B2B Concert of Prayer – Lights in the World #995

Posted on October 23, 2016 by ron021950

CONCERT OF PRAYER

Pray Week 995

shine-28150_186x186“Lights in the World”

Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life…(Philippians 2:14-16)

I grew up in a world where people were politely addressed as ‘Sir’ and ‘Ma’am’ and elders and parents were treated with respect.

“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you. (Exodus 20:12)

I was taught by word and example that when your employer asks you to do something, as long as it was safe and ethical you did it to the best of your ability without grumbling or arguing.

 Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. (Colossians 3:23-24)

As I continue to work in my management career, I see that these character traits are all but gone in today’s work force. Sadly, the self-centered, what’s-in-it-for-me mind set of the generation of the entitled transcends the work place into all aspects of society and into the church as well.

I dare say that John Kennedy’s 1961 call to action: “Ask not what your country can do for you…”, would fall on deaf ears in the majority of today’s pool of voters.

The timeless validity of the application of God’s Word is evident in our reference Scripture from Paul’s letter to the Philippians. God is calling the church body to shine as lights in this crooked and twisted generation.

As those who profess to be Christians we are to:

Set the example for respect of parents and elders.

Set the example for a Biblical work ethic in our churches and places of work.

Set the example in exercising our right to vote and to vote biblical values.

Set the example by striving with God’s help to be blameless and live unblemished lives.

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.  In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:14-16)

May the Holy Spirit speak to your heart through the revelation of God’s Word and work to transform your life and character to shine as lights in this world. May you rise above the muck and mire of this crooked and twisted generation and live a life of integrity of character without compromise before God and your fellow man.

Posted in Business as Mission, Character, Holiness, Obedience, Workplace | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Concert of Prayer – Someone Who is Greater #994

Posted on October 13, 2016 by ron021950

CONCERT OF PRAYER

Pray Week 994

pray-vote“Someone Who is Greater”

The queen of Sheba will also stand up against this generation on judgment day and condemn it, for she came from a distant land to hear the wisdom of Solomon. Now someone greater than Solomon is here… (Matthew 12:42, NLT)

I voted today via early mail-in ballot. I have been voting since 1968 and this election has been the most gut wrenching of all. Never before have I seen such poor choices on a ballot. After all the primaries these are best candidates America can harvest?!  A Scripture from Hosea comes to mind:

For they sow the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind. (Hosea 8:7)

‘What are you looking for?’ the Lord prompted me as I prayed over my ballot. ‘I am looking for a person of integrity of character,’ I replied. ‘A moral person – a leader with a vision that I can rally behind and follow.’ Then the Scripture from Matthew came to mind, ‘…Someone greater…is here.’

I am flawed. You are flawed. All the candidates are flawed human beings. …for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God… (Romans 3:23)

It became clear that this election is not as much voting for an individual as it is following the Word of God. Jesus, the Living Word of God is the ‘Someone greater’ that is here and we are to follow Him.

There are many critical issues on the table: Immigration, the economy, education, terrorism, 2nd amendment rights, abortion and the list goes on. The laws regarding many of these issues will be decided in our Supreme Court, not the least of which is the legalized murder of our unborn children which needs to be overturned.

This election is about the Supreme Court. Our next President will nominate three and possibly four or five new justices who will shape the laws of our nation for decades to come.

Many are saying they will not vote at all because of the poor choices on the ballot. Others are willing to throw their vote away by writing in a non-candidate. This is flat wrong! If you profess to faith in Jesus Christ, you are morally obliged to use your allotted ‘talent’ e.g. your right and privilege to vote in service to God and your country.

…so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.’  But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant!’… (Matthew 25:25-30)

May you pray and seek ‘Someone who is greater’, Jesus, the Living Word of God as you pray over your ballot. May you be guided by His wisdom as you look beyond the next four years and to the future of our nation. May you know the heart and mind of the Lord as you serve Him in voting.

May God Bless America!

Posted in Business as Mission, Direction, Morality, Obedience, Prayer, Priorities, Purpose, Service | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

B2B Concert of Prayer – Trust at all times #993

Posted on September 25, 2016 by ron021950

CONCERT OF PRAYER

Pray Week 993

62-5“Trust at all times”

For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken. On God rests my salvation and my glory; my mighty rock, my refuge is God. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us. (Psalms 62:5-8)

It has been said that there are no atheists in foxholes. While this maxim may have been formulated during historical world wars, it still has application in today’s society. The point of the saying is that there is a tendency to deny or ignore the existence and presence of God until life circumstances come to bear on us in such a way that we, in our own strength, cannot see a way through. It is not until we are totally without options that we turn to God in desperate prayer.

