s Word spiritual things can not be understood by the natural or carnal man. There are those who think so carnally you have to proceed with caution. There is a reason why the Word says; “lay your hands on no man suddenly…” There is a spiritual transference when laying on hands. Be careful who you let lay hands on you. Anger begats anger & Peace begats peace. The Laying on of hands is NOT for show. The power of suggestion is real and some will respond simply because they are easily led.

 

It is so very important to KNOW GOD & HIS WORD for yourself! Seeking the Truth brings Light into our lives. Quickly release the things that are not true. This also allows less room for any darkness to penetrate the Spiritual Armor. Allow God’s Light to shine in your heart, mind and soul in the midst of grief.  Know that the The Kingdom of God resides within the committed believer. Luke 17  Therefore regularly take some time to;  “Be still and know!”  Let God direct and comfort you. His Holy Spirit is the Awesome Comforter. God’s Word will be a Light unto your path in every situation. Through Christ Jesus we have been blessed with the opportunity to overcome life as we live to please God.

 

It is written;

God’s Word says; “Now this I say, brethren that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does corruption inherit incorruption. Behold, I tell you a mystery: we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible has out on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: Death is swallowed up in victory…” Revelation 15: 50-55.

 

CHRIST JESUS conquered life, sin, death and the grave!

Yes we all will experience grief to some extent within our lifetime.  But remember when a believer dies he/she goes to Heaven. As a believer although it is an enemy, death is not to be feared. Nor is it  something anyone should choose as an option.  Our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus conquered life, sin, death, and the grave for us.  He sacrificed His life and atoned for the sins of the world.  We are to reach to HIM! We have been given the gift of “Eternal Life.”   We who truly believe and have  accepted Jesus into our hearts have been blessed.  We will  transition this  earth to live with God in Heaven throughout eternity.  Romans 8 emphatically teaches us, there is absolutely nothing that can separate us from the love of God, not even death. God is awesome!

 

We will never fully understand many things. There are daily many world wide tragedies about us. God said that before the end of time many will be deceived and believe a lie. That many would take pleasure in unrighteousness.

 

The Perilous Days are upon  us

In these “Latter Days” the Scriptures are being fulfilled. Many all throughout the world are grieving the loss of love ones daily.  Due to the Coronavirus and other pestilences and plagues,  death, diseases, suicide, violence, crime, terrorist attacks, war, hurricanes, floods, fierce monsoon rains and furious tsunamis. Millions have died.

 

Just imagine what the original flood was like. God is speaking. WE all must ge better at listening.  Keep in mind we know through God’s Word that the end of time as we know it will not be via water. It will be by fire!

 

God sets the rainbow in the sky as a reminder of His promise. He reminds us by this that He will not destroy the world again with a flood. We also know that God is fully aware of everything that ever happens everywhere in the world. We serve a miracle working God!  He is more than able. God has promised that He would always be with us.

 

Knowing and focusing on God during your grief or any other difficult situation you may be going through will result favorably. It may not always be easy for you. But, by exercising self-control and reaching out to God it is possible. This does not mean you will not be hurt, saddened, cry or feel abandoned. It is how you feel that let’s you know you are alive.  You may even  choose to walk away from God. But please know: “God will never forsake us!”  So come what may; hold on to Him.

 

Wherever we are we can always reach out to God 

God already knows our hearts.  He is well acquainted with grief. Therefore, daily begin to partake in His spiritual fruit. The fruit of God’s Spirit are accessible. Self control will help you not to be controlled by your thinking, despair, others  or feelings. God’s Word tells us we can even be angry yet not sin. We must yearn to yield to God’s way of reacting and responding. One never knows what a day may bring. But we do know that GOD is OMNIPRESENT! We can always and forever reach out to HIM anywhere 24/7! It is in HIM lone can we always & forever find true “Security & Significance!”

 

Every Word of God is true. One must only learn how to use and properly implement it and  apply it wisely.  It is our spiritual sword that is sharper than a two edged sowrd. It cuts both ways. Wisdom comes from God.

 

I thank & Praise the Lord that we have the victory even in death. How is that? Remember; Christ Jesus has overcome death and the grave. He atoned for the sins of the world upon the cross. He was crucified, died and was buried. Then He miraculously rose with all power!

 

Begin thinking and looking at life  from a spiritual perspective. God’s children are the “apple of His eye.” God loved us so much that He allowed His only begotten Son to die for us. God is so much more than our little finite minds can imagine. God wants to walk with you through this valley of the shadow of death. He always wants us to be victorious when we are walking in TRUTH!

