I was forced onto an emotional roller coaster this past week and I have to admit even though I love a good ride, this up and down run drained me. It really helped me reaffirm the fact our lives are a result of decisions we make each day.
From a simple smile to a hearty laugh, weeping after a loss or giving someone a hug, how we react to every day occurrences dictates who we are. Getting upset at a reckless driver and taking this frustration home will most likely spread negative energy onto your loved ones. Getting mad at a coworker won’t get you a raise. Cussing after getting lost, stubbing your toe or catching an elbow trying to help a child isn’t right either.
Sinning and making mistakes are a mile apart and not to be confused. Everyone makes mistakes however, it is how we react to these errors of judgment which defines who we are.
Taking a step back paints a clearer picture and helps me focus on decision making as a vehicle to a joyful life. Basically, it is up to us to either get upset or remain calm when God throws a challenge our way or worse, when we are tempted or attacked by evil. It is also up to those around us to refine their own decision making so that we all gain from God’s power. After all, He is at the root of it all!
I would like if you gave this week’s message some thought and try it on for size. Try catching yourself getting frustrated or upset then reach for the light within you and follow in God’s footsteps. Ask yourself “What would Jesus do?”
Imagine a life without challenges. With the understanding that life will pose challenges, it makes sense that we try meet with each test equipped with the best tools available. Experience, endurance and confidence are all great attributes but only Faith will see you through no matter if you fail or succeed. God will always be with you. The bible instructs us to ready ourselves for the fight against evil:
“In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.” (Ephesians 6:16-18)
“Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience. For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.” (Hebrews 4:11-13)
“Likewise you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Repent therefore! Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it.” (Revelation 2:15-17)
Be happy and ready for the challenges in your life and ask God to lead you through them, don’t just control your temper, ignore it! Shine like the sun, pray to God that He continues to be your guide and always remember He is forever present and willing to help when you need him.
Additionally I invite you to call on us for prayer and answers to troubling questions you may have pertaining to faith, the battle against evil or how to better prepare for challenges ahead.
Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for this day
And for the challenges you have brought in our lives,
We ask for your strength in difficult times
And pray you will be there each time we need you.
Lord we thank you for your all mighty power
Which continues to drive us,
And pray that you always be there
To pull us along and keep us Faithful.
God please forgive our sins
Forgive our hurtful decisions,
And lead us to live perfect lives
Just as you did while among us.
We thank you for providing all we need
To go through each day,
And ask that you continue to bless our lives
Like only you can.
We thank you for your love and all that surrounds us!
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
