Appreciate Christ

Receiving Christ in your life as Savior is the best thing that could happen to you. However, there are many who are miserable and unhappy in their walk with Christ. This is due largely in part to personal comfort and conveniences. Many are unappreciative of their salvation because life is not going how they would like for it to go.

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. Psalms 1:1 (KJV)

God gives us all things to enjoy freely. However, the joy and happiness of the Christian should not rest in material possessions and worldly gain. Joy and happiness should be founded upon the Christian’s deliverance from a life of sin and the bondages that come with it.

In Psalm 1, the writer tells us that blessed or happy is the man who does righteousness. When you do not walk in the counsel of the ungodly or stand (live) in the way of sinners, this should fuel your happiness.

When you are able to overcome sin and desire righteousness, this should be the basis for your happiness. Why? Because righteousness will bless you and others in this life, and it will take you into the life that is to come. This is why you should appreciate your salvation even when life does not go how you would like it.

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, I thank you for your blessings. On this day, I make special mention of your salvation and deliverance from sin. I am grateful for all things. Amen”

The Hallmark of a Disciple

 

Jesus came into the world to save man from sin. Biblical history reveals the continual rebellion and unrighteousness of men following the Fall. Yet, we see in the scriptures the love, patience, and mercy of God even upon those who refused to acknowledge Him. This “love legacy” of God culminated with Him sending His Son, Jesus. God loved the world, so He sent Christ. Christ loved the world, so He gave His life – giving all that receive Him the ability to stand before God in peace.

By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. John 13:35 (KJV)

All those that receive Christ are His disciples. A Christian’s discipleship is verified by LOVE. Love is the hallmark of the disciple. Those who receive Christ have been recipients of God’s love, grace, and mercy. This should fuel the Christian’s resolve to share the love that they have received.

Although we carry God’s message to the world, Jesus stated that the disciple is known by his love for other disciples. How do we view and treat other Christian is the identifier for the disciple?  So, where are you today in your Christian walk and discipleship experience? One way to evaluate it is by the love that is demonstrated to others.

Prayer of the Week:

“God, I thank you for your great love towards me. Aid me as I endeavor to a disciple of Christ. Let your love be demonstrated in me towards others. Amen.”