When the media focuses and closes in on a Christian, hoping to cause them to dishonor God by denying what God's word says, we want to lash out with OUR words at those who act wrongfully toward our brothers and sisters in Christ. But the Bible tells us to not be so surprised by these acts of those who do not follow God. So let us speak in truth by sharing what God's word says. When we begin to lash out our own words and thoughts it can ruin our testimony, but rather, we should just share the word of God. It is more powerful than our thoughts and in it the Holy Spirit can bear witness and reveal who God is and take the focus off of ourselves. Remember, God's word does not return void, the message of Jesus Christ will remain truth for eternity. Here is a relevant message from 1 Peter 4 from the Living bible, which I thought an easier version to understand, however I usually read from the New King James or NIV. Either way, what an uplifting and encouraging message of hope!
7 The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore be earnest, thoughtful men of prayer. 8 Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love makes up for many of your faults.[c]9 Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay for the night.
10 God has given each of you some special abilities; be sure to use them to help each other, passing on to others God’s many kinds of blessings. 11 Are you called to preach? Then preach as though God himself were speaking through you. Are you called to help others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies so that God will be glorified through Jesus Christ—to him be glory and power forever and ever. Amen.
12 Dear friends, don’t be bewildered or surprised when you go through the fiery trials ahead, for this is no strange, unusual thing that is going to happen to you. 13 Instead, be really glad—because these trials will make you partners with Christ in his suffering, and afterwards you will have the wonderful joy of sharing his glory in that coming day when it will be displayed.
14 Be happy if you are cursed and insulted for being a Christian, for when that happens the Spirit of God will come upon you with great glory.[d] 15 Don’t let me hear of your suffering for murdering or stealing or making trouble or being a busybody and prying into other people’s affairs. 16 But it is no shame to suffer for being a Christian. Praise God for the privilege of being in Christ’s family and being called by his wonderful name! 17 For the time has come for judgment, and it must begin first among God’s own children. And if even we who are Christians must be judged, what terrible fate awaits those who have never believed in the Lord? 18 If the righteous are barely saved, what chance will the godless have?
19 So if you are suffering according to God’s will, keep on doing what is right and trust yourself to the God who made you, for he will never fail you.Please feel free to write your thoughts here, I'd love to read them!
No comments:
Post a Comment