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.”

What are you Wearing?

Today, style and fashion are very important. When one wears the latest trends, he is considered with the times. Daily, men and women get up and dress themselves according to their lifestyle and likes. They dress in order to show others what they think of themselves and to get a response from those who see them – rather good or bad.

In addition, many others dress according to their professions. You can know where they are employed by their uniforms. Waiters, waitresses, doctors, nurses, police officers, and the like all wear uniforms so that they are quickly identified.

And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Eph 4:24 (KJV)

Since clothing is an important part of life, the Christian has to understand that he also must be properly dressed. We have stated that certain professions have particular uniforms for easy identification. The same holds true for Christianity. The dress code is not revealed in outer clothing, but in the “spiritual” garments on the inside of an individual; that is, within one’s character.

 Paul reminded his readers to put off the old man (meaning things of the flesh that did not please God) and put on the new man, which is in the image of Christ. He reveals that the Christian is to treat their inner selves like a body that needs to be dressed. So, the question on today is “What are You Wearing?” Does your character make you easily identifiable as a Christian? If not, you need to change your clothes and put on love, joy, peace, humility, and the like.

Prayer of the Week:

“I thank you that you have provided me with what I need for spiritual growth and success. Help me as I strive to put on the new man. Amen”

What a Waste: Having a Profitable Mind

Years ago, the United Negro College Fund implemented the slogan, “A Mind is a Terrible Thing to Waste,” as a way to increase awareness for education. Its sentiment is clear; a mind that does not expand and grow is a waste. This signifies that growth and transformation of the mind is essential to an individual’s progress in life. The same holds true in the Christian walk and experience.

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2 (KJV)

Paul reminded his readers that they were to be transformed (into Christ’s image) by the renewing of their minds. Hence, we understand that our minds play an important role in our Christian journey. Though with the heart man believes, it is with the mind that man achieves renewal, growth, and maturity in Christ. You must ask yourself on today, “Am I letting my mind go to waste, spiritually?”

When you do not allow your mind (outlook, perspectives, and convictions) to be conformed to Christ, it is a waste. Remember, we must be humble and submit ourselves to God. This is done through compliance and adherence to the scriptures as well as following the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Never let it be said of you as a Christian, “What a Waste.”

Prayer of the Week:

“Lord, I want to be of service to you. I submit my mind, heart, and emotions to you on today. Amen.”

God will Restore

    Though man has intellect, knowledge, skills, and abilities, he is vulnerable in many areas. One of the things that a man born on this earth cannot avoid is the experience of loss. All who pass through the womb will feel its effects at some time in life. It simply cannot be avoided.   Daily we lose time. We suffer the loss of loved ones through death. We lose jobs. We lose friends. We lose memories. As we age, we may lose beauty, strength, hair, and other things. In a world characterized by loss, we can rejoice that God specializes in restoration and revitalization.

And Adam knew his wife again; and she bare a son, and called his name Seth: For God, said she, hath appointed me another seed instead of Abel, whom Cain slew. Gen 4:25 (KJV)

    Remember, the story of Cain and Abel. It ended with the murder of Abel and the exile of Cain. However, on today, see the love and mercy of God bestowed upon Adam and Eve. They lost a son but God gave them another. We see that when Seth was born, Eve realized it was God’s restoration from the previous tragic events. 

    What has happened in your life? What things have you lost? You can lose more than time and loved ones. Many have lost hope, joy, peace, power, faith, and happiness. Realize on today that God will restore. If He thought enough of Eve to give her another son in the stead of Abel, how much the more will he revive and restore to you the things that you have lost (both spiritually and naturally)? Understand that He will revive, renew, and restore.

Prayer of the Week: 

“Lord, grant me the grace to trust that you will renew, revive, and restore things in my life that have been lost. I thank you for what you will do. Amen.”