July 14, 2022
Read 1 Peter 4:8-11
8 Above all, show sincere love to each other, because love brings about the forgiveness of many sins. 9 Open your homes to each other without complaining. 10 And serve each other according to the gift each person has received, as good managers of God’s diverse gifts. 11 Whoever speaks should do so as those who speak God’s word. Whoever serves should do so from the strength that God furnishes. Do this so that in everything God may be honored through Jesus Christ. To him be honor and power forever and always. Amen.
Good morning! To God be honor and power forever and always!
Perhaps one of the greatest joys of moving into a new community of faith is to meet loving believers who are working together to serve God. Through each of my moves, I have met, served, and loved God’s children. We have been given a marvelous gift that allows us to change and grow as we continue down our path of faith.
Spirit of the Living God,
Fall afresh on me,
Spirit of the Living God,
Fall afresh on me.
Melt me, mold me, use me, fill me.
Spirit of the Living God,
Fall afresh on me.
We have the capacity, when we choose to allow the Holy Spirit to transform us, to prosper as we serve our Lord faithfully, joyfully, and lovingly. May we never grow too cynical or too set in our ways to see the glorious changes that occur through our transformation into the beings that allow us to fulfill God’s plans for us.
Peter spent much of his writing helping believers how to live their lives in Christ. He shared what he learned from his teacher, Jesus, so that all can let their lives mirror Christ in thoughts, words, and actions. Throughout the New Testament, we read and learn how to serve God not out of obligation, but as a response to God’s love for us.
It is easy to lose sight of our destination when we are in the trenches of life where it seems that we are bombarded by the challenges of our hectic, chaotic world. We must slow down and open ourselves to the beauty that lies before us. God provides for us everything we need within the majestic masterpiece that envelops us. When everything seems to be spinning out of control, breathe, relax, and experience the consummate joy that only comes by giving everything to God.
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies, 21 but test everything; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-20 NIV)
Loving and Caring God, Thank You for loving us. We get so busy that we forget to call upon You. Remind us that all we have to do is to reign in our desire to control and turn our lives to You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: What simple joy from God will I give thanks for today?
Fill yourself with peace, love, and joy! Pastor Liz