Teens brains are like a scrambled egg with cheese. There’s a full body, mind, spirit in them. Feeding them an egg brings a wealth of value. There’s a heavy load of protein with the addition of the cheese protein. The color of scrambled eggs is orange / yellow like the sun. It does not come together in form until it is whisked by a fork. It needs tending kind of like a poke here and poke there to get it to the right consistency. We are all in need of a poke adult, teen and child!
According to incredibleegg.org, “INCREDIBLY NUTRITIOUS – Eggs are an all-natural, nutrient dense source of high-quality protein. Each large egg contains six grams of protein and is a good or excellent source of eight essential nutrients all for just 70 calories. Because of their nutrient content, eggs can play a role in weight management, muscle strength, brain function, eye health and more.”
What nutritional wonder is found in scrambled eggs! In the end, the scrambled egg can be great nourishment for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Its components provide nutritional power packed energy for the brain and body!
Eating this awesome oval shaped egg brings solid wisdom and great physical strength, growth that will serve the teen well both today and into the future.
I have heard an eggs’ structure is compared to the Father, Son ( Jesus), and Holy Spirit. The shell is the outward appearance, perhaps like Jesus, the clear egg white is representative of the Holy Spirit, it provides the gel that keeps things together, and the orange yolk is like the sun, the Father God, the Creator, all things.
Matthew 28:18-20 MSG Jesus, undeterred, went right ahead and gave his charge: “God authorized and commanded me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I’ll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age.”
So the next time you enjoy scrambled eggs ponder this, as a teen, adult or child; those eggs are a gift from the Source of all great things! Eat and be made strong in Him!
If you are a parent, share the gift of an egg with your child today!
Storms will rage, but Jesus calms the storm. We must believe He can. His ways are not our ways! Don’t look to the left or right, listen for the truth in the Word of God!
Luke 8: 22 One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they got into a boat and started out. 23 As they sailed across, Jesus settled down for a nap. But soon a fierce storm came down on the lake. The boat was filling with water, and they were in real danger. 24 The disciples went and woke him up, shouting, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!” When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and the raging waves. Suddenly the storm stopped and all was calm. 25 Then he asked them, “Where is your faith?”The disciples were terrified and amazed. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “When he gives a command, even the wind and waves obey him!”
We can go through hardship and feel at our breaking point. We can feel the restless sea under our feet. Our eyes can’t see the future but we have to step out in faith and trust the One who existed from the beginning and will live in eternity. Faith will rise up in us when we believe He can calm the storms.
“Peace, Be Still” by the Belonging (featuring Lauren Daigle) shares the importance of stepping out in faith and trusting God!
Breaking free of toxic environments and people can give us a chance to start again. Freedom is within our grasp, reach out to Jesus! Whether you are a parent, friend, or family member, watching those you love in stormy times can be heartbreaking. We must cast all our cares on Him for He cares for you and your loved one.
1 Peter 5: 5 -11 5b“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”6 So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. 7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 9 Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers[b] all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering you are.10 In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation. 11 All power to him forever! Amen.
Ask for Him to show you the path. Let the waves wash away the gritty sand and set your feet on the Rock! His foundation stands firm.
Sheep are amazing creatures! They are cuddly cute as a lamb. They are sturdy in structure, they provide wool to bring warmth on a winters day. They follow other sheep blindly at times seeking a safe well fed environment.
However, sheep are also stubborn, don’t seek the easiest path, follow the leader, even if a fellow sheep goes near a cliff. They need a good shepherd to guide them. They need a poke by the shepherds staff to redirect their steps. They can run in fear and get lost.
Humans are no different! We are stubborn, don’t seek the best path, can be led to foolishness, in fear, we can take a cliff dive without meaning too.
John 10:1-16 NLT “I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber! [2] But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. [3] The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. [4] After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice. [5] They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.” [6] Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn’t understand what he meant, [7] so he explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. [8] All who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. [9] Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. [10] The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.
