Be an Overcomer
I talked with two friends this weekend about how different things were in the schools these days. I’ve heard such disheartening stories from many teachers from all over. It’s almost unbelievable to see how the expectations, guidelines, rules, evaluations and curriculums have all drastically changed over the years.
I think we all strive for improvement, but what bothers me is when I see these ‘improvements’ squeeze out the fun, the thrill, and the love of education out of those teachers who truly care. As we ended our conversation, all I could think of was how relieved I was that God’s standards never change. Amen?
I heard a wonderful sermon this weekend about being faithful with what God has given you, financially or otherwise. I admit, it was convicting.
If you’re like me, the first thing that comes to mind concerning faithfulness (or a lack of) is marriage. It doesn’t take a brain surgeon to figure out that without commitment, trust, and forgiveness, a marriage will not last.
If you are single, you might be thinking that this topic doesn’t concern you. Well, I decided to look up the definition online, and it revealed that it doesn’t matter WHO you are – it applies to us all. Here are the definitions from Dictionary.com:
Faithful –
1. Strict or thorough in the performance of duty: a faithful worker
2. True to one’s word, promises, vows
3. Steady in allegiance or affection; loyal; constant: faithful friends
4. Reliable, trusted, or believed
5. Adhering or true to fact, a standard, or an original; accurate: a faithful account or copy
God’s faithfulness is something I count on – don’t you? It gives us hope, motivation AND strength to overcome evil – and our weaknesses. His commitment to keeping his promises reveals how much we are dearly loved. Can you imagine life without it? His love, his expectations, and his promises are constant. In a world that changes every minute, I find that amazing and very comforting. Praise God.
After reading the definition of ‘faithful’ from a worldly view, I started searching through the scriptures to see what God desires from me – from you. If you believe in God…if you truly LOVE him, please take some time to evaluate your heart. Next, be sure to read and learn what he wants from you. Why? Because he loves you – no matter what.
Here are a few that stood out for me tonight….
“Whatever you do, work at it wholeheartedly as though you were doing it for the Lord and not merely for people.” Col. 3:23
“Remember: A stingy planter gets a stingy crop; a lavish planter gets a lavish crop. I want each of you to make plenty of time to think it over, and make up your own mind what you will give. That will protect you against sob stories and arm-twisting. God loves it when the giver delights in the giving.” 2 Cor. 9:6-7 (The Message)
“And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” Mark 11:25
“Love the lord, all his faithful people! The Lord preserves those who are true to him, but the proud he pays back in full.” Psalm 31:23
“Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust and obey….
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