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Monday, February 12, 2024 4:08 PM

How to Make Sound Decisions

Monday, February 12, 2024 4:08 PM
Monday, February 12, 2024 4:08 PM

We live in a world where we have so many options.

Choices:

If you want a soda, does that mean Coke, Pepsi, Dr Pepper, Sprite, etc.? If you want a restaurant, do you want steak, Italian food, Mexican food, Chinese food, etc.?  It’s the same thing with buying shoes or clothes. We are presented with so many options that at times it is difficult to make a decision.

Indecision:

Indecision means: the inability to make decisions quickly : a wavering between two or more possible courses of action.

Indecision is paralyzing, and our decisions do determine our destiny. So, we had better make the right ones. There is so much pressure that every decision seems to be life or death. It’s just not true. Sure, some decisions are more important than others, and we won’t get them all right. When we blow it, we are to learn from it and grow. But we have to make decisions every day, and the worst place, most frustrating place, to be is in the place of indecision.

Decision:

So, what are we to do? Firstly, let’s realize as Christians we have the word of God to help lead and guide us, to go to for direction. It is our map to lead us to the right path. It will help us make decisions. Secondly, don’t attempt to make a lot of decisions at once. Deal with one thing at a time and begin limiting your options. This will help you make decisions.

Along with the Bible, believing it enough to do it, act on it, will always be the best guide in making sound decisions — decisions that will bless us.

Just a thought,

PSS

Monday, February 5, 2024 6:33 PM

In His Image

Monday, February 5, 2024 6:33 PM
Monday, February 5, 2024 6:33 PM

In the profound journey of faith, one of the foundational beliefs that deeply enrich our understanding of ourselves and our purpose in life is the biblical assertion that we are made in the image of God. This concept is far more than a mere religious statement; it's a declaration of our inherent value and dignity. Genesis 1:27 tells us, "So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them." This passage illuminates the extraordinary worth placed upon us, indicating that our resemblance to God transcends the physical, touching on our capacity for love, moral discernment, creativity, and relationship-building. It's this spiritual likeness to our Creator that distinguishes us within the entirety of creation.

 

Understanding that we bear God's image is both elevating and challenging. It invites us to live lives that reflect the nobility of this divine attribution. This perspective encourages us to conduct ourselves with integrity, extend unconditional love, and serve others with a spirit of humility. When we grasp the magnitude of our value in God's eyes, it profoundly transforms our self-view and the manner in which we engage with those around us. Every person bears this sacred imprint, compelling us to treat each other with the utmost respect, compassion, and kindness, in acknowledgment of the God-given dignity inherent in every individual.

 

Moreover, recognizing ourselves as made in God's image has a profound effect on our spiritual journey. A.W. Tozer once said, "What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us." This insight reveals that understanding our creation in God's likeness should draw us nearer to Him, encouraging a vibrant and personal relationship. It challenges us to reflect God's character through our actions, attitudes, and ambitions. In a world fraught with challenges and distractions, the awareness that we are made in the image of God anchors our identity and purpose. It reminds us that our calling is to be beacons of light in the darkness, mirroring the love and truth of our Creator in all that we do.

 

Just a thought,

 

PSS

Monday, January 29, 2024 3:17 PM

The Great Commission

Monday, January 29, 2024 3:17 PM
Monday, January 29, 2024 3:17 PM

I want to share with you some thoughts that have been on my heart about the incredible depth of God's acceptance, the vital role of evangelizing, and the importance of making disciples.

Firstly, let's remember the vastness of God's acceptance. No matter our past, our mistakes, or the paths we've walked, God's love for us remains constant and unwavering. He isn't focused on where we've been, but on where we are going and the condition of our hearts. It's an ever-present reminder that it's never too late to turn or return to Him. Just as the prodigal son was welcomed with open arms, so too are we, always. This truth should bring us comfort and encourage us to extend the same unconditional love to others.

