Freedom in Christ

As we celebrate Independence Day and the freedoms we enjoy today let us not forget that true freedom only comes through Christ. Let’s consider what Paul wrote in Galatians 5.

In verse 1 he says, It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

It is up to each believer to stand firm on the truth and show our love by being obedient to Christ. We see it in verses 7-8,  You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth?  That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you.

Jesus is now the main actor in our lives not us. In verse 13, You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. Just like Christ.

Be wise today and always realize where true freedom comes from.

And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them. - Mark 10:16On this day where we celebrate our independence. May we declare our dependence on Jesus Christ. May you feel His presence and blessing on you and your home. I am thankful for what the Lord has done in my family's life. Two of my children are serving the Lord in other countries today. may they feel His touch and embrace.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. - Matthew 5:9.

Be wise today and always - rest in the arms of Christ.

Annointed

One of the great promises of God is to fill believers with His Holy Spirit. We all have the Spirit’s anointing:

1 John 2:20 –But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth

1 John 2:27 – As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit—just as it has taught you, remain in him.

The anointing from the Spirit is like a satellite dish deep inside us. It’s a receiver for invisible divine signals, so we are able to pick up every communication God wants to send are way, even though we can’t see Him. The more we pursue and relate to God, the more He will amaze you with all He has to offer.

The problem is sometimes we spring a leak, and we're not "overflowing" like we should be. Stop those sin leaks in your life and ask God to fill you anew! 

Be wise today and always - be filled to overflowing with the Spirit.

Lead Yourself

I hope that where ever you are that you will be attending this year’s Global Leadership Summit, August 9-10. Take responsibility when it comes  to leadership – Everyone is a leader, and remember the first person you lead is yourself!

True wisdom and direction comes from following Christ. God deprives the leaders of the earth of their reason; he makes them wander in a trackless waste. – Job 12:24.

Find someone who can mentor, inspire, teach, and follow their lives in Christ. Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. – Hebrews 13;7.

Be wise today and always – follow the real leader.

Better than I Deserve

I heard the other day someone who responded to the question, How are you? with Better than I deserve. That got me thinking about how with Christ we are better off than we deserve.

The thief on the cross next to Jesus being crucified said to the other criminal, We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” – Luke 23:41. The thief recognized his punishment was due him because of the crimes he had committed. He also realized the Jesus did not deserve the punishment. Christ too the punishment we deserved to pay the price for our sins.

The Lord is compassionate and gracious; slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. – Psalm 103:8-12

Be wise today and always realize with Christ you are better than you deserve.

Humble Service

How are you serving God?

There are so many opportunities to work for the Lord, and there are a variety of jobs.  Paul tells us in Romans 12:6-8, ⁶ We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; ⁷ if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; ⁸ if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

There are many gifts, and each believer is promised a spiritual gift.

What has God gifted you with, and are you using it?

Be wise today and always – use your gifts

Beautiful Feet

One of my favorite passages is found in Romans 10:14-15 - How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?  And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!"

My son just finished week one of a five week mission trip to Haiti. We just received this picture, and the update that 71 children accepted Christ as Savior at the VBS they just completed. Well done son and thank you Jesus!

The Bible commands us to be Jesus’ witness to the world. Where are your “beautiful feet” supposed to be going to share? No excuses – the world desperately needs to here the hope of Christ.

Be wise today and always - be God’s witness wherever you go.