Whatever obstacles block our path to God, God is greater than those. Jesus assured His disciples: “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
There’s nothing wrong with nostalgia, and it’s helpful to remember the mistakes we’ve made in the past. But life doesn’t move backward, and if we’re Christians, it’s important that we give most of our attention to what is ahead of us.
Let’s be mindful of God’s forgiving nature. He is not a reluctant forgiver who must be begged to pardon us against His will, but rather a Father who finds joy in the restoration of His children. Let’s be encouraged by the thought of His forgiveness.
Jesus was clear when He said, “If you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Mt. 6:15). It’s only fair that we should not expect God to forgive us if we’ve been unwilling to forgive others.
Those in Christ are those “who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” We have a glorious hope of victory over the devil, but it is only in God. May we learn to trust Him more completely!
This week, let’s study the Lord’s authority over His churches — and the dire consequences if we disregard His will. Let’s make sure that being “of Christ” (both individually and collectively) is more than a matter of mere words.
Young people are not “second-class citizens” in the kingdom of God. When they set for us an example “in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity,” let’s express our appreciation for their godliness. We are fortunate to have them!
For most people, the more important an activity is, the more powerfully they would like to be motivated. Now think: if obedience to Christ is the most important activity in life, what would be the most powerful motivation to engage in that activity?
When we let the “light” we’ve learned from God’s word shine into our heart and illuminate what is really there, we gain insight into how God sees us. With that insight, we can then make changes for the better. This is what “repentance” is all about.
When our hearts possess the quality of modesty, we will dress modestly, assuming our consciences are not misinformed on the subject. But while the condition of the heart is the primary consideration, both inner and outer modesty are important.
