Colossians 4 ~ Be Found Diligent!

Don't forget to visit my dear friend Jenilee and her thoughts on Colossians 4!

Colossians 4

Chapter Breakdown

Masters to do their duty towards servants. (1)

Persons of all ranks to persevere in prayer, and Christian prudence. (2-6)

The apostle refers to others for an account of his affairs. (7-9)

Sends greetings; and concludes with a blessing. (10-18)

What God Wants To Show Me Today

The letters we have study over the last 20 days have been simply amazing. Paul's heart has been so clearly defined in all of them. We are saved by grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. We are to be watchful of false teachings that creep into the body of believers. We are to continue to grow in Joy of Christ and become more like Him. It is God's deepest desire that we would be reconciled unto Him.

I love Paul's last challenges in Colossians 4....

2 Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart.

5 Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity

6 Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.

If we can do these three things be devoted in prayer, live wisely, be gracious conversation and practice them then surely we will be true Christ followers.

Today is the last day of our Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians & Colossians GEPC study (tear) and I have enjoyed every minute it of it. It has been hard to write about it each chapter everyday...very time consuming...but priceless in so many ways. Thanks Jenilee for allowing me partner with you on this journey through Paul's epistles. Thanks to all of you who have blogged with us and made it that more enjoyable.

Find people in your life that encourage your walk with Christ and remember this verse....

Proverbs 27:17 (New Living Translation)
As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.

Paul's Letter from Crossroads Community Church on Vimeo.

If this video does not work here...please, please, please go check it out here it is a nice way to end our GEPC series.

Grace be with you!

Shout out to my freind Peter Flaherty for the beautiful Paul picture. Thanks!!!!

Colossians 3 ~ Get Dressed!

Don't forget to visit my dear friend Jenilee and her thoughts on Colossians 3!

Colossians 3

Chapter Breakdown

The Colossians exhorted to be heavenly-minded; (1-4)

to mortify all corrupt affections; (5-11)

to live in mutual love, forbearance, and forgiveness; (12-17)

and to practise the duties of wives and husbands, children, parents, and servants. (18-25)

There are some really practical things throughout this chapter that really help us live a life that follows Jesus. I love verses 1 and 2 tell us to set our hearts and minds on things above. We need to keep ourselves pointed in the right direction...remember life is like a marathon. Verse 3 says we are hidden with Christ in God. I blogged about being Under His Feathers it really helped me understand how God protects us not only from harm but by His cleansing blood I am protected from eternal death.

I love the practical list of things to get rid of....

sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, greedy, idolater, anger, rage malicious behavior, slander, dirty language & lying.

Well...I am sure we can find a couple things on this list that we need to get out of our lives if not all of them.

What God Wants To Show Me Today

But I love, love, love the next portion of scripture. You know me Mrs. Visual....I love the image of "You must Clothe yourselves...." I think of getting dressed for Michigan snow! You need a hat, scarf, earmuffs, mittens, warm socks, snow pants, warm coat and boots to brave the cold. I love how you are completely covered and wrapped up in your nice warm snow outfit just like how we need to clothe ourselves spiritually.

So what do we need to clothe ourselves in as Christ followers??

Tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, make allowance for each others faults, forgiveness, peace, thankfulness and above all LOVE!

When we put on God's clothes we will truly be able to be a beautiful example of a Christ follower. We will be a light in our relationships, our homes, our work place, our schools, our church, our community. As we daily get ready and put on our physical clothes lets be mindful of the spiritual clothes we need to put on that will glorify Christ.

Verse 17

And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.

Colossians 2 ~ The Picture of Christian Living!

Don't forget to visit my dear friend Jenilee and her thoughts on Colossians 2!

Colossians 2

Chapter Breakdown

1. The apostle expresses his love to, and joy in believers. (1-7)

2. He cautions against the errors of heathen philosophy; also against Jewish traditions, and rites which had been fulfilled in Christ. (8-17)

3. Against worshipping angels; and against legal ordinances. (18-23)

What God Wants To Show Me Today

I love how Paul uses earthly ideas to help us understand the spiritual truths here in Colossians 2. There is so much theology jammed packed into this little chapter. I see so many things in my mind as pictures. Some of the phrases that stuck out to me where.....

