As a nation, we have turned a new page, we're told. Paul's words here would remind us that we are citizens of the United States and should consider loyalty to our nation a mark of integrity. I would urge all of us to pray for our new President - it seems a lot of expectations have been placed on his shoulders already. I would pray for his tasks, his decisions, and his heart to be fully yielded to the will of God the Father.
On a bigger screen, we are, as believers, citizens of heaven. There are times when we all get bogged down with the details, frustrations, weariness of our day to day lives. If we could retain a vision of who we really (eternally) are (you are a daughter or son of the King!), wouldn't it put these daily sufferings in perspective? Wouldn't it keep us on the track of living what we believe - no matter who is watching?
- How's your conduct today? What struggles challenge you and how do others see you handling them?
I've heard it said that God is moving. If we get too comfortable or try to stand still in our relationship with Him, we drift farther away from Him. We almost don't notice it happening until we are weary, frustrated, or facing catasrophe and we respond in self-interest, fear or confusion.
ReplyDeleteI'm struggling with a near-broken relationship, one that was supposed to lead to a wedding. I hope that I always approach the situation with love and humility. I know there have been moments - the moments I try to live on my own, without God - that my reactions have been from self-interest, fear, or confusion. I quickly remember that it is time to move with God again. What is he teaching me from this? Not, why is this happening to me and how do I fix my life? Relationships affect many more people than the two involved, and my hope is that friends and family will see the difference in my heart (Christ) and notice that the situation was dealt with respectfully, lovingly and with humility.