Before going through the readings for the day and writing
about it I always pray. I usually ask for clarity, knowledge, wisdom and
understanding on what I am about to read. In addition I ask to not just learn
but actually apply what I’ve learned and gained to my life. Some days ideas on
what to write about come easily while other days take a little more thought.
For today’s reading I literally just wanted to rewrite what was already written
in the bible. I felt as if 1 Peter 4 spoke so clearly and in a nutshell
explained how we as believers should live our lives. Here are a few examples.
“1 Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm
yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is
done with sin. 2 As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives
for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.” It is a constant
battle between our flesh and our spirit. Our flesh wants to satisfy the evil
human desires. It is full of debauchery,selfish in nature, quick to anger, irritable etc. The spirit is full of love,
peace, kindness, joy, faithfulness, self control etc. When you don’t give in to
the desires of your flesh but walk in the spirit you overcome sin and do the
will of God. Although the temptations will continually arise, each time you
overcome them you grow stronger in the Lord.
“8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers
over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.
10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as
faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” Love covers over a
multitude of sins; love doesn’t hate, it isn’t jealous, it isn’t quick to
anger, it isn’t boastful, it is patient, it is kind, it does not boast and is
not proud. We have all been blessed with different talents, there is a saying
that goes “Your talent is God’s gift to you and what you do with it is your
gift back”. Our blessings and talents were not given to use to store away, hide
or use to only benefit ourselves. We should use our talents to not only benefit
our lives but the lives of others. Be a blessing to others, help further the
kingdom, allow people to see the God in you through your generous actions.
“12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal
that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to
you. 13 But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so
that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted
because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of
God rests on you.” Don’t be shocked, there will be trials and tribulations
along the way. Through it all continue to give God the glory and believe in
faith he will deliver you. There may be people who attempt to get you to slip
up, or out right persecute you for your beliefs. Stand firm on the word of God.
Stay Thirsty My Friends
Thirsty Thursdays
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