Knit Together (vs. 2)

Don't you just love this image??? Knitting is so complicated to me. The string is so entwined with itself. I can never figure out where the string goes half the time. A perfectly square baby blanket it is hard to see where the string began and where it ended. I have never knit; but I have done some crochet. When that string gets knit/crocheted to itself it becomes a strong item like a blanket or scarf that keeps you warm and snuggly.

Paul describes wanting us believers to be like something knit together. It is a beautiful picture of us being knit together in love, working together for a purpose and having confidence together in knowing who Christ is and His plan. The Church is to represent this picture....working together in love to fulfill His purpose!

Roots Grow Down & Be Built on Jesus (vs. 7)

Rooted down in Christ is such a powerful image in my mind. A tree that is firmly rooted will not fall even in the strongest of storms. Roots also tend to much bigger than the tree itself. I want my life to be so deeply rooted in Christ that when tough times come and strong winds blow I will not be moved. As I grow in Him my faith will be strengthened and I love the end of verse 7...

and you will overflow with thankfulness!

Being built on Jesus, who is our chief cornerstone (Matt. 21:42), is so important to our growth in Him. I like this from Wikipedia...The cornerstone (or foundation stone) concept is derived from the first stone set in the construction of a masonry foundation, important since all other stones will be set in reference to this stone, thus determining the position of the entire structure.

I want Christ to be my cornerstone in which all other aspects of my life will be set in reference to Him, thus determining the position of my whole life!

Let No One Capture You (vs. 8)
Ooooo when I saw this phrase this picture totally came to mind. When we begin to allow ourselves to listen to false teachers we are lead away from Christ. We become prisoners if we are not careful.

This is exactly what Satan wants to happen to us. Satan is liar and wants to deceive us so that we can become his prisoner. Notice at the end of verse 8 that Paul speaks of him. He will use false teachers to do it!

Stand firm in your faith! Keep rooted in Christ and build on Him! Be freed by the power of Jesus and the cross. We no longer have to be bound to the things of this earth. Christ has ransomed us!

Spiritual Circumcision (vs. 11-12)

Now the picture I picked was because I think baptism shows what Paul was expressing and appropriate for a blog. LOL

When we believed in Christ we were "Spiritually Circumcised", our sin was removed. Baptism represents this so well. As we go down into the water it represents that sin being washed away. We have died to our old sinful nature...as verse 12 says "For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized." When we come up out of the water it represents our new life in Him. God made us alive! He forgave us and cancelled all charges against us! I love, love, love verse 14!

He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross.

We Are the Body of Christ (vs. 19)

I love this picture of my church and my church family. I think it shows that we are one body; but see the cross above us all, that represents who we are living for.

Once again we see reference to Christ being the head of the body (Church). Paul goes a little further and also describes Christ as the joints and ligaments that hold us together. Paul says that false teachers are not connected to the body. We must remember that we answer to Christ alone. We look to Him for our help, our nourishment. We look to Him to help us work out our own salvation. He is our leader, no one else. The Church is our encourager our support system...it does not define our salvation only Christ does!

The Body of Christ is beautiful in what it does. We work together to do His will and that is to go out and preach the Gospel to the world!

Let's keep these images in our minds as we.....

Colossians 1 ~ Christ Is Our All!

Don't forget to visit my dear friend Jenilee and her thoughts on Colossians 1!

Colossians 1

Theme: Redemption fully in Christ

"In the first two chapters the apostle tells them what they must believe, and in the two last what they must do; the doctrine of faith, and the precepts of life for salvation. "-Matthew Henry

Chapter Breakdown

The apostle Paul salutes the Colossians, and blesses God for their faith, love, and hope. (1-8)

Prays for their fruitfulness in spiritual knowledge. (9-14)

Gives a glorious view of Christ. (15-23)

And sets out his own character, as the apostle of the Gentiles. (24-29)

What God Wants To Show Me Today

Ohhhhhhh, I love how in verses 15-20 Paul preaches the "Good News"! Christ is God, Living, Eternal, Powerful and Ready to Save!

Christ Is Supreme

15 Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation

16 for through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can’t see— such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through him and for him.

17 He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together.

18 Christ is also the head of the church, which is his body. He is the beginning, supreme over all who rise from the dead. So he is first in everything.

19 For God in all his fullness was pleased to live in Christ,

20 and through him God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross.

