Category Archives: Obedience

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July 18, 2013

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Attitudes & Behavior, Obedience

OUR REFLECTIONS

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Let us look closely at our ways and examine them and then return to the Lord. Let us raise our hearts and hands to God in heaven. [Lamentations 3:40-41 (GW)]

Many of us don’t want to look too closely at ourselves in a mirror; we see every blemish, wrinkle, grey hair and bulge. It can be rather demoralizing. We’re also rather hesitant when it comes to looking at our hearts and souls because that can be disheartening as well. Sometimes, however, a little self-examination is in order. Rather than letting our assessment discourage us, we must allow it to inspire us to alter our behavior and improve our lives.

Though no one can go back and make a brand-new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand-new ending. [Carl Bard]

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July 15, 2013

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Attitudes & Behavior, Obedience

NO EXCUSES

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. [Philippians 1:27a (NIV)]

We’re told “whatever” happens we’re to conduct ourselves in a way that honors Christ. In God’s eyes, there is never an excuse for bad behavior!

Father in heaven, may we always be worthy of the title “Christian.”

 

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July 5, 2013

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Love & Works, Obedience, Salvation: A New You

THE CHOICE IS OURS

Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life. [Deuteronomy 30:19-20a (NLT)]

If only all of our options were this clear-cut! If only every contract we sign was this concise! There is no money down or fine print, no hidden qualifications, and no undisclosed obligations. Even pre-existing conditions don’t matter. Our choice is well-defined for us: love, obey and commit to God or not. Life or death; the choice is ours.

 

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June 12, 2013

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Obedience, Trusting God

Trust Him

Trust the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths smooth. [Proverbs 3:5-6 (GW)]

Often we’re troubled because we want to know why God does what he does or asks what he does of us. It’s really not ours to know. The important thing to remember is that we don’t have to understand God to submit to him; we just have to trust him.

 

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May 8, 2013

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Attitudes & Behavior, Love & Works, Obedience

LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR

You’ve told the truth that there is only one God and no other besides him! To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding, with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as you love yourself is more important than all the burnt offerings and sacrifices.” [Mark 12:32-34 (GW)]

Sometimes loving God doesn’t seem nearly as difficult as loving our neighbors. Yet, God only knows how much we truly love him by the way we treat our fellow man! Lord, who needs to see your love through me today?

 The whole being of any Christian is faith and love. Faith brings the man to God, love brings him to men. [Martin Luther]

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April 19, 2013

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Attitudes & Behavior, Love & Works, Obedience

OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS

Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone – especially to those in the family of faith. [Galatians 6:10a (NLT)]

We’re to do good whenever we have the opportunity, not just whenever it is convenient or when we feel especially benevolent. It doesn’t matter if we like or know the people needing our help or if our actions are advantageous to us or will bring us public admiration. It’s quite simple; do good whenever the opportunity arises!

Lord, make me willing when opportunity knocks!