The Lord is a Good Shepherd! Do not be afraid, He is our God! He wants you to lean into Him above all the noise! He is Almighty God!
He is the maker of heaven and earth ! The earth is His footstool! He wants all His children to come to Him and be saved!
Isaiah 41:10 NLT Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
He gives His children multiple chances to seek His face. He is the Ancient of Days! He is the Alpha and Omega!!
Ancient Gates is a powerful song by Brooke Ligertwood. The lyrics speak of His greatness!
Ancient Gates by Brooke Ligertwood
My pastor shared this week about this concept, He is our Shepherd, He wants us to enter His gates so we can be safe with Him. Yes, our Shepherd may need to discipline our stupidity and foolish impulsive choices. However, our Shepherd loves us and sees His children.
John 10:11-16 [11] “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. [12] A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. [13] The hired hand runs away because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep. [14] “I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, [15] just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. [16] I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd.
Despite the multiple distractions the world or others bring, praise Him in the hills and valleys. Praise for Him pushes back the darkness!!! Enter His gate and be changed for His plans. So run to Him, He is ready with open arms to lead His sheep ( He is a good, good Shepherd)!
Fear destroys not only the one who is afraid but others in the relationship. Fear sets a fire of anxiety, anger, and impulsive words that can’t be taken back.
God calls us to be self-controlled and cast out all fear. There are many scriptures describing the need to trust God over fear, here are three examples.
Exodus 14:13-14,16-17 NLT But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the LORD rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. [14] The LORD himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”
Isaiah 66:5 NLT Hear this message from the LORD, all you who tremble at his words: “Your own people hate you and throw you out for being loyal to my name. ‘Let the LORD be honored!’ they scoff. ‘Be joyful in him!’ But they will be put to shame.
1 John 4:18-19 NLT Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love. [19] We love each other because he loved us first.
God calls us to be strong and courageous and trust Him. We need His strength to endure life’s challenges!
Daniel 10:19 NLT “Don’t be afraid,” he said, “for you are very precious to God. Peace! Be encouraged! Be strong!” As he spoke these words to me, I suddenly felt stronger and said to him, “Please speak to me, my lord, for you have strengthened me.”
God calls us to not live in fear and timidity, but live with a sound mind and self control that comes as a reward for our faith in God!
2 Timothy 1:7 NLT For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
So why do we let fear rule our emotions and destroy our relationships? It’s because we don’t trust God, or we allow disappointment from past experiences to color our feelings toward another person. We allow preconceived notions the active projection onto another person. This destroys not just the person in fear, but many others through a domino effect.
Who wins when we let fear reign? The devil and his schemes cause destruction and we loose our faith and trust in God. This leads to our anxiety and anger emotions tumbling out in words that hurt instead of sharing compassion and the love of Christ.
What must we do when words are hurled by others due to fear? First, we must remember the devil wants to destroy families and relationships that are wanting to represent God. Second, we ask God to help us understand the other person, pray for a revelation of their perspective, third, we must ask God to help us forgive the hurtful words. Fourth, we may need to step back from the person, take a walk, seek wisdom from the Bible. Fifth, we must give grace and mercy to a fellow sinner for making a mistake. ( Hopefully there is repentance in the heart of the offender, this is the only way the relationship can be restored).
There are times when we may need to walk away from another person. Seek Gods wisdom for this!