‘Don’t wander off too far’, the mother calls out to her children as she settles in at the picnic area. They run with excitement to explore their new wooded surroundings. Excitement turns to panic when they suddenly realize that they can no longer see their mother or find their way back.

Many of us, although we do not claim to be atheists, act as if God does not exist or is not present in our lives. Like the children, we run off to experience and take on the challenges of life without the security and presence of God in our hearts. We partake of secret willful sin as if God does not see us. We enjoy prosperity as if it came by our own hand without acknowledging the fact that He is the Almighty God and He alone controls everything. We tackle difficult, problematic situations in our own strength only to become spent and discouraged. Then, like wandering children, we realize we are lost, alone and insecure and it is then that we cry out to God.

Is God an intimate part of your everyday life? Do you acknowledge His presence, love and power every moment of every day? When tempted to sin, do you feel Him nudge you and point out the way of integrity? Do you face each day’s trials with the confidence that comes from a close fellowship and walk with Jesus Christ, with whom nothing is impossible? For nothing will be impossible with God. (Luke 1:37)

If you feel distanced, lost and alone, know that God has not wandered from you. He is ever present and is waiting for you to return. Even if you have wandered far, your Heavenly Father hears you call out to Him and He will embrace you and fellowship with you. Even if you are lost He will find you and lead you to safety.

Resolve to spend time daily in worship and prayer with your Father who will never fail you nor forsake you. Pray continually and acknowledge His presence throughout the day. Draw strength, peace and joy from Him as you face the challenges before you. Trust in Him at all times.

Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O LORD, and you are exalted as head above all. Both riches and honor come from you, and you rule over all. In your hand are power and might, and in your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name. (1 Chronicles 29:11-13)

Posted in Business as Mission, Direction, Hope, Obedience, Relationship, Trials, Trust | Tagged , | Leave a comment

B2B Concert of Prayer – Exalting Vileness # 992

Posted on September 15, 2016 by ron021950

CONCERT OF PRAYER

Pray Week 992

help-lord “Exalting Vileness”

On every side the wicked prowl, as vileness is exalted among the children of man. (Psalm 12:8)

This has been a difficult devotional to write. In researching vileness I have been exposed to images and behaviors that left me feeling like I have waded through a cesspool. I was shocked and ashamed that pictures of our elected officials show up on an internet search of the word ‘vileness’. If you are like me you are exposed every day in the workplace to the vileness that has saturated our society. Like Charleton Heston’s character in the original movie The Omega Man, I cannot wait to return to my safe sanctuary I call home every night.

I recently heard a celebrity being interviewed about her proud decision to have an elective abortion. People cheered when a political convention speaker proudly announced the fact of her elective abortion. More than 58 million children have been murdered in the womb from 1973 to the beginning of 2016 making the mother’s womb the most dangerous place for a baby.

States who defy the law to allow all genders and transgenders to have equal access to restrooms, locker rooms, etc in order to protect our children from sexual predators are being vilified and ‘punished’ economically.

Christians who preach and teach the Truth of God’s Word are called haters and bigots. Christian business owners who refuse to compromise on their Biblical values are being punished economically and even forced to close their doors. Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter! (Isaiah 5:20)

I struggled to write this because as I researched this topic and Scripture reference I became disillusioned and felt hopeless. …when I pondered to understand this, it was troublesome in my sight until I came into the sanctuary of God; (Psalm 73:16-17) Yes, I believe that we are living in the last days. But that is no reason for Christians to lose hope and cease to ‘occupy’ until He returns. Blessed is that servant whose master returns and finds him doing his job. (Matthew 24:46, BSB)

What can we do to occupy until He returns? Keep your homes and your heart and mind a safe sanctuary from the vileness of the world. Filter or block altogether vileness and filth that is piped into our homes through various media channels and devices.

Prayerfully put on the full armor of God every morning before venturing out to school and work. Pray without ceasing for yourself, your family, and your nation.