Paul goes on to remind us that we were all dead in our sins; but because of Christ sacrifice we are redeemed. Our souls have been purchased through faith. When we believe, Christ's blood makes us pure so that we can have eternal life through Him. What an awesome passage to use to share the salvation message.

Paul also reminds us to stand firm and to hold on to the truths we have learned. We must be watchful for false teachings. Everything we learn about our faith needs to line up with the Word of God! Let's continue to vigilant in our faith and not become lazy.

Christ is our All!

Philippians 4 ~ Joy!

Don't forget to visit my dear friend Jenilee and her thoughts on Philippians 1!

Philippians 4

Chapter Breakdown (Matthew Henry)

1. The apostle exhorts the Philippians to stand fast in the Lord. (1)

2. Gives directions to some, and to all in general. (2-9)

3. Expresses contentment in every condition of life. (10-19)

4. He concludes with prayer to God the Father, and his usual blessing. (20-23)

The grand finale of Philippians, chapter four! This little tiny chapter continues to be one of my favorite chapters of the Bible simply because I love so many of the verses in them, so much so, that I have blogged about them more than once. Paul is pretty much wrapping up his letter, exhorting the Philippians and blessing them. But, tucked in this conclusion are some pretty powerful verses on how we can live a content life, free of worry and full of JOY!

How many of us worry and feel discontent? If everybody was truly honest we probably struggle with one or both of these problems weekly if not daily on various levels. But here we find some verses that give these problems a 1..2...3...knockout!

1. Don't Worry! (and here too)

6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

2. What To Focus On!

8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

3. How To Be Content! (and I wrote about it here too!)

12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

Do you want peace & joy in your life???? Repeat steps 1, 2, & 3 over and over!

What God Wants To Show Me Today

One verse really stood out to me today! I am impressed by the Church in Philippi. They were a very caring and attentive church. They understood Paul's needs and did their best as fellow co-laborers to help him.

15b......not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; 16 for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need.

Wow, this really challenged me! In this chapter, we learn how to not focus on our own problems and give them to the Lord. Why? So we can meet the needs of others. Specifically, here they meet the needs of Paul their leader. Practically speaking, do we know the needs of our pastor? Are we so consumed with our own problems that we don't minister to him or those in real need? Are we missing JOY because we are consumed with worry and discontentment?

I find time and time again that when I get my focus off of myself I find JOY in serving others...hummmmm funny how God works that all out. Matthew Henry had a great statement in his commentary....

"Joy in God is of great consequence in the Christian life; and Christians need to be again and again called to it. It more than outweighs all causes for sorrow."

Ooooooooo soooooooooooooo GOOD, especially for the holiday season coming in the next few days!

Philippians 3 ~ Where Is Your Treasure?

Don't forget to visit my dear friend Jenilee and her thoughts on Philippians 1!

Philippians 3

Chapter Breakdown
1. The Value of Knowing Christ (vs. 1-11)

2. Pressing Toward the Goal (vs. 12-21)

The Value of Jesus!

Verses 1-11 remind me of what we learned in Galatians. Paul tells the Church of Philippi to remember we are saved by grace not by anything we do. He reminds them to be watchful and keep away from anyone who preaches anything different.

What is the value of knowing Christ??? We learn that when we have faith Christ righteousness makes us righteous. Because of His work on the cross we can have new life. The value is that my soul can be free from the curse of sin because of Jesus. Knowing Christ means that someday I will be forever with Him. The value is that Jesus Christ paid my debt!

Anything I could ever do is simply this (vs. 8) ...Garbage! Strong Words...Strong Visual our efforts are like this picture.....useless and smelly!

The Goal

I love last part of the chapter. Paul teaches about regeneration which basically means that followers of Christ are all in a process of becoming holy. When Christ comes in He begins the process of making us new. I love verse 13 & 14

but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

Remember life is like a marathon race. We must train hard and press on toward the finish line. When conflicts arise, seek God. Hold on to any progress in your life. Look for godly examples in your life to help you reach the goal. Watch for pitfalls or teaching that may cause you to stumble or get off the path completely. Keep your eye on the prize....heaven!

Wow, I love how this chapter seems to sum up everything we have been learning so far in our bible study!