Psalm 27:1-14 MSG Light, space, zest- that’s GOD! So, with him on my side I’m fearless, afraid of no one and nothing. [2] When vandal hordes ride down ready to eat me alive, Those bullies and toughs fall flat on their faces. [3] When besieged, I’m calm as a baby. When all hell breaks loose, I’m collected and cool. [4] I’m asking GOD for one thing, only one thing: To live with him in his house my whole life long. I’ll contemplate his beauty; I’ll study at his feet. [5] That’s the only quiet, secure place in a noisy world, The perfect getaway, far from the buzz of traffic. [6] God holds me head and shoulders above all who try to pull me down. I’m headed for his place to offer anthems that will raise the roof! Already I’m singing God-songs; I’m making music to GOD. [7-8] Listen, GOD, I’m calling at the top of my lungs: “Be good to me! Answer me!” When my heart whispered, “Seek God,” my whole being replied, “I’m seeking him!” Don’t hide from me now! [9-10] You’ve always been right there for me; don’t turn your back on me now. Don’t throw me out, don’t abandon me; you’ve always kept the door open. My father and mother walked out and left me, but GOD took me in. [11-12] Point me down your highway, GOD; direct me along a well-lighted street; show my enemies whose side you’re on. Don’t throw me to the dogs, those liars who are out to get me, filling the air with their threats. [13-14] I’m sure now I’ll see God’s goodness in the exuberant earth. Stay with GOD! Take heart. Don’t quit. I’ll say it again: Stay with GOD.
Tremble is an amazing song by Mosaic MSC from years ago, it reminds you where to find peace, it’s with Jesus. In Jesus Name we can push back the darkness. He makes the darkness tremble and He silences fear!
Tremble by Mosaic MSC
Out of the ashes of attempted destruction from fear, there can be restoration and new life! Don’t quit! Stay with God! He will never abandon you!
Light, it is the thing that illuminates our path. It brightens our day. It provides a vision through the darkness. Light, it is what the Lord brings to us when we’re in the midst of storms and struggles. Light, it is what we need, today, in this dark world, more than anything else. Scripture tells us that He, the Lord, Jesus, is a light for our path. It is the guidance we need when things seem chaotic and insecure.
When God created the world and everything in it, He started with light. He created light on the first day.
Genesis 1:2-5 AMP The earth was formless and void or a waste and emptiness, and darkness was upon the face of the deep [primeval ocean that covered the unformed earth]. The Spirit of God was moving (hovering, brooding) over the face of the waters. [3] And God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. [4] God saw that the light was good (pleasing, useful) and He affirmed and sustained it; and God separated the light [distinguishing it] from the darkness. [5] And God called the light day, and the darkness He called night. And there was evening and there was morning, one day.
Light came from Him! He separated it from the darkness. He had plans from the beginning of time for this amazing wonder on the earth and within us!
Genesis 1:14-18 AMP Then God said, “Let there be light-bearers (sun, moon, stars) in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night, and let them be useful for signs (tokens) [of God’s provident care], and for marking seasons, days, and years; [15] and let them be useful as lights in the expanse of the heavens to provide light on the earth”; and it was so, [just as He commanded]. [16] God made the two great lights—the greater light (the sun) to rule the day, and the lesser light (the moon) to rule the night; He made the [galaxies of] stars also [that is, all the amazing wonders in the heavens]. [17] God placed them in the expanse of the heavens to provide light upon the earth, [18] to rule over the day and the night, and to separate the light from the darkness; and God saw that it was good and He affirmed and sustained it.
With Gods’ direction, Moses lead the people of Israel through the desert wilderness. It was God’s pillar of smoke, and the light that directed their path.
God guided His people as explained in Nehemiah, God sustained them.
Nehemiah 9:11-12 AMP You divided the sea before them, So that they passed through the midst of the sea on dry land; You hurled their pursuers into the depths, Like a stone into mighty and raging waters. [12] And with a pillar of cloud You led them by day, And with a pillar of fire by night To light the way for them In which they were to go.
We also must walk in the Light despite the darkness seeming to swirl around us! Do not forget to praise in the storms, it can push away depression, anxiety and fear.
Psalm 56:10-13 AMP In God, whose word I praise, In the LORD, whose word I praise, [11] In God have I put my trust and confident reliance; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me? [12] Your vows are binding upon me, O God; I will give thank offerings to You. [13] For You have rescued my soul from death, Yes, and my feet from stumbling, So that I may walk before God In the light of life.