Vote. Exercise your right and privilege and vote Judeo-Christian Biblical values. Our Supreme Court will be shaped for generations to come by the winner of this election – the lives of millions of children are at stake in addition to Christian freedom to worship and serve the one true God and His Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

May the Holy Spirit keep you safe and free from the vileness of this world. May He inspire you and give you wisdom and courage to stand up and be counted in voting and proclaiming the Truth of His Word.

Posted in Business as Mission, Character, Direction, Encouragement, Holiness, Hope, Morality, Perseverance, Prayer, Priorities, Purpose, Workplace | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

B2B Concert of Prayer – In Good Hands #991

Posted on August 23, 2016 by ron021950

CONCERT OF PRAYER

Pray Week 991

timeshands“In Good Hands”

But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in your hands… (Psalm 31:14-15 , NIV)

A basketball in my hands is worth about $19. A basketball in Michael Jordan’s hands brought multi-million dollar contracts. A baseball in my hands is worth about $6. A baseball that was in a Hall of Famer’s hands can be priceless.  Two fish and 5 loaves of bread in my hands are a couple of fish sandwiches.  Two fish and 5 loaves of bread in God’s hands will feed thousands. Value, worth, security and capability – it all depends upon whose hands.

Many of us are planning a course of action for our lives: a new business venture, a career change, a strategy with long term impact, a new church ministry perhaps. All contain risk.

With our intellect we have weighed the facts carefully, but there always remains that element of risk.  Proverbs 16:9 states that ‘In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.’  This is where the faith rubber meets the road.  Do we waiver in our decision to activate our plans out of fear of making a bad decision?  Do we hesitate, vacillating back and forth between opinions until the time window of opportunity has closed and the plan is no longer viable?

The Word of the Lord says not to fear for He is with us.  He is always present, ready for us to place our times in His hands.  Every decision, every plan, every hope and desire needs to be trustingly placed in the hands of our Savior.

What is it that paralyzes us in fear and prevents us from moving forward? Perhaps we fear failure and ridicule. Our pridefulness can stop us cold. Some fear rejection. In this case our need for acceptance by our peers outweighs our desire to remain obedient to God or to fully trust in Him to lead, guide and provide. Others fear a loss of security. They have their security in their finances, material possessions, and careers. They have lost sight that the only true security is found in their relationship with Jesus Christ.

Nails and wood in my hands might produce a birdhouse. Nails in Jesus Christ’s hands have produced salvation for all of mankind that will accept Him. Our Lord desires to abide in us and be a part of each and every moment of our times in this life as He leads us into eternity with Him. …And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. (Matthew 28:20, NIV)

Resolve today to put your concerns, your plans, your fears, your hopes, your visions and dreams, your families and your relationships in God’s hands. Success and security do depend upon whose hands we are in.  When we abide in Christ and He in us, we are truly in good hands.

So do not fear,  for I am with you; do not be dismayed,  for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand… For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, do not fear; I will help you.  (Isaiah 41:10-13, NIV)

Posted in Business as Mission, Direction, Encouragement, Faith, Hope, Priorities, Trust | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

B2B Concert of Prayer – Responsibility #990

Posted on July 31, 2016 by ron021950

CONCERT OF PRAYER

Pray Week 990

ModestyIsAVirtue“Responsibility”

“Everything is permissible,” but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible,” but not everything is edifying. (1 Corinthians 10:23, Berean Study Bible)

A couple of new ‘old’ subjects have recently resurfaced on social media with strong, passionate opinions expressed from both sides of the issues. The subjects have to deal with appropriate attire in church and whether or not professing Christians should drink alcoholic beverages.

As I read the opinions and referenced articles and blogs it dawned on me that we are approaching the answer to these issues from a self-centered and selfish perspective. To paraphrase the foundational root of the arguments:

“I am not responsible if a man lusts and sins because of the way I dress in church or anywhere else. It is up to him to control himself.”

“I should not be denied a cocktail or a beer just because someone who cannot handle alcoholic beverages may see me or is with me at the time.”

Yes. It is true that everyone is responsible for their own sin. The soul who sins shall die… The righteousness of the righteous shall be upon himself, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon himself. (Ezekiel 18:20)

It is equally true that when we choose our attire for church or any other occasion we do so with an eye as to how others will see us. Will I attract attention and compliments? Do I convey power and confidence with this suit and tie combination? And so on.  Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly. (1 Timothy 2:9, NASB) This Scripture applies equally to men.