 

We serve an Omniscient  Almighty GOD

Nothing ever happens in any of our lives and in the world that gets by God. God our Father and Creator ultimately  always has everything under His control! Carefully read the biblical history of Job. This is why it is so very important to accept “Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior!” Jesus is the only door to heaven. God’s Word tells us that there is no other name by which you can be saved.

 

“It is written;

“As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has on those who fear him; for He knows how we are formed, He remembers that we are dust.

As for a man/woman his/her days are like grass, he/she flourishes like a flower of the field; the wind blows over it  and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more. 

But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear Him, and His righteousness with their children’ s  children- with those who keeps His Covenant. and remember to obey His precepts.  The Lord has established His throne in Heaven, and His Kingdom rules over all…” PSALM 103 NIV

 

However, you must accept Jesus into your heart if you plan to spend eternity with God.  He is the only  Door to God and there is no other way to heaven. Living out loud His Word daily will give you the strength to go through this valley of the shadow of death. We can be or become confident in God’s Word!  You can learn to “Walk by Faith!” God has showed us what is good and what He requires of us.  And that it is the whole  duty of man/woman to; “Do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God.”  Micah 6

 

 

Grief is natural

Life here on earth is just a mere passage way to our soul’s eternal resting place. Grief is natural. You have a right to be sad. You have a right to cry and grieve.  But you do not have to live here. You can  find comfort in the Lord.  The Valley of the Shadow of death is real. But allow the Lord to take you through  your grief not stay there forever.  Stay in touch with all your feelings.  But, don’t let them rob you from embracing and reminiscing upon the precious memories  you shared with your love one.  Allow room for joy and peace. Let this motivate you to live life to its fullest in an even better way.

 

Time is precious!  Therefore moving forward it is important not to take it for granted. Yes initially there is a period of heaviness that might dwell with you.  But daily learn to give your heavy Lord over to the Lord.  Yes, you may still sometimes or annually experience this grief  as well.  Grief is experienced differently by  each individual. At times it comes in waves.  It can creep up on you. It happens randomly. But allow the precious moments in as well. 

 

 

Invite the presence of the Lord all around you

When your heart is heavy freely cry and release your emotions.  Get you a soft comfy pillow and turn on some good Gospel Music and let it rip. Let the tears go.  But, also try singing, praying, praising and or giving thanks to God. Try just being still.   Don’t run! Invite the presence of the Lord around you.  Now take some time and  meditate upon  the Word.

 

Now you are ready to freely dwell upon the great moments and happy times you have shared with your love one. People do not belong to us they are not ours to keep. When the appointed time comes to transition this life we must release them back to the Lord. Remember how God has blessed you. Be Patient. Know with the Lord there will always be more time with them who believe in Him on the other side of Heaven. There will be a ” Sweet Heavenly Reunion.” They are in fact; ” absent from the body, but present with the Lord.”  But know; This is only true  if they accepted Christ Jesus into their hearts as their Lord and Savior.

 

If your love one did not believe grieve and intercede for their soul perhaps in those lasts moments they actually accepted Christ Jesus into their heart.  You  never know how your life impacted their life.  This will also help you to stay focus on Him instead of your grief or situation at hand as you place them in the Lord’s hand. Your security and significance must rely upon God who is the amazing incredible  “Solid Rock Foundation!” For He is greater than anything that will ever happen within our lives.

 

We never know what each day may bring. We are living in perilous times and some of everything is happening and will happen. Living for God is not just a Sunday thing. It is a daily lifestyle. We the people are His Church. Our body is the Temple where HIS HOLY SPIRIT  resides. We are supposed to live each day as though we are really expecting our Lord to return. Daily welcome His infilling presence within you and all around you!

 

Salvation is truly God’s wonderful plan for us. God extends salvation to all that sincerely accept Jesus Christ into their hearts as Savior and Lord.  One must truly believe, for Jesus Christ is the “Door ” to heaven.   “JESUS saith unto him, I am the WAY the TRUTH ad the LIFE: no man cometh unto the FATHER; but by ME.”  John 14  This is key to unlocking your faith & trust in the Lord.   For this secures our heavenly residence with the Lord. He can give us hope in the midst of grief, death, persecution and longsuffering. Truly deliverance from all evil is possible.  YES LORD! THANK YOU FATHER GOD FOR YOUR  PRECIOUS HOLY SPIRIT!

 

“But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, but beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you to salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth, to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ…” Thessalonians 2: 13-14.

 

 

GOD WILL GET YOU THROUGH THIS!