Choosing to follow the Creator of Light by following His promises can seem impossible but nothing is impossible with God!
Psalm 112:4 AMP Light arises in the darkness for the upright; He is gracious and compassionate and righteous (upright—in right standing with God).
Seeking the Lord at these times is mandatory! He will light your path and bring hope in the darkness that is internal and eternal when we trust in Him alone. Jesus is the Prince of Peace!
Isaiah 42:16 AMP I will lead the blind by a way they do not know; I will guide them in paths that they do not know. I will make darkness into light before them And rugged places into plains. These things I will do [for them], And I will not leave them abandoned or undone.”
He wants our free will choice for His plans, we were created to make our own personal decision. He loves us and wants us to choose Him.
He tells us in Isaiah 58 what will be our reward:
Isaiah 58:8-12 AMP Then your light will break out like the dawn, And your healing (restoration, new life) will quickly spring forth; Your righteousness will go before you [leading you to peace and prosperity], The glory of the LORD will be your rear guard. [9] Then you will call, and the LORD will answer; You will cry for help, and He will say, ‘Here I am.’ If you take away from your midst the yoke [of oppression], The finger pointed in scorn [toward the oppressed or the godly], and [every form of] wicked (sinful, unjust) speech, [10] And if you offer yourself to [assist] the hungry And satisfy the need of the afflicted, Then your light will rise in darkness And your gloom will become like midday. [11] And the LORD will continually guide you, And satisfy your soul in scorched and dry places, And give strength to your bones; And you will be like a watered garden, And like a spring of water whose waters do not fail. [12] And your people will rebuild the ancient ruins; You will raise up and restore the age-old foundations [of buildings that have been laid waste]; You will be called Repairer of the Breach, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.
Let Him repair and restore your life bringing more of His Light to the world!
John 8:12 AMP Once more Jesus addressed the crowd. He said, “I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.”
What does it mean to be baptized in Jesus Christ?
Romans 6:3-5 MSG That’s what baptism into the life of Jesus means. When we are lowered into the water, it is like the burial of Jesus; when we are raised up out of the water, it is like the resurrection of Jesus. Each of us is raised into a light-filled world by our Father so that we can see where we’re going in our new grace-sovereign country.
How can we bring His Light to others? It is not about us it is about bringing hope to others about Him!
2 Corinthians 4:5-6 MSG Remember, our Message is not about ourselves; we’re proclaiming Jesus Christ, the Master. All we are is messengers, errand runners from Jesus for you. It started when God said, “Light up the darkness!” and our lives filled up with light as we saw and understood God in the face of Christ, all bright and beautiful.
Our human minds can’t fully grasp how Jesus may use our life story!
1 John 1:7 AMPC But if we [really] are living and walking in the Light, as He [Himself] is in the Light, we have [true, unbroken] fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses (removes) us from all sin and guilt [keeps us cleansed from sin in all its forms and manifestations].
Walk in the Light, find hope in His promises, ask Him to direct your steps to His sisters and brothers, , there is freedom in His Arms. Then shine your Light for all to see Him!
Father, I am a sinner in need of Your saving grace and mercy! Please forgive me for my selfish ways, my impulsive choices that have led to death. I want new life in your love, Jesus! I repent ( turn away) from the sins that have held me captive to the enemy___________. Forgive me of my sins. Fill my life with you, Jesus! I place my life in Your hands! I give you permission to guide my path! Thank you Jesus! I want your Light to shine through me! Amen!
Do you remember the times in your youth you needed to stay the course? Tasks to be conquered may be learning to tie your shoes, how to meet new friends, getting up after you have fallen down, learning how to slide as you ran the bases in a school softball game.
The tasks increased in complication the older you got, being able to navigate a new school, finding new friends, standing your ground when others tempt you with reckless choices.
No matter the age, life is full of choices for the future. Listening to the voice of truth, Jesus, can propel you into new trajectories. Flying high as an eagle is better than living in a pig pen of regret, shame snd impulsive choices that block the Lords plans. ( Luke 15: 11-32)
Anything worthwhile takes blood, sweat and tears! Who better to provide the encouragement than sticking with the One who created you.