Cain asked God a rhetorical question, ‘Am I my brother’s keeper?’ The answer is yes, we are our brothers’ and sisters’ watchman. It is good not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything that causes your brother to stumble. (Romans 14:21)

As Christian’s we are to live a lifestyle that worships God. Worship is not a 30 minute event that only occurs on Sunday mornings. We are to worship and glorify God in all that we do, wherever we do it, twenty-four hours a day and seven days a week.

We are to bring Glory to God in how we dress at the beach, at work, and at church. We are to decide how to act and behave based upon Christ’s love, care and concern for the spiritual well-being for those around us. Jesus has set us free from the letter of the law. That freedom however brings a responsibility to act sacrificially and selflessly in love so that we do not cause a weaker brother or sister to stumble. (see 1 Corinthians 8:10-13)

For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. (Galatians 5:13)

Posted in Business as Mission, Character, Direction, Holiness, Morality, Priorities, Temptation, Workplace, Worship | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

B2B Concert of Prayer – Reading Signs #989

Posted on July 18, 2016 by ron021950

CONCERT OF PRAYER

Pray Week 989

signs“Reading Signs”

But He replied, “When evening comes, you say, ‘The weather will be fair, for the sky is red; and in the morning, ‘It will be stormy today, for the sky is red and threatening.’ You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. (Matthew 16:2-3)

A friend once told me about an ancient curse that says ‘May you live in interesting times’. We are definitely living in interesting times. Whether this is a curse upon us or a blessing depends upon whether you are a born-again child of God, redeemed by Jesus Christ through your profession of faith in Him.

The signs are evident in our daily events. Are you paying attention? Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences. And there will be terrors and great signs from heaven. But before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name’s sake... You will be hated by all for my name’s sake…(Luke 21:10-17)

In addition to terrorism and persecution of Christianity and Judaism we see our society degrading into abject immorality. Interesting times, indeed. But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. (2 Timothy 3:1-5)

Read and interpret the signs in the light of the Word of God. Now is not the time for His children to be fearful. Now is not the time for the Body of Christ, His church to hunker down and hide. “But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap. For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth. But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:34-36)

Now is the time for the church to rise up with heads held high, lifting the banner of the Lord high and boldly proclaiming His Gospel Truth in the power and anointing of His Holy Spirit. Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”(Luke 21:28)

Read and interpret the signs and be ready. “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. As soon as they come out in leaf, you see for yourselves and know that the summer is already near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near.… (Luke 21:29-31)

“But concerning that day and hour no one knows… but the Father only. For as were the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of Man...Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming… Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. (Matthew 24:36-44)

Stay awake and be ready Church. Maranatha, Come Lord Jesus!

Posted in Business as Mission, Encouragement, Faith, Holiness, Hope, Morality, Perseverance, Salvation, Trials | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

B2B Concert of Prayer – Rage Unleashed #988

Posted on July 12, 2016 by ron021950

CONCERT OF PRAYER

Pray Week 988

rageu2“Rage Unleashed”

For they sow the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind. (Hosea 8:7)

A Google search on images associated with the word ‘rage’ reveals a large assortment of video games, movies, and entertainment venues such as professional wrestling. We have truly been sowing seeds of rage in our collective psyche. We have sown to the wind and are now reaping the whirlwind.

If you are like me, a day does not go by without encountering rage. I work in retail and my company, as have so many others, has found it necessary to implement system wide training on how to deal with an active shooter in the workplace.

Rage is encountered in the parking lot, checkout lines, highways, and golf cart paths. Employees and coworkers suddenly give full vent to their anger with the slightest and most benign of provocations. We see the violence played out at political events and ironically in demonstrations against unnecessary violence.

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:12)

I recall the Frank Peretti novels: This Present Darkness and Piercing the Darkness published decades ago that depict the spiritual battle that is occurring all around us. It seems that as our nation has systematically backed away from God, we have backed into the waiting arms of Satan who has unleashed demonic forces that are wreaking havoc in our land. Many mainstream ‘christian’ churches are equally guilty having diluted the Truth of the Word of God for a more politically correct and profitable ‘gospel’.

For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, 2 Timothy 4:3

I pray that the spiritual eyes of the Christian Body of Christ be opened to the reality of the war that rages for the souls of those who have not accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord.

