Just some Thoughts

I have been noticing many of the things that I do, that I hate seeing other people do.  Things that make that person look silly, stupid, and straight prideful.  And also things that are hurtful to others…sometimes the things that make someone laugh are simultaneously striking a chord deep within them.  A chord that reverberates feelings of discontentment.  This discontentment can cause feelings that pull us away from God.  Are my thoughtless actions not only damaging others, but also damaging their relationship with God?

I trust that the Lord has a plan that He will be able to bring to fruition despite my sinful nature - in fact I believe He has already taken my sinful nature (and yours) into account.  That doesn't mean He likes it, but He is not surprised by it.  His plans will still come to pass.  However, I also believe it is part of His plan for me to grow and transform.  I need to not just note these findings, but apply them.  That is the hard part…perhaps an 'easier said then done' moment.  Our salvation is secured by our faith in Jesus Christ, but we must allow his Holy Spirit to work through us.

I must begin to take every thought captive and speak carefully, not getting caught in a moment. 

I must begin to speak words of encouragement. 

I must say the good things that I think and not care about, 'losing my cool'.  I base so much of what I do on some strange standard that I don't even like. 

I must change my standard to Jesus Christ! 

I must base my words and actions on his life - radical.  I can't be trapped by the holds of this world.

I must be quick to admit that I am wrong. 

I must be slow to anger. 

I must be quick to praise. 

I must appreciate the things that others do. 

I must take myself out of the picture. 

I must listen and lean on the Holy Spirit. 

I must ask for him to enter my body each day.

 I must die so that he can live.