Remembering our need to stay connected to our best friend, Jesus, regardless of the comments from others can be frightening. Do you want to go with the decisions of others or take steps into the future alone temporarily in order to obtain the goals God has for your life?
There will always be days, even moments to ponder our next steps. Who will have the last word in your life?
Who do you want to direct to greater purpose; your kids, friends, family, or even a total stranger? Let go and let God!
Psalm 119:41-48 MSG Let your love, GOD, shape my life with salvation, exactly as you promised; Then I’ll be able to stand up to mockery because I trusted your Word. Don’t ever deprive me of truth, not ever- your commandments are what I depend on. Oh, I’ll guard with my life what you’ve revealed to me, guard it now, guard it ever; And I’ll stride freely through wide open spaces as I look for your truth and your wisdom; Then I’ll tell the world what I find, speak out boldly in public, unembarrassed. I cherish your commandments-oh, how I love them!- relishing every fragment of your counsel.
His counsel trumps all other wisdom. He is for us not against us! He sees the full picture of our life. Guard your life so you can run in open spaces with joy!
Psalm 119:33-40 MSG GOD, teach me lessons for living so I can stay the course. Give me insight so I can do what you tell me- my whole life one long, obedient response. Guide me down the road of your commandments; I love traveling this freeway! Give me a bent for your words of wisdom, and not for piling up loot. Divert my eyes from toys and trinkets, invigorate me on the pilgrim way. Affirm your promises to me- promises made to all who fear you. Deflect the harsh words of my critics- but what you say is always so good. See how hungry I am for your counsel; preserve my life through your righteous ways!
Taking the road less travelled can lead to a greater future. Trust is built when we see His hand at work reflecting on His goodness in the past gives us hope to trust in the future!
Why do we struggle with sin? Is it others who lead our choices or is it a battle within? What a tug of war between good and evil desires. It does not matter our skin color, it is a human condition!
I heard on the radio recently the best definition for the reason we sin. “We sin or make choices against the Lords’ ways because at the time is seems fun, and in our sin nature we want to rebel against the Lord God who created us. We want to be our own God!”
Wow, this is the truth, we struggle with sin because we want to be our own God!!! Sins can be impulsive, prideful, false appearances, murder, adultery, jealousy, anger, lies, the snarky need for the last word , disrespect of others; even parents for their children or children for parents. It can be a known sin or a hidden sin.
However, we must remember God sees all things and wants us to turn from all unrighteousness and return to Him, we must verbally call on the Lord Jesus to forgive us of our sin and guide us to a new mind, life and future.
If we don’t submit fully to the Lord we cannot resist the devil and we will not have the authority of Christ to protect us from the devil and his attempts.
Quarrels and fights within our family, in community, and the world come from evil desires, as James 4 relates, we all have a war within us. This is a reflection of our sin nature.
James 4:1-10 MSG Where do you think all these appalling wars and quarrels come from? Do you think they just happen? Think again. They come about because you want your own way, and fight for it deep inside yourselves. You lust for what you don’t have and are willing to kill to get it. You want what isn’t yours and will risk violence to get your hands on it. [2-3] You wouldn’t think of just asking God for it, would you? And why not? Because you know you’d be asking for what you have no right to. You’re spoiled children, each wanting your own way.
The Word of God has the potential to bring new life, new hope, and grace to the humble.
[4-6] You’re cheating on God. If all you want is your own way, flirting with the world every chance you get, you end up enemies of God and his way. And do you suppose God doesn’t care? The proverb has it that “he’s a fiercely jealous lover.” And what he gives in love is far better than anything else you’ll find. It’s common knowledge that “God goes against the willful proud; God gives grace to the willing humble.”