I pray that the Christian Body of Christ (…My people who are called by my name...) will wake up and pray for our nation. I pray that the Lord will raise up prayer warriors that will earnestly seek the face of God and intercede for America.

…if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land. (2 Chronicles 7:14)

May the Holy Spirit quicken and burden your heart to continually pray for peace in our land. May you put on the full armor of God every day to be ready to engage the enemy in the power of the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. May the Lord protect you and be a shield around you. May the Lord bring peace and heal our land.

Posted in Business as Mission, Peace, Prayer, Trials, Workplace | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

B2B Concert of Prayer – Redeem the Time #987

Posted on July 3, 2016 by ron021950

CONCERT OF PRAYER

Pray Week 987

redeem time“Redeem the Time”

Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. – Ephesians 5:15-16

Florida has been called ‘God’s waiting room’. Living and working here near the world’s largest retirement community only reinforces that point. I remember when my uncle retired and moved to Florida. He stated that he was in ‘paradise’. That very night – his first night in his new house – the Lord called him home to true Paradise.

The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty; yet their span is but toil and trouble; they are soon gone, and we fly away. Psalm 90:10

It seems that throughout most of our lives we act and behave as if there will always be a tomorrow here on earth. We spend our time chasing the things and comforts of this life and cast hardly a thought about our eternal future and destiny. Yet that is precisely what the Scriptures exhort and admonish us to do. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. – Matthew 6:33

Jesus taught the parable about the rich fool who lived solely to satisfy his selfish pleasures of this world. But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.” – Luke 12:20-22

I confess that I do look forward to the day that I do not have to work full-time and can enjoy time with my wife, family and friends as well as hobbies and activities without an employer dictating when and how much time I have to do so.

As that day draws closer, the Lord is reminding me to approach it soberly and with wisdom and understanding of His Word. The Lord wants to teach you and me how to redeem the time we have in this life to fulfill His purposes – not our own agendas. So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom. – Psalm 90:12

Redeeming the time is to make the best use of it. ‘Best’ is being about our Father’s business. It is alright to make future plans for your life as long as they are done with a heart that is right before God. The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. – Proverbs 16:9

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. – Proverbs 3:5-6

Only the Lord knows how many more tomorrows you and I have in this life. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me when as yet there was none of them. – Psalm 139:16

My prayer is that the Holy Spirit will teach us to live each moment in His abiding presence. I pray that we will acknowledge Him in all that we do and plan to do. May you redeem the time He has graciously given you for His glory and purpose.

Posted in Business as Mission, Direction, Encouragement, Obedience, Prayer, Priorities, Purpose, Stewardship | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

B2B Concert of Prayer – Power to Overcome #986

Posted on June 27, 2016 by ron021950

CONCERT OF PRAYER

Pray Week 986

conquerors2“Power to Overcome”

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. – Romans 8:37

Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed by life? It seems that the nightly news broadcasts do nothing other than bring me to the point of despair. Then the Word of God speaks peace to me and I know that I am more than a conqueror through Jesus Christ. …in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world. – John 16:33

Through Jesus we have overcome death and have eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. – Romans 6:23

When we fear what is happening around us or fear what might happen in the future we have the power to overcome this fear through the abiding presence of our Lord. …fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41:10

The stressors of life can produce anxiety and anxiousness in us thereby robbing us of peace. A lifestyle of continual prayer gives you power to overcome and conquer anxiousness through the peace of God that will flood your soul. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

…do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:6-7

Some of us choose carnal coping mechanisms in order to deal with life circumstances and issues. These coping mechanisms give rise to addictive behaviors that threaten our physical, emotional, and mental health. Their effects are not private. The adverse effects of substance abuse negatively impact our immediate families, coworkers, and social and church communities. Substance abuse can take the form of illegal drugs and alcohol abuse or seemingly innocuous food addictions. Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin. – Romans 7:24-25

Other carnal coping mechanisms take the form of giving up on caring for oneself and escapism into various forms of media entertainment that can give rise to slothfulness and a degradation of physical health. Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

May the Holy Spirit speak clearly to your heart and empower you by His power and presence to live an overcoming life, glorifying God with your entire being, spirit, mind, body and soul.

Posted in Business as Mission, Character, Encouragement, Obedience, Peace, Prayer, Salvation, Worship | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment