Like beauty, excellence is in the eye of the beholder. My criteria for excellence may differ from yours. Therein lays the problem.
Whenever you attempt to define excellence according to man’s wisdom. It is subject to change and interpretation. This inconsistency leads to confusion and unfulfilled expectations. Including relational conflict and poor job performance. Leaving individuals n a quandary as to how to conduct their lives.
The Proverbs 31 woman does not need others to define excellence. She looks for it in God’s Word. She directs the activities of her household, and never does she indulge in laziness. Proverbs 31:27
When people look at you and your life. Do they see light or darkness? Holiness or evil? Jesus or satan? Yes, it is that black and white!
Unfortunately, many Christians live in the gray zone of compromise. Unable to keep their eyes on Jesus, they are vulnerable to satan’s deceptive charm.
Can you remember when you first became a believer? It was like Christmas morning, and Santa had brought you the Gift.
The Gift you prayed for each night before falling asleep.
In your letter to Santa you wrote Gift with gigantic capital letters.
Circling with red pen the picture of Gift in the toy catalogue hidden under your bed.
Your heart skipped a beat each time you thought about the Gift.
Believing life without the Gift would be unbearable.
Your first thought each morning and your last thought each night was about the Gift.
Playing only with the Gift.
But as time went by your enthusiasm subsided. You played with the Gift less often. The Gift no longer preoccupied your thoughts. Soon you were playing with other toys, even toys from previous Christmases.
So what goes wrong? Many churches do not disciple baby believers. A single seeker friendly message on Sunday morning is not enough. It is dangerous and irresponsible.
Babies believers cannot fend for themselves!
Could it be many pastors prefer baby believers? It is much easier to lead others when they do not question or disagree with YOUR rules and belief system.
Not our heavenly Father! The Lord expects His babies to become spiritually mature believers. Having their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. Hebrews 5:14
Knowing not to trust every spirit. Instead, examine them carefully to determine if they come from God. 1 John 4:1
Spiritually mature believers who do not follow the advice of the wicked. Or take the path of sinners. Or join a group of mockers! Instead, his delight is in the Lord’s instruction, and he meditates on it day and night. Psalm 1:1-2
Individuals who imitate Christ in both word and deed. Boldly proclaiming, “Love sincerely. Hate evil. Hold on to what is good. Be devoted to each other like a loving family. Excel in showing respect for each other.
Don’t be lazy in showing your devotion. Use your energy to serve the Lord.
Be happy in your confidence, be patient in trouble and pray continually. Share what you have with God’s people who are in need. Be hospitable.
Bless those who persecute you. Bless them and don’t curse them.
Be happy with those who are happy. Be sad with those who are sad. Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be arrogant but be friendly to humble people. Don’t think that you are smarter than you really are. Don’t pay people back with evil for the evil they do to you.
Focus your thoughts on those things that are considered noble. As much as it is possible, live in peace with everyone. Don’t take revenge. Instead, let God’s anger take care of it.
If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him a drink. If you do this, you will make him feel guilty and ashamed. Don’t let evil conquer you but conquer evil with good” Romans 12:9-21
As a believer you are held to a higher standard. God is not mocked. His gift of salvation is a treasure He expects you to honor.
Be a VOICE shouting into the wilderness.
CHRIST is returning!
letsloveothers 