Jesus is asking Peter to stop building his own kingdom and to take up building Christ’s kingdom. Your kingdom may consist of accumulation, pride, careers, among other things. What would it take for you to stop building your own kingdom? If Jesus asked you to drop your net and follow Him, would you?
Jesus called out to them, ” Come, follow me and I will show you how to fish for people!”
Have you had a physical lately? Getting a call from your doctor about an abnormal lab result such as your cholesterol, blood pressure or sugar levels is not a welcoming news, but it can become motivating to live healthier. God has designed us to live both physically and spiritually. Why wait for a lab result to motivate you? Remember, God wants you to take care of your body. Honour Him by exercising and eating well.
Beloved ones, I pray for you to do well in every way, and be in health, as your life is doing well.
(III John 1:2 ISR98)
What would it look like for you to be eager to be hospitable? Hospitality is both a mind set and preparation. A lot of time we talk ourselves out of hosting a gathering because our home isn’t ready. In actuality we don’t want to extend ourselves. Other times, we are willing and able, but aren’t prepared with clean sheets or a meal in the freezer. Don’t let things stand in your way of practicing hospitality, be ready.
When Gods people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. Romans 12:13
Have you ever felt vulnerable to attack? Afraid that your responses to attack may cause you to react unrighteously? Don’t go into battle unprotected, instead, cloth yourself in God’s armor. Paul describes it as the armor of truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and then finalizes with the action to pray. God will equip you with the tools you need.
Put on the whole armor of God so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. Ephesians 6:11
Every one encounters bad customer service one time or another. It can be the waitress, cable company, or call centre operator who is hard to understand. Instead of reacting in anger take a different approach and reward those who do get it right by shinning some Godly light. This long term vantage can be a collective effort that makes a greater impact on not only yourself, but future customers.
…….., therefore give recognition to such ones. (I Corinthians 16:18 ISR98)
God has crowned you with dignity and honour being made in His own image. For this reason you should not give in to the temptation of insecurity. God does not see insecurity in anyone only we do. Signs of insecurity includes overreacting and anger towards something or someone. The next time you find yourself angry dig deep and examine the cause behind your anger. Maybe it just might be from your feelings of insecurity.
What is man that You remember him? And the son of man that You visit him? Yet You have made him a little less than Elohim, And have crowned him with esteem and splendour.
(Psalms 8:4, 5 ISR98)
Do you deny the gifts that God has given you? True humility recognises that you possess gifts, however you give credit to the One who has made you instead of taking the credit for yourself.
How would you like it if you gave a very special gift to someone and they refused it? Tweak you humility to recognise God.
The reward of humility is the fear of Lord, Riches, and esteem and life. (Proverbs 22:4 ISR98)
It’s important to praise God and recognise His glory. There are several different ways to exalt the creator of the universe. The most obvious is using words of recognition to others. Actions can also convey praise such as song and dance. Another is using your talent and skill to acclaim God as the most high.
Are you giving God the praise and glory He deserves?
I exalt You, my Elohim, O Sovereign; And bless Your Name forever and ever. (Psalms 145:1 ISR98)
Are you standing on your tip toes trying to get closer to God? Usually, when on your tip toes, after some time a soreness begins creeping up your legs. In the same way, a relationship with God will bring a bit of pain. Standing on your toes will strengthen your muscles and build your stamina, but so too it is the same in a closer relationship with God. Those extra inches in height would bring you a glorious view of God, His kingdom, and His plan. Go on, stretch yourself!
Some types of foolish talk include talking bad about another person (gossip) and spreading false information about another person ( slander). Instead of worthless talk, set your mind on building others up and being a light to others.
But keep away from profane, empty babblings, for they go on to more wickedness,
(II Timothy 2:16 ISR98)
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