Jul
21
Keeping my bearings.
Filed by Becky Albrecht Under Uncategorized | Leave a Comment
There are two important questions that we can ask ourselves that may help as we serve Christ in His Kingdom.
It’s good to ask them seriously, honestly, continually.
Then, by God’s grace, in His strength, and with a lot of encouragement from our friends, we can act on what is learned.
The first question is: “Who is the only person whose opinion matters to me?”
The answer to this question is that God is the only person whose opinion of me ultimately matters.
Here are some thoughts for us from God’s Word:
“… there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do. ” (Hebrews 4:13)
“[God] made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” (II Corinthians 5:21)
“Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.” (Proverbs 29:25)
“Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matthew 10:28)
“I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.” (Isaiah 61:10)
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…” (Romans 8:1)
The second question is: “Who is the only person I can control?”
The answer to this question is: “me.” *I* am the only person that I can control.
So, what CAN I do?
Here are a few thoughts to get me started:
“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24)
“If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.” (Romans 12:18)
“So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.” (Romans 14:9)
“Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.” (Hebrews 12:14-15)
“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.” (James 1:19)
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1)
“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.” (Titus 3:1-3)
“In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 7:12)
“To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing.” (I Peter 3:8-10)
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” (Ephesians 4:29)
“…speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.” (Ephesians 4:15)
“Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently.” (Galatians 6:1)
About Christ Himself, God’s Word tells us: “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth. When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.” (I Peter 2:23)
“So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.” (I Peter 4:19)
“I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13)
”’Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty.” (Zechariah 4:6)
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” (II Corinthians 12:9)
”…being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father…” (Colossians 1:11)
Quite a challenge! But, remember that these thoughts are not studied “once and done.” Just like a compass gives us direction when traveling, these are thoughts to which I need to continually return in order to “take my cue from Christ,” and maintain my true bearings.
by God’s grace, in His strength… to His glory.