Secondly, evangelism is a calling that we all share as believers. We hold the most vital message for the world — the Good News of God’s love and salvation. It's not only our privilege but our duty to share this message. Evangelism is not reserved for a select few: it is a part of the Christian journey, an act of sharing the greatest gift we've ever received. It's about reaching out, making connections, and opening doors to new beginnings in Christ.

Lastly, making disciples is more than just leading someone to Christ; it's a commitment to walk alongside them in their faith journey. True discipleship means nurturing, mentoring, and guiding new believers as they grow in their understanding and love for God. It's about creating a supportive community where we all learn, grow, and encourage each other in our walk with Christ. As we disciple others, we not only fulfill the Great Commission but also replicate the love and teachings of Jesus in our own lives and those around us.

As we continue in our faith, let's hold these truths close to our hearts. Let's be a community/Church known for its unwavering love, active sharing of the Gospel, and dedication to nurturing and growing together in Christ.

Just a thought,

PSS

Monday, January 22, 2024 2:11 PM

Living Generously

Monday, January 22, 2024 2:11 PM
Monday, January 22, 2024 2:11 PM

Living a generous life is deeply rooted in the understanding that our time, resources, and abilities are not just for our own benefit, but for the enrichment of others. This principle is beautifully encapsulated in the words of Winston S. Churchill, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” Generosity is not merely about financial giving: it’s a broader philosophy that encompasses giving of oneself — time, attention, and care. It's about cultivating a spirit of abundance rather than scarcity, seeing life as an opportunity to enrich others. This perspective is life-changing, transforming every interaction and decision into a chance to positively impact another person’s life.

Scripturally, generosity is a core principle in the Bible. 2 Corinthians 9:7 states, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” This verse highlights the attitude behind generosity — it’s about the joy and willingness in giving, not just the act itself. This perspective fosters a culture of kindness and open-handedness, encouraging individuals to give not out of obligation, but out of a genuine desire to help and spread kindness.

The ripple effect of living generously is profound. Anne Frank once said, “No one has ever become poor by giving.” This statement underlines the paradox of generosity — in giving, we often receive. Not necessarily in material wealth, but in joy, fulfillment, and purpose. Generous living has the power to create communities where empathy and support are prevalent, and where the act of giving is valued as a vital part of human experience. It’s about understanding that our greatest legacy is how we impact the lives of others and how we contribute to a world that is more compassionate and kind.

Just a thought,

PSS

Monday, January 15, 2024 7:34 AM

Love One Another

Monday, January 15, 2024 7:34 AM
Monday, January 15, 2024 7:34 AM

Relationships play a pivotal role in Christian life, deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible which emphasize love, compassion, and community. In Christianity, relationships are seen not just as social connections, but as spiritual bonds that reflect the love of God. This perspective is founded on the belief that humans are created in the image of God, who is relational in nature. As such, Christians are encouraged to nurture relationships that mirror the love, patience, forgiveness, and selflessness demonstrated by Jesus Christ. These relationships are not limited to those within the faith community but extend to all humanity, emphasizing the Christian call to love one's neighbor as oneself.

The importance of relationships in Christianity also extends to the concept of fellowship. Fellowship involves coming together for worship, support, and encouragement, reflecting the New Testament's emphasis on the early Christians gathering in unity. This communal aspect of faith is not just about shared beliefs, but about sharing life’s experiences, joys, and struggles. It underscores the belief that faith is lived out in community and that spiritual growth often happens in the context of relationships. Through fellowship, Christians find a place of belonging, learn to exercise their spiritual gifts, and experience the tangible love of God through their interactions with others.

Moreover, relationships in Christianity are a means of witness and service. Jesus’ teachings highlight the importance of serving others, and Christian relationships are often marked by acts of kindness, charity, and social justice. Through loving and serving others, Christians embody the teachings of Christ, offering a visible witness to the transformative power of Christian love. This service extends beyond the church, reaching out to the wider community and world. In essence, relationships in Christianity are a journey of reflecting God's love, nurturing spiritual growth, and living out faith through service and fellowship.

Just a thought,

PSS

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