What God Wants To Show Me Today
In kid's church today, I taught the kids about following Jesus. We are faced with many paths in life that we can follow. We may strive for wealth and riches. We may chase after great careers. We may try to live just a good life. But God wants us to follow Him! This was our memory verse....

Matthew 6:20-21 (New Living Translation)
20 Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. 21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.



Paul closes this chapter looking at those who are enemies of the cross and those who are citizens of heaven. Enemies only think about their life here on this earth, their treasures are earthly. However, followers of Christ lay up their treasures in heaven. We are heavenly minded and the things of this earth are of little value. Our desires will be a good litmus test of the condition of our heart. Earthly or heavenly desires will be evident in our lives we live out.

20 But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior. 21 He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control.

What is valuable to you? Is it a big house, fancy cars, wealthy friends? Or is knowing Christ the most valuable thing you possess? Are you running hard towards Him or are you running as fast as you can away from Him? Where is your treasure, is it here on earth or in heaven? Do you desire the things of this earth or God?

Press on toward the goal and ....

Philippians 2 ~ Joy of Living for Christ

Don't forget to visit my dear friend Jenilee and her thoughts on Philippians 1!

Philippians 2

Chapter Breakdown(Matthew Henry's Commentary)

1. Exhortations to a kind, humble spirit and behavior. (1-4)

2. The example of Christ. (5-11)

3. Diligence in the affairs of salvation, and to be examples to the world. (12-18)

4. The apostle's purpose of visiting Philippi. (19-30)

I think Philippians may become my blogs official book of the Bible that supports my theme of JOY. Joy is one of the main themes of Philippians. More specifically Joy in ministry & Joy in adversity. Since my life is all about ministry, Paul's letter to Philippi is a great guideline for my life. It is great for everyone since we are all called to spread the Good News!

What God Wants To Show Me Today

Throughout my life I have tried to find women to pattern my life after. I look for certain qualities and some of them are: an encourager, loving, friendly, tender, compassionate, promote unity, works together with others, selfless, humble, interested in others, same attitude as Christ. (vs. 1-5) I have found a handful of women who really live out these characteristics. They are the most beautiful women I have ever come across. They are beautiful because their character radiates Jesus.

I want to shine brightly like these women and I am so thankful God has placed them into my life. I must work hard to show the results of my salvation (vs. 12b) I love verses 13 - 15.

13 For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. 14 Do everything without complaining and arguing, 15 so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people.

I want to shine as brightly as I can! It is a Joy to serve my King!

Philippians 1 ~ Heaven, My Home

Don't forget to visit my dear friend Jenilee and her thoughts on Philippians 1!

Philippians 1

Chapter Breakdown (Matthew Henry's Commentary)

1. The apostle offers up thanksgivings and prayers, for the good work of grace in the Philippians. (1-7)

2. He expresses affection, and prays for them. (8-11)

3. Fortifies them against being cast down at his sufferings. (12-20)

4. He stood prepared for glorifying Christ by life, or death. (21-26)

5. Exhortations to zeal, and constancy in professing the gospel. (27-30)

What God Wants To Show Me Today

20 For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die. 21 For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. 22 But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So I really don’t know which is better. 23 I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me.

I love this portion of scripture. In some ways it is like a life song for me. I want to be bold and consistent. I want to bring honor to Christ in life and in my death. I have so much work to do for Him on this earth. Yet, to be with Him in heaven is to finally truly be at home. I long for it.

So many times Christians are afraid of death. In reality, dying is just more of living. I get excited about what heaven is going to like. I have such a hope. There are days I so long to be at home.

But, while God gives me breath, I know I have so much to do here. There are people hurting all around us. People are hungry, people are sick, people are poor, people are lonely and there is a Truth that will bring them Hope. I know the truth and it is my pleasure to proclaim it.

My prayer for you all today is one of my favorite verses...

3 Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God.

4 Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy,

5 for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now.

6 And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.

Remember in life .....if it isn't Good, God isn't done!

Ephesians 6 ~ Putting on the Armor!

Don't forget to visit my dear friend Jenilee and her thoughts on Ephesians 6!

Ephesians 6

Chapter Breakdown (Matthew Henry Commentary)

1. Duties of Children & Parents (1-4)

2.Of Servants and Masters (5-9)

3. All Christians are to put on spiritual armour against the enemies of their souls. (10-18)

4.The apostle desires their prayers, and ends with his apostolic blessing. (19-24)

As a kid, this chapter was one of my favorites. I loved reading about the armor of God and putting it on. I liked the idea of being a soldier in the Lord's Army! Remember that old song?????

