Reflecting God’s love
Note from Pastor Kristi Graner
In a world where faith and love are meant to be intertwined, it can be disheartening when we encounter hostility from others due to the actions of those who claim to share our beliefs.
We all have our flaws and moments of imperfection. Despite our desire to be recognized by our love, it can be challenging to authentically represent the essence of Jesus in our everyday words and actions. Why does this struggle persist?
Here are some simple ways to help us shine God’s truth and love in our every day lives.
1. Ask God for LOVE where sin is hiding.
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails…” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
Choose love over offense. We can choose heartfelt affection as a guide over our actions; and when we miss it, admit it and apologize. That is loving as well. Remember that love is the antidote to envy, lies, and hatred. So, let love be your compass in all that you do.
2. Unleash your SECRET WEAPON: the Holy Spirit.
“Walk by the Spirit, and you will not fulfill the desires of the flesh.” – Galatians 5:16
Next time you’re feeling weighed down, turn to the Holy Spirit and ask for His help. He is always very willing to fill us up until there’s no room left for rubbish. It’s like a divine game of musical chairs, and sin will be the one left without a seat.
3. Pray daily for the FRUIT of the Spirit.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23
Paul gives us a delightful list of the “fruit of the Spirit.” We can all be proactive by praying daily for this fruit to explode in our lives. Praying for patience helps us when we’re driving in traffic and praying for gentleness keeps our words purposeful.
4. Remember, your “flesh” is CRUCIFIED with Christ.
“And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” – Galatians 5:24
You have been empowered to go ahead and live like a renewed person! With God’s help we can let go of the small stuff and focus on the bigger picture. Embrace freedom and walk confidently in your new life. It’s time to leave the past in the past and step into the resurrection life that’s waiting for you.
5. Stay HUMBLE.
“Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.'” – 1 Peter 5:5
Really, it’s all about staying humble and relying on the Holy Spirit to guide us. Don’t let your guard down, but also don’t beat yourself up if you stumble along the way. Stay open to learning and trust that the Spirit will always be there to pick you back up. Keep pressing on, my friend!