Life in Exile

Today's wisdom comes from a younger source, as I share the courageous speech of a girl to her school class. Standing up against the lure of social media may not bring awards, but it does bring impact.

Is it hard for you to stop and chill? Does guilt keep you from taking naps or changing your work rhythm with the season? Maybe it's time to examine why you do the things you do.

We can't have it both ways, we either will love God or the world. The choice is yours, and the consequences are real.

What does the transformed life look like? Jesus.

Do you struggle living with the weather in your country of service? Learn how to deal with some lessons from those you're called to serve. You'll be glad if you do.

Heading the words of Scripture is not always easy, but when we remember who we are in Christ and the power he gives us, we are better able to walk in the way of the One who walked before us.

How offensive is your church? Is there a clear distinction in her message and that of the world? There should be, as the message of Christ is both a stumbling block and the avenue of hope to the nations.

When trials threaten to block your view, pray and sing, and let God remind you that he is still at work in this world.

Walking in the light means we walk in love toward our brothers and sisters in Christ. Jesus said it first, but John just reiterates it. Light cannot flow where hatred reigns.

Do you know your spiritual gifts? Does your church have a way for you to discover them? Affirmation of a believer's call and gifting is an important role of the local church. 

Do numbers matter? They do when they represent the number of people who will die each day without Christ. What can you do to change that?

To walk as Jesus walked is to know that in obedience to his commands we are made complete in his love. We can know this because his commands are not a burden.

When we add to and critique the work of the Body of Christ, we say that the work of the Spirit is not enough and thus hinder him in our midst. Let's not stifle God's order by adding our own. 

Training new leaders requires giving everyone an opportunity to lead. Not only does this allow for natural leaders to rise to the top, but it also helps everyone learn how to serve. Don't be afraid to share the podium.

John writes his letter so that Christ followers will not sin and be reminded that if we do, we have one who advocates on our behalf. Jesus.

A group made up of servants means that everyone has their needs met. This is the Body of Christ. We are not abandoned and alone in the family of faith.

Sexual temptation is a reality of life and even a lift on mission. Here are some thoughts on how to stand strong against attacks.

What dims the light of Christ from showing through us? Unconfessed sin and pretending you never sin. Don't deny God the right to forgive and cleanse by insisting you have no sin to confess. Get real with God and get right by his forgiveness.

Music is a natural outpouring of relationship with God through Christ. Do you take for granted the melody he's placed in your heart? 

Maintaining hobbies while in ministry enables us to find balance while opening new doors for relationship and witness.

When we trust in Christ, the light of God fills us and allows us to walk in this dark world free from fear. There are benefits to walking in the light. Do you know what they are? Today is a good day to find out!

Did you ever think of church worship services, Bible studies, and fellowship gatherings as a witness to the world? They are. Anytime the Body gathers, we give the world a taste of what our eternity will contain. Our visible fellowship is a blessing.

Does it matter in cross-cultural service whether I share my faith with a man or woman? It can and does. Don't let your freedom in Christ hinder another person from hearing you because they are the opposite sex.

What does the Beloved Disciple have to share with us after walking with Christ? A Lot! Today begin a deep dive into the letters of John and learn to walk in love.

The church is not meant to remain in isolation but to spread among the nations. What part will play in sharing the good news of Christ? Ask God if it's time to get out of your comfort zone and be a scattered seed for his Kingdom.