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God's Family
Sometimes I think about something that should be important to every Christian. Whether we have been part of God's family for a short time or for many years we always need to behave the way His people ought to. But, I am afraid, many times we let our guard down, and fall back into the ways of the world. I think you will be able to relate to my thoughts. Many times, the New Testament writers give us reminders to keep us on track as His people, and our need to behave as God's family. Think about this: Am I acting more like the world or like God's Family?
One of the serious warnings is found in Peters' first letter. "Therefore, putting aside all malice and all guile and hypocrisy and envy and all slander, like newborn babes, LONG FOR THE PURE MILK OF THE WORD, THAT BY IT YOU MAY GROW IN RESPECT TO SALVATION, if you have tasted the kindness of the Lord." ( 1 Peter 2:1-3)
Notice a bit later in that chapter how Peter encourages us with the reminder of who we are and why we ought to take our Lord's blessings seriously:
"But you are a CHOSEN RACE, A ROYAL PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR GOD'S OWN POSSESSION, THAT YOU MAY PROCALIM THE EXCELLENCIES OF HIM, WHO HAS CALLED YOU OUT OF DARKNESS INTO HIS MARVELOUS LIGHT; for you once were not a people, but now you are the PEOPLE OF GOD; you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy." (1 Peter 2:9,10)
Notice a passage in the beginning of the wonderful book revealed to John from Jesus Christ. "...and He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father; to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen." (Revelation 1:6)
I suggest all of us need to remember often and take note of our behavior, when together and when away from our assemblies. Christianity is our way of life. Not just when we are together, but every hour of every day and night. Perhaps we need to remember the words of Paul as given to the church at Rome:
"Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which has been kept secret for long ages past, but now is manifested and ty the Scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the eternal God, has been made known to ALL THE NATIONS, lead to obedience of faith, to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ to WHOM BE THE GLORY FOREVER. AMEN." (Romans 16:25-27)
One final Scripture we might like to refer to:
"I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living a holy sacrifice; ACCEPTABLE TO GOD, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but BE TRANSFORMED BY THE RENEWING OF YOUR MIND, WHICH IS GOOD AND ACCEPTABLE AND PERFECT. " (Romans 12:1-2)
The influence of the world and people around us in our everyday lives often can tempt us to make wrong decisions that may harm our faith.. It takes determination and mindful thinking to be ready to stand for the truth in the face of evil behavior and situations.
We need to remember, God will help if we only call on Him. Our standard of living has been set for us by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It's not always easy to resist temptations thrown our way by Satan; however God has promised to always give us the way to overcome if we only listen to Him. (1 Corinthians 10:13) "that you may be able to endure it."
There are many pitfalls and stumbling blocks we might come upon. However, the reward at the end of this life is worth more than all Satan and the world can throw our way. Let's grow in our faith and try to help each other; and always remember, with God on our side "who can be against us." (Romans 8:18)
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