I have had my eyes opened to my own areas of sin: pride, gossip, bitterness, and allowing fear of the future rule my mind.I repent today and ask the Lord to purge me of these tendencies. The work to remove my tendencies may take a while but having the lover of my soul, the Holy Spirit direction will complete His work when I allow it!
How about you, do you need to bend your knee and ask the Lord to chip away destructive habits? Is your loyalty divided between God and the world? We are all sinners, tears can bring cleansing but letting God transform you brings so much more.
[7-10] So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet yes to God and he’ll be there in no time. Quit dabbling in sin. Purify your inner life. Quit playing the field. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out. The fun and games are over. Get serious, really serious. Get down on your knees before the Master; it’s the only way you’ll get on your feet.
Look up James 4, it is filled with wisdom for living. All these steps are relevant for today. If you don’t have your own Bible consider these resources: Youversion Bible App or The website, Biblegateway.com.
It has to be an all-in decision, submit all your ways to the Lord, or you will remain stuck in past cycles of destruction. Just as the story of Sodom and Gomorrah, (Genesis 19) the wife of Lot looked back at the fiery town even though she was told to look forward to a new future, but she turned into a pillar of salt.
Looking back on life’s regrets does not bring hope. Looking at our future through the eyes of the Lord, brings strength, hope, and direction for a new trajectory.
So humble yourself before the Lord and let Him work from the inside out. Changing patterns of sin takes time but today is a great day to start a new habit.
Prayer: Father God, you are the Lord of my life, I repent for ——- and I ask Lord that you would forgive me of placing my own self as God. Free me from my sin, cleanse me of all unGodly behavior, I know you are a jealous God who loves me and wants me to seek You first. I want more of you, I want Jesus to fill my heart and soul, He is my Savior, change me from the inside out. I want you to be the authority in my life Father! I humbly submit to you alone, Amen!
Titus 2:11-15 NLT For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. [12] And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, [13] while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed. [14] He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds. [15] You must teach these things and encourage the believers to do them. You have the authority to correct them when necessary, so don’t let anyone disregard what you say.
Maverick City has a powerful song, God problems! What meaningful lyrics, enjoy!
There was a question brought to me that asked “What do you find difficult that Jesus teaches to stand by or follow?
This question made me think, because often as humans, even if we are Christian, we sin all the time and follow worldly desires, even while reading the Bible and Jesus’ teachings.
One thing I find very difficult is following Bible teachings while also going and doing what you say and know is wrong. It can also be hard to believe some of the Lord’s teachings and agree with them or understand them. One teaching that I find difficult to understand or agree with is loving your enemies.
Now growing up most of us are told to love our enemies and forgive them because Jesus does the same thing for us. But as a teenager that can be very hard, people are backstabbing and cruel, and even though we all make mistakes, some just seem like they aren’t worth forgiving. People gossip, say rude things, judge each other, do things to make you feel bad, or not trust them.
While we can judge someone else for doing that, we have probably done the same thing to Jesus. You may be wondering how do we forgive the people we hate? The Bible tells us to forgive those we hate, but it can be hard.
In the Bible “Luke 6:27,28, 35” it summarizes that: 1) we should love our enemies and bless people who hurt us or mistreat us. We must love and pray for our enemies. Jesus calls us to pray for those who we hate and to love them. Kill them with kindness.
2) Another thing it says is to pray for those who do us dirty. In verse 35 it explains to do good to our enemies and lend to them. Kind of like the verse to treat others how you want to be treated. But it’s true, even if we have been told that our whole life.
Jesus rewards those who do as he says and treats everyone with love and kindness, even when it’s hard.
I think one thing we have to remember is how much Jesus loves us and did for us, and remember we are sinners as well. We also need to remind ourselves that Jesus did the same for all of us, and we are all created by him.
The people we love, the people we hate, every nation, and every creation was made by God and we need to respect the Lords creation. Genesis 2:15 talks about how we are to love and care for Gods creation, not destroy it. As it may be implying to just nature and earth, it is implying to humans as well, because we are Gods creation too.