This is why His Word says in everything give thanks. God di not say that life would always be easy.  Regardless how things look; there is always & forever HOPE in the LORD!  GOD is strong, sovereign and mighty.  Above HIM there is no other. GOD CAN bring you through this. Lean on the Lord and keep believing and trusting in Him.  Let Him lead you upon the Path of Righteousness for His Name sake.  For He is more than able. Again do invite the presence of the Lord all around you.  Spend time with the Lord in His Word. FOR ONLY GOD CAN GIVE YOU HIS PEACE THAT SURPASSES THE UNDERSTANDING of Man/Woman.

 

GOD IS HOLY! HE IS A GREAT GOD.  “PRAY WITHOUT CEASING” all throughout your day. This helps you learn how to keep your focus upon GOD.   CALL UPON JESUS &  YES EVERYDAY; PRAISE HIM & BLESS HIS HOLY NAME!

Overcoming Sin

“It is by Grace we are saved not of works lest any man should boast.” Salvation is a gift of God. God has predestined us to be conformed to the image of His son. Once we become saved it is a continual growing process?

The process of salvation was designed by God to redeem us from the curse of sin and death. Due to the original sin of Adam and Eve we have inherited a sin based nature. We have inherited a natural proclivity towards sin. When we begin to grow in the knowledge and grace of our Lord and Savior we can begin learning how to overcome our weaknesses. Not in our own strength but only by His power. Psalms 84:11 says “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; The lord will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.”

Jesus overcame sin in the flesh as an example. To demonstrate and model to us that when we are obedient to God we can overcome flesh weaknesses. We must make a conscious effort to live lives that are pleasing in the sight of God. The Old Testament is full of examples when God’s children lived Holy lives. We are to live Holy. Holy does not mean we are sinless. It means we consciously choose to be governed by what God says. We are set apart for His use. There should be a definite difference in the way you live. It should reflect change eventually. Your life should reflect some evidence that you have surrendered. God does not ask us to do anything that we are not able to do. God has said, “Be ye Holy because I am Holy”.

When we choose to sin there are consequences. Salvation does not exempt us from the consequences of sin. The law of sowing and reaping is true. You do reap what you sow. Begin to sow seeds of righteousness before your sin harvest overtakes you. The world embraces sin. It continues to lure the believer to think that walking the broad road is safe. God does love us unconditionally but He allows us to be impacted by sin. The world is currently experiencing the consequences of sin. Jesus who was without sin died in shame on the cross for us. He bore the weight of our sins. He died; He gave His life to atone for the consequences of our sin.

We have been justified. This means we have been declared righteousness. We have been sanctified. Pardoned from the guilt and penalty of sin. This still does not give us an excuse to sin. God’s grace shields us from the total impact of our sins. Roman 5 says; “Therefore having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into His grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of GOD and not only that, but we glory in tribulation, knowing that tribulation produces patience and patience, character and character hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”

Why do we continue to encourage sin to prevail? When we condone sin we are doing just that. Scripture tells us ” If we confess our sins He is faithful to forgive us of our sins and His blood will cleanse us from all unrighteousness”. We must begin to move to a higher level of functioning. Our works do not save us. But our works are supposed to display our faith. If we allow sin to recycle and reign in our lives we water down the effectiveness of salvation. We must implement self- control over our sin weakness. Jesus was strong yet compassionate. Breaking unhealthy cycles can be painful. The old cliché’ no pain no gain is warranted.

God’s grace is the equalizer. It reminds us that he has given us salvation in lieu of who we are! No one deserves or can earn salvation. Each of us must develop a personal relationship with the Lord. This is where your personal strength comes from. If we hide God’s Word in our heart it helps us not to sin against Him. The scriptures are designed to shine the light on our sin so we can be convicted. When truly convicted we can feel remorseful. This is the process that leads to true repentance. “Grace and peace is multiplied by the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” According to II Peter 1:2

Quite often people don’t know the difference between persecution and conviction. Persecution is to harass in a manner to injure, grieve, or afflict. Convict means to find or prove guilty! The two are often confused. When you allow someone to feel convicted they may often see you as negative. Why? Because they will often associate you with the guilt they are feeling. They quite often feel you are persecuting them. It is very important to know your motives. You must learn to be a guardian to your heart. When you know your motives and you are aware God knows your motives you will have inner peace. Take time to study the prophets. You will be able to clearly see that they were considered as very negative. You see God’s grace is crucial for the Christian. It will sustain you when you are misunderstood.

Life is full of many valley and mountain top experiences. The casual acceptance of sin has allowed many to be deceived. Dysfunction has been sanctioned and embraced. Weakness nourished and comforted. Dysfunction has become an unhealthy comfort zone for many. God does not want any of His children to be a slave to sin. When you are a slave to something or someone it or they control you! Abandoning unhealthy cycles can be painful. But it actually leads to freedom! We begin to embrace freedom when we learn to take responsibility for our actions. Abandon the tendency to blame someone else. This will also begin to free you from the difficult merry-go-round of dysfunction. Did you know it is much easier to blame someone else for your unhappiness? If you take an honest examination you may possibly be able to determine the origin of your unhappiness. Quite often it was there long before you met your current accuser. Begin to take control by taking responsibility. Find healthy ways to meet your physical emotional and spiritual needs. Hebrews 4:16 tell us to”Come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need”

Paul had a thorn in his flesh but God told him his grace was sufficient! We today still don’t know what that thorn was! Perhaps it was the very thing that brought Paul in such close fellowship to the Lord? God allows people, situations, and things in our life for a reason. Discipline is not usually something we naturally welcome. Why? We would really rather avoid pain! Many times we would actually rather discipline someone else. But for the child of God discipline is absolutely necessary! A little acronym I learned long ago; Grace is actually Gods, Riches, At, Christ, Expense!

Christ did not need to suffer to learn obedience. He suffered for us! He humbled Himself for us! He fulfilled all of the requirements of righteousness for us! Roman 6:1 “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? We as children of God must strive to continuously discipline ourselves to His principles! Ask your self have you died to sin? Or should I say or you dying daily to sin? Is sin reigning in your life? Have you ventured onto the broad road? Or are you sitting on the fence? Begin to lay aside any sin that hinders your walk with the Lord! Commence living and standing on the Word of God! Jesus sacrificed his life for us. The blood sacrifices of animals would not do. God said if you truly love Him you will keep His commandments. In Roman 12 we are told to; “Present your body a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of GOD.”

Put It All In His Hands

Have you ever had a situation when you did not know what to do? Have you ever had a problem that you thought was so big you did not know how it could ever be resolved? Have you ever felt that no matter how hard you tried to explain something no one would understand? Have you ever felt so discouraged that you felt as though the weights of the world were upon your shoulders? Have you been physically ill or near death and felt that you were at the point of no return? Has death knocked on the door of a friend or love one unexpectedly? On the other hand has God freed you from narrow minded and shallow view thinking religious folks? Have you ever been persecuted, forsaken, maligned, misunderstood or unappreciated? Or have you just been so spiritually blessed you can just not express it in words? ( I am sure there are a few scenarios I forgot?) If you have ever experienced one or more of the above I have some great news for you! Nothing happens in your life that God is not aware of!

I want you to know that there is absolutely nothing that is too big, hard, and deep or complicated for GOD! More important all of the above are reasons to really get to find out what He is really all about “God is Love.” As a matter of fact in I Corinthians 13 the Scriptures tell us “Love never fails”. Never as a truism meaning never; it just won’t happen! Now don’t get me wrong. I said have you ever felt like? Did you know that your feelings can transport you into a realm of thought that you really do not have to enter? If you do enter you do not have to stay there? How do I do that? You must pluck some good ole spiritual fruit? Take just a slither of “self control”. Gradually digest it’s nutrients. This will help you take the helm. You must begin to get in gear. Shift by not allowing your feelings to get the best of you? How do I do that? Begin by acknowledging how you feel. Good, Bad or indifferent? Do not lean to your own understanding. Remember God is a Spirit of Truth! The Truth truly sets you free! Did you know that God will do exceedingly above and more than you could ever wish when you are obedient? He can, wants to and will direct your path. This is why it is important that you do not get bogged down in your thoughts nor into what someone else thinks. As simple as this might seem all you must do is shift your FOCUS!

For a moment let’s just imagine life as an obstacle course. Always keep in view, that at the end of your course your reward(s) awaits. To help you keep focused just know; your rewards are guaranteed and determined by God. Nobody can change or alter that fact. How many, much or few those rewards are is actually between you and God. God created you for a purpose. Each individual has a purpose. Once you embark into existence there is no way out unless you finish. Each individual has a time in which to complete their course. That time can be premature; prior to birth or instantly, after birth. That time can span a few minutes, days, weeks, years, decades or a century plus. There are no two paths designed that are exactly alike. Therefore you cannot navigate in the same manner as someone else. The Holy Spirit as the ultimate guide wants to and awaits too direct your path!

God who is all wise and all knowing has given us guide lines and instructions. This is why His Word is so very important. Now, just know that you can select some, all or part of His instructions. But are you ready for the consequences? You can practice them legalistically or even disregard, modify, add your own, or totally ignore the instructions. But are you ready for the consequences? Keep in mind there are actually some instructions that you do not have to do any more. Why is that? When Jesus came He left us with a better way. He is our only perfect example. He actually fulfilled the law. We are now free from the law. You must become familiar with His Word. It is full of history and wisdom. It is important to know what they were and what they are now! When you read His instructions you will be fed spiritually. This way you can really appreciate all that He has done for us! This will also help you when someone else gives you direction. You will know the difference when you have faithfully studied the instructions. Always remember you can opt to ignore all of them. But, again there will be consequences. Free choice was designed so we are not mechanical robots. Your intellect was actually designed for you to think intelligently. How do you think Adam named all those animals? It is crucial that you intellectually as well as spiritually yield to the Lord’s way. Yielding helps you to subscribe to His will being done in your life. Here is where you will find true freedom. You will also know “Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is liberty” But He tells us not to use our liberty to cloak maliciousness! Remember absolutely nothing is hidden from God! God is sovereign! This also helps you to keep focused!

God has given us the opportunity to have an internal guide. But you must first acknowledge Him as Lord of your life. To shift to this level of functioning you must invite His Son as your Savior to come and abide in your heart! Now you are ready! When all or any of those feelings I talked about earlier come what do you do? You shift your Focus to God. God our Father, our Creator and Maker of all things. Colossians tell us that there is not anything that was made that was not made through Jesus Christ. This world as we know it was spoke into existence. The Word, became flesh and dwelt among us! His Word is Jesus! He really does know all about your Troubles, Temptations or Trials. He really does have a way. That is why He says “I am the Way the Truth and the Life.” Jesus is the only door to Him!

When your life becomes burdened down with the troubles of this world remember it is only a test? Life wants to distract you from your purpose. You were created to worship and praise God. I also have a little secret that just might help you? It does not matter how much or little someone thinks of you? It does not matter how much or little you have? It does not really even matter how many, or few titles that are in front of or behind your name. It does not even really matter what others say; especially when it is just not true . God knows the intent as well as content of our hearts. Hallelujah! Many will draw conclusions and make assumptions based on little or no factual data. Problems and situations are seasonal. God is eternal! He always was and always will be! This is why it is so important not to get drawn into how you feel. Feeling is a good thing, anyone that does not feel is ready for the grave. Just don’t let your feelings control you. It’s never too late to change. Begin to learn to take in several bites of self control. It really goes a long way. You can learn to be objective when you deeply examine situations. Many are often deceived. Remember, you must learn to focus. This will give you the proper motivation to do the right thing at the proper time. It will also give you a taste of another fruit which is inner peace. This will also let you know what is important. What really is important is; that you know and obey God. God will never lead you to do anything morally, physically or spiritually that goes against His principles.

Start today by incorporating in your daily diet His fruit. Galatians 5 will teach you all about the fruit of God’s Spirit. It also lets you know by contrast the works of the flesh. You have as much tine as you need to accomplish what He wants you to do. Oops! By the way it might seem to others when you take a bite of patience you have, or are………whatever? Patience often does work tribulation. Oh but HOPE will take you through tribulation. Hope helps you not to be ashamed. It will definitely help you keep focused! But your hope must lie in God! Did you know your mind can bring you down and confuse you when it is not properly focused? It can allow you to distort the facts. Remember God’s Love never fails! Now if you have not confessed and believed in your heart you may or should I say will have a problem with all of this. Why? It so simple that it is difficult. Be careful who and what you yoke yourself up with. There are those who major in worry. Have you ever heard the expression “If you are going to worry why pray?” God’s yoke is easy and His burdens are light. His burdens are not to weigh you down. They come so you can what? Put it all in His hands.

Always remember who and what awaits you. Better yet who is with you? His precious Comforter, the Holy Spirit! The way this world is going, it’s just no telling, you might just be one of those who ends up being caught up in the air with Jesus? Either way at the end of this course God has reward(s). Keep your faith and trust in Him. He really does have it all under His control. This is why it is very important to always keep in view; God has a purpose for you! This is why He says be anxious for nothing! But in “all things through prayer and supplications let your request be made known… “If your mind is stayed (focused) on Him He will keep you in perfect peace.” All you must do is “PUT IT ALL IN HIS HANDS”

To God be the Glory!