Edinburgh
"In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness & soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us." ~Titus 2:7-8
LESSON LEARNED: Have you ever had someone tell you that Christianity is a "religion" for whimps? That immediately makes me think: How have you lived so long as someone so uninformed?
Some of the bravest people I know are/were Christians. These committed Christians also understand that Christianity isn't a "religion," it's a relationship. A relationship with THE God of all creation; THE One True God. And when you are in a relationship with THE One True God, you know that He is always with you ~ and He is not only your Salvation, but He is your Strength and your Source of courage to face everything from disaster to all your wishes coming true. Both ends of the spectrum begin and end with the Lord. (Rev. 1:8; 22:13)
Now, knowing that the Lord is always with us, how should we live? God told Joshua to be strong and very courageous . . . and he was about to face a fierce battle! We may not face an enemy army everyday, but we do have an enemy who puts snares in our way to try and trip up our walk of faith. Paul told Titus how to handle those snares (above) and Randy Frazee, in The Heart of the Story, tells us, "He is calling us to live distinctive, wholesome lives that stand out from lives characterized by selfishness, greed and materialism . . . We need to remember that more is unfolding than what we can see . . ."
As Christians, we represent God and His plan in a fallen world. That doesn't mean that we are to be super-pious and dower in our countenance, but be joyful in the journey. Whom do we have to fear if God goes before us in all of our battles? So don't be whimpy in your walk, Christianity ain't for whimps! Be strong and courageous! And ask yourself: Has God failed me, yet?
No? I didn't think so.
Blessings from Ohio . . . Kim<><
Love this post...thanks for sharing...and yes, why is it hard to say "I'm a Christian" as the opposite (to me) would be a liar, thief, fraud, hypocrite...I would much rather have God, directing me..
ReplyDeleteHope that made sense?
~~sending Good Vibrations~~
Thanks Kim for this lovely post. I love the words from Joshua. Be stong and be courageous is important in this world with so many different things to get us sidetracked from building and enjoying the blessings of having a relationship with God.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the scriptures and thoughts; and keep on enjoying your moments!
Hello! I'm following you from Amy's FB message. Beautiful blog.
ReplyDeleteI'm at http://homeschoolblogger.com/ohiosarah
Thank you so much for this. No it isn't for sissy's. My voice is becoming stronger and I am braver each day. Thank you Jesus!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful and so true. This post hits me very hard and so much to glean....I need to re-read it to really let it soak into my being.
ReplyDeleteThank you dear friend for sharing.
Connie
great post Kim! I resently read through Joshua and I loved reading how the Lord was with Joshua and the Isrealites all the time! He gave them victory (as he does to day) over their enemies! I am so thankful for The One True God of the Universe! I know He has my back!
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