From my perspective, I’ve been hurt or stabbed in the back by people, but I have probably also done the same, and the same way I can feel about other people, they can also feel about me. I believe this can draw a lot of people away from God, “who wants to love their enemies when we have every reason to hate them and get revenge?”
We can never do this on our own with our sinly nature, we need to ask for Gods help and strength. And put the past behind us or our thoughts of anything to harm another human whether or not we want to.
– Anonymous
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Wisdom comes from the Holy Spirit, when we say aloud “I am a sinner needing Jesus to save me from my sin, He brings grace and mercy! I believe in Jesus! When we declare we want the Lord to be the authority in our life and ask the Holy Spirit to pour His wisdom into our minds, hearts, and souls. We need you Father, Son, and Holy Spirit!” We can be filled with wisdom despite our age.
Thank you Jesus for your love, wisdom, and guidance! Amen!
Our world is unstable. There are forces hell bent on destroying people and the chosen ones of God, Israel. This has been the case since the beginning of time. The spiritual warfare has become obvious as we look at the events in Israel.
In Psalm 83, war against Gods’ chosen was described. Time has not changed things, however the words expressed remind us that the Lord will have the last word.
Psalm 83:1-4,12-18 NLT O God, do not be silent! Do not be deaf. Do not be quiet, O God. [2] Don’t you hear the uproar of your enemies? Don’t you see that your arrogant enemies are rising up? [3] They devise crafty schemes against your people; they conspire against your precious ones. [4] “Come,” they say, “let us wipe out Israel as a nation. We will destroy the very memory of its existence.” [12] for they said, “Let us seize for our own use these pasturelands of God!” [13] O my God, scatter them like tumbleweed, like chaff before the wind! [14] As a fire burns a forest and as a flame sets mountains ablaze, [15] chase them with your fierce storm; terrify them with your tempest. [16] Utterly disgrace them until they submit to your name, O LORD. [17] Let them be ashamed and terrified forever. Let them die in disgrace. [18] Then they will learn that you alone are called the LORD, that you alone are the Most High, supreme over all the earth.
God created each person to make a difference, to love and be loved. Sometimes it can feel as if there is only evil in this world. The enemy wants to steal, kill and destroy God’s children.
John 10:6-16 NLT Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn’t understand what he meant, [7] so he explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. [8] All who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. [9] Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. [10] The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. [11] “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. [12] A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. [13] The hired hand runs away because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep. [14] “I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, [15] just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. [16] I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd.
So what can we do in action at this time? We can love others as God loves us. We can pray for Israel and all people who are persecuted for loving their Creator God and His promises.
1 John 4:7-19 MSG My beloved friends, let us continue to love each other since love comes from God. Everyone who loves is born of God and experiences a relationship with God. The person who refuses to love doesn’t know the first thing about God, because God is love-so you can’t know him if you don’t love. This is how God showed his love for us: God sent his only Son into the world so we might live through him. This is the kind of love we are talking about-not that we once upon a time loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to clear away our sins and the damage they’ve done to our relationship with God. [11-12] My dear, dear friends, if God loved us like this, we certainly ought to love each other. No one has seen God, ever. But if we love one another, God dwells deeply within us, and his love becomes complete in us-perfect love! [13-16] This is how we know we’re living steadily and deeply in him, and he in us: He’s given us life from his life, from his very own Spirit. Also, we’ve seen for ourselves and continue to state openly that the Father sent his Son as Savior of the world. Everyone who confesses that Jesus is God’s Son participates continuously in an intimate relationship with God. We know it so well, we’ve embraced it heart and soul, this love that comes from God. [17-18] God is love. When we take up permanent residence in a life of love, we live in God and God lives in us. This way, love has the run of the house, becomes at home and mature in us, so that we’re free of worry on Judgment Day-our standing in the world is identical with Christ’s. There is no room in love for fear. Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life-fear of death, fear of judgment-is one not yet fully formed in love. [19] We, though, are going to love-love and be loved. First we were loved, now we love. He loved us first.