I may never march in the infantry
Ride in the cavalry
Shoot the artillery
I may never fly o'er the enemy
But I'm in the Lord's army!
Yes Sir!

I'm in the Lord's army!
Yes sir!
I'm in the Lord's army!
Yes sir!

Everyday, God wants us to put on the armor of God, not so we can sing a cute little song. The enemy is out to destroy us. We must do all that we can do to "stand firm". I have taught about this lesson with the kids several times over the years (that's me teaching about it at VBS in Sault Ste. Marie). I have fun with it of course by using fun items to get the point across. I want kids to understand that even at their age we all need to be prepared. We need to put on....

Belt of Truth

I want my kids to know Christ who is truth!

Breastplate of Righteousness

I want my kids to protect their heart with the righteousness of Christ given to us.

Feet fitted with the Gospel of Peace

I want them to be able to stand their ground by being firmly planted in the Gospel. "Motives to obedience, amidst trials, must be drawn from a clear knowledge of the gospel." ~Matthew Henry

Shield of Faith

I want my children's Faith to be so strong so it will be able to withstand when arrows of doubt come.

Helmet of Salvation

I want their salvation, who they are in Christ, to protect their minds when thoughts of insecurity creep in.

Sword of the Spirit

Our weapon! May we always rely on the word of God to come against the enemy of our soul.

Pray in the Spirit (vs. 18)

I would like to add this as one of our weapons as well. When we pray, we are fully relying on the power of God to protect and keep us.

What God Wants To Show Me Today

Here is a great "IF-THEN" Verse!

1 Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do. 2 “Honor your father and mother.” This is the first commandment with a promise: 3 If you honor your father and mother, “things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth.”

Children IF you obey Then things will go well for you....and you will have long life on earth. I find that even at the ripe age of 34 there are times I still have to remember to "honor" my mom and dad with my attitudes and thoughts. It doesn't stop just because I move out of the house. I still need to show them honor and respect.

But here is where sometimes as parents we forget that Paul keeps teaching. It is always easy to point out to our kids that they must obey! But is it always easy for us to remember verse 4?????

4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.

Do my kids struggle to be obedient because I am not following verse 4? We need to watch our anger and how we treat our kids very carefully. If we are disciplining, instructing and loving them like Christ would want us to I have a feeling our kids would do much better........ hum something to think about.

Epesians 5 ~ Godly Marriage

Don't forget to visit my dear friend Jenilee and her thoughts on Ephesians 5!


Ephesians 5

Chapter Breakdown
1. Living in the Light

2. Living by the Spirit's Power

3. Spirit-guided Relationships: Wives & Husbands

What God Wants To Show Me Today
I wanted to wait until Jenilee posted so I could see what she focused on. Since she focused on the first half I am going to focus on the last portion (vs. 21-33).

This is one of my favorite portions of scripture in regards to marriage. I think it shows us exactly what a godly marriage is and should be.

So many times I hear Christians get this idea of a marriage wrong. They swing the pendulum to far one way or another. The husband demands complete submission to a point of being abusive or the woman demands her way demeaning the God given authority of the husband's role. God paints a beautiful picture of what He truly wants a marriage to be and represents.

The marriage is meant to represent Christ and His relationship to the church.

So as the church submits to Christ authority and loves Him; wives have the honor or representing this to the world. Personally, I have no problem following my hubby; because I know that he is always trying to follow Christ. If he is following Christ, I know we are in the will of God; simply because that is how God has designed marriage to work.

The husband's role is to represent Christ. To be honest, I am thankful I do not have this responsibility. It is a high honor; but remember to whom much is given much is required. It says in verse 25.... Husbands love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her. Wow, my husband should love me so much that he would give his very life for me and love me as much as he loves himself. Can you imagine what marriages would be like if men would step up and be this?????

God wants us to be in unity within our marriage; just like He wants to be in unity with us. Marriage is really comes down to love and respect. I love verse 33...

Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

God nails it on the head. So many marriages are broken because the husbands have not loved their wives and wives have not respected their husbands.

