There are many who live like enemies of the cross of Christ. I have often told you about them. And it makes me cry to tell you about them now. The way they live is leading them to destruction. They have replaced God with their own desires. They do shameful things, and they are proud of what they do. They think only about earthly things. Philippians 3:18-19 ERV
When I read Paul’s words, I could feel his passion for others, and my heart was heavy as well with compassion, concern, and love for those I know in this same situation.
It appears that many folks have become comfortably numb with the ways of the world. Sex, sexual orientation, drugs, excessiveness of alcohol, entitlement, race relations (or lack of), argumentative attitudes…I’m sure you can add a few to this list.
Besides the news media, social media adds its own twist. Folks see what appears to be a fun, carefree, and often glamorous lifestyle posted by others, and desire to imitate the possibly filtered photos. This imitation desire often occurs without consideration of how God thinks and clearly says is right and wrong.
I want to encourage you to get into God’s word and read and reread the beautiful characteristics we are to have and way to live. Pray for your attitude and actions, and others too. Personally, I’ve found that when I start by praying/working on myself, it’s easier to deal with others while I’m praying for them as well. When we live for self, we are headed for destruction. Set your focus on heaven and live for Jesus.
Blessings to you and yours,
Stephanie ( I love my man! I love sunsets! I love being on the water! I love Jesus!)
How NOT to live:
Remember this: There are some terrible times coming in the last days. People will love only themselves and money. They will be proud and boast about themselves. They will abuse others with insults. They will not obey their parents. They will be ungrateful and against all that is pleasing to God. They will have no love for others and will refuse to forgive anyone. They will talk about others to hurt them and will have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. People will turn against their friends. They will do foolish things without thinking and will be so proud of themselves. Instead of loving God, they will love pleasure. They will go on pretending to be devoted to God, but they will refuse to let that “devotion” change the way they live. Stay away from these people! 2 Timothy 3:1-5 ERV
How TO LIVE:
“No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good,and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8
https://soakinguptheson.com/new/daily-journaling/how-to-live/
Your love must be real. Hate what is evil. Do only what is good. Love each other in a way that makes you feel close like brothers and sisters. And give each other more honor than you give yourself. As you serve the Lord, work hard and don’t be lazy. Be excited about serving him! Be happy because of the hope you have. Be patient when you have troubles. Pray all the time. Share with God’s people who need help. Look for people who need help and welcome them into your homes. Wish only good for those who treat you badly. Ask God to bless them, not curse them. When others are happy, you should be happy with them. And when others are sad, you should be sad too. Live together in peace with each other. Don’t be proud, but be willing to be friends with people who are not important to others. Don’t think of yourself as smarter than everyone else. If someone does you wrong, don’t try to pay them back by hurting them. Try to do what everyone thinks is right. Do the best you can to live in peace with everyone. My friends, don’t try to punish anyone who does wrong to you. Wait for God to punish them with his anger. In the Scriptures the Lord says, “I am the one who punishes; I will pay people back.” But you should do this: “If you have enemies who are hungry, give them something to eat. If you have enemies who are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this you will make them feel ashamed. ”. Romans 12:9-20 ERV
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