God loves His people, first the People of Israel, then the rest of us, Gentiles, were blessed with His love and inheritance.
Jeremiah 31:7 AMP For thus says the LORD, “Sing aloud with gladness for Jacob, And shout for the first and foremost of the nations [the chosen people, Israel]; Proclaim, give praise and say, ‘O LORD save Your people, The remnant of Israel!’
The Lord alone is the Most High, supreme over all the earth!
God is love and when we love like Him the world will be at peace.
Isaiah 40:1 ASV Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God.
What is harmony? Merriam-Websters’ dictionary defines harmony as agreement, in one accord, tranquility. It is also a tuneful sound, melody.
In the 60s, “give peace a chance” was a common slogan. Somehow the struggle continues in 2023 and yet we still find ourselves with discord and conflict. It’s not only a war of nations but a war of words.
Being human, we have our own opinions on life, respect, politics and maybe even love. The other person is broken and perhaps as hard headed as you.
We can let our pride over being right get in the way of conflict resolution. We can close our eyes to obvious self destructive words or actions we may speak or receive from another. We can have past patterns of relationships cause unhealthy insight. We can choose to remain stuck in our opinions and sadly miss opportunities for growth in love, in our faith in God, in the potential for a better community of truth.
Lately, I find myself seeking wisdom from the Bible for healthy relationships. This is one of the best, concise instructions for harmony.
Scripture Tools to apply in all relationships:
Romans 12:9-18 NLT Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. [10] Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. [11] Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. [12] Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. [13] When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. [14] Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them. [15] Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. [16] Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all! [17] Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. [18] Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.
May you ponder on how you may reflect these examples in your relationships and community and as a result live in more harmony as you grow more in love like Jesus.
Be humble and willing to live as peacefully as possible. Give the situation or person (in prayer) to God.
Matthew 6:8 NLT Don’t be like them, for your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him!
The words and actions we spread to others matter to either build up and encourage or to curse and tear down another human, created in the image of God. Choose wisely!We will all be held accountable for the words we speak and the actions we give.
James 3:7-18 MSG This is scary: You can tame a tiger, but you can’t tame a tongue—it’s never been done. The tongue runs wild, a wanton killer. With our tongues we bless God our Father; with the same tongues we curse the very men and women he made in his image. Curses and blessings out of the same mouth! [10-12] My friends, this can’t go on. A spring doesn’t gush fresh water one day and brackish the next, does it? Apple trees don’t bear strawberries, do they? Raspberry bushes don’t bear apples, do they? You’re not going to dip into a polluted mud hole and get a cup of clear, cool water, are you? [13-16] Do you want to be counted wise, to build a reputation for wisdom? Here’s what you do: Live well, live wisely, live humbly. It’s the way you live, not the way you talk, that counts. Mean-spirited ambition isn’t wisdom. Boasting that you are wise isn’t wisdom. Twisting the truth to make yourselves sound wise isn’t wisdom. It’s the furthest thing from wisdom—it’s animal cunning, devilish plotting. Whenever you’re trying to look better than others or get the better of others, things fall apart and everyone ends up at the others’ throats. [17-18] Real wisdom, God’s wisdom, begins with a holy life and is characterized by getting along with others. It is gentle and reasonable, overflowing with mercy and blessings, not hot one day and cold the next, not two-faced. You can develop a healthy, robust community that lives right with God and enjoy its results only if you do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor.
Don’t be afraid to make the necessary changes as you trust God with the challenges in your life. Some times we have to speak other times we have to leave and let God bring truth to the situation. He sees you and the conflicts! He is for you!
Father God, we pray for Your perfect harmony in our own lives and with those whose lives intersect our lives. We want to live lives of musical tranquility and bring more of Your Light to the world. It can begin with each of us!
Proverbs 29:25 NLT Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the LORD means safety.
Inspiring Light Through the Cracks 