If you are struggling today in your marriage...God wants to do something amazing. He wants to bring healing and he wants to restore your marriage. I encourage you today to talk to your pastor or get some good Christian counseling. Please, don't wait; don't think it is too late! He is a miracle working God; what seems impossible ....He can make possible!

We go to the doctor when we are sick to get better. Get help so that your marriage will get better. Sometimes, we just don't know how to change the way things are and we don't have the tools; a pastor or counselor can really help us see things we have not seen before. A godly marriage just doesn't happen all by itself. Marriage requires work and the power of the Holy Spirit moving in our lives. God wants our relationships to be whole and full of life. He wants our marriages to succeed; because it represents our relationship with Him.

So let's work hard and....

Ephesians 4 ~ What Does The Christian Look Like????

Don't forget to visit my dear friend Jenilee and her thoughts on Ephesians 4!


Ephesians 4

Chapter Breakdown (Matthew Henry Commentary)
1. Exhortations to mutual forbearance and union (vs. 1-6)
2. To a dues use of spiritual gifts and graces. (vs. 7-16)
3. To purity and holiness (vs. 17-24)
4 And to take heed of the sins practiced among the heathen. ( vs. 25-32)

Once again this chapter is so full of good teaching that my little blog could never do it justice. I could read this over and over and each time get something new out of it. I think I have read it over 4 times today already and each time something different pops out at me.

Basically, we see Paul instructing us on the nuts and bolts of being a Christian within the body of Christ. I wonder if the Body of Christ looked in the mirror would it reflect these things that should bring unity?? Do we as individuals reflect Christ? Paul write to us what the Church should be displaying....

The Body of Christ:

Must.....
be humble
be gentle
be patient
bear with one another in love
make every effort to keep unity, peaceful!

all these things add up to bring about UNITY!

This is one of the pieces of art that I judged at the National Fine Arts Festival. When people look at us do we reflect ALL these things because of Christ in us??? When people see us do they see Christ?

Can you imagine if the Church actually put all these things into practice?! We would then become the "mature body of Christ" that Paul goes on to describe in verses 11-16. I think many would agree we have a lot of babies in our churches today. That is where leaders must rise up and "equip the people for works of service, so that the body of Christ would be built up!" (vs 12) We would then be a true representation of Christ and being honor to His name!


The Believer

Must...

• put off their old self, which is corrupted by sinful desires (vs. 22)
  
• be made new in the attitude of our minds (vs 23)
  
• put on a new self created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.(vs. 24)
  
  I like the next portion of scripture. Paul is very clear what a follower of Christ is like. He shows us what to avoid and what to do to not grieve the Holy Spirit....
  
  

Don't / Do

Lie / Speak Truth
Don't Sin while angry, give Satan a foothold/ Work things out
Don't Steal / Work hard and share with those in need
Unwholesome Talk / Build each other up
Bitterness, rage, anger, brawling, slander, all malice / Kindness, compassion, forgiveness

And definitely do not grieve the Holy Spirit!

What I find interesting is that if you are struggling in one of these areas focus on doing the opposite to help you get back on the right path.

What God Wants To Show Me Today
There was one verse that really grabbed a hold of me today.....

Verse 1.

As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.

I have to admit that sometimes living a life worthy of the calling seems almost impossible to me. Sometimes, I feel so inadequate. Thank goodness for the power of the Holy Spirit in my life always drawing me closer, convicting me and helping me fall in love with Him more and more. Thank you Jesus that it is by your Grace that we are saved. Lord thank you for the work of regeneration that is always at work in this little soul. For it is be God alone that I could ever be in any way worthy.

I want nothing more than to attain the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. (vs. 13) Hopefully, someday when I stand before the throne my life will have been "worthy of the calling"!

Ephesians 3 ~ Home!

Don't forget to visit my dear friend Jenilee and her thoughts on Ephesians 3!

Ephesians 3

Chapter Breakdown

1. God's Mysterious Plan Revealed (1-12)

2. Paul's Prayer for Spiritual Growth

I love a good mystery. I love the who-done-it! I like trying to figure out how a person got from point A to point B. I can't get enough of that stuff....it's probably why I liked Nancy Drew books as a kid.

There are mysterious things about God. Not bad mysterious...glorious mysterious; things I will never understand until I meet Him face to face.

In vs. 18 & 19 And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. 19 May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully.

I love that there is something new to learn about Him every day. But I never will be able to truly understand Him because He is just too big, too awesome, too amazing...too much beyond what human words could even express. But every now and again God reveals His mysterious plans to us. One of those times of revelation can be found in verse 1-12 in Ephesians.

His plan has always been that Gentiles and Jews who believe in Jesus would be God's children. As God's children we will inherit all the "endless treasures available to us in Christ".

His purpose was so that the church would glorify Him! My question is ....Are we "displaying His wisdom in its rich variety to all the unseen rulers and authorities in the heavenly places (vs. 10)"? I hope we are not falling short!

What God Wants To Show Me Today

There are two things I want to narrow in on....

First.....

Vs. 12 Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God’s presence.

Because of Christ work on the cross, He has made away for us to communicate directly to God. When we pray we are in the very presence of the Most High. We no longer need a Priest as in the Old Testament because Jesus has become our High Priest. We are covered by the blood of Jesus and that is why we can boldly approach His throne.....because He made it possible.

Second and my most favorite....

Vs. 16&17 I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him.

I love, love, love this verse. Can I say it again?! I LOVE this verse. God gives us the power of the Holy Spirit...and then Christ comes and makes his home in our hearts. I love the word home here; God chooses to live in me. Wow!

I love being at my home. I love eating yummy home cooked meals at the dinner table. Or maybe, I like to snuggle under a warm blanket, drinking cocoa, and reading a good book. Playing games at the table with my kids is always a pleasant time. Or possibly I will cuddle with my hubby on the couch while watching a great chick flick. I love crawling into my bed under the crisp sheets Sometimes, I come in the door, drop my stuff on the floor and breathe a sigh of relief...because I am finally home.

Home has such warm, fuzzy, secure, loving, peaceful feelings for me. Maybe, you don't have those feelings when you think of your earthly home. However, they are the characteristics that Christ will teach you as he makes your heart His home. Maybe, you are worried because you don't know how a home should work, or look like or be!!! Look though... it is Him who does all the work. The Holy Spirit gets us ready and Christ makes his home in us. What do we have to do....trust!

Trust and Home will be in your Heart.

Ephesians 2 ~ I Am Now A....

Don't forget to visit my dear friend Jenilee and her thoughts on Ephesians 2!

Ephesians 2

Theme for the whole book of Ephesians: Reconciliation & Unity

Chapter Breakdown...

1. Made Alive in Christ (vs. 1-10)
2. Jew & Gentile Reconciled through Christ


What God Wants To Show Me Today

Three things really (there is so much more but I will just keep it to three)...


1. I Am Alive!

In the first 10 verses we are reminded about who we were and who we became through Christ.

4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.

We were slaves to the world and through the work of the cross Jesus free gift of grace was given to us when we believe. I love the visual of being made alive. I kind of see it as a seed. If you never put it in soil and water it will never become anything it will in fact decay into nothing. However, put that seed in soil and water it....it can become something beautiful.

We are like that seed. The seed is intended for greatness; but if it is never planted it is useless. When we give ourselves to Jesus, He gives us life. He plants us. He waters us. We become alive, living, growing....producing fruit.

2. I am His Masterpiece!


I love verse 10...

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

I am an artist. So, this idea...I totally get. I love to paint. I love to create. I love that God created me. I love that every stroke is full of purpose and meaning. Every color is God's glory in me. I am meant for greatness.




3. I am His Citizen!

My Grandpa was drafted in World War II. Funny thing, they discovered, as he was doing his training, that he couldn't fight in fact he should never have been drafted. Not because anything was wrong with him. He was physically fine. He wasn't anti- American. He was the right age. Everything was right except one thing.....


He was not an American citizen.


They asked him if he wanted to become a citizen and he said, "Yes". They brought a judge in and sealed the deal. That is the story of my Grandpa becoming a US citizen.


In verse 19 - 20 the Gentiles (that is me) we are declared no longer foreigners. The Judge has come and declared us as now apart of the promise of Abraham. I am a citizen of heaven. I am a member of God's family along with Abraham, Jacob, Moses, King David, Isaiah, Daniel! That is so cool. Christ has bridged the gap and all those who believe in Him are now a citizen of heaven!

I will end with verse 13....

But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

I Am Alive, His Masterpiece, A Citizen!

Ephesians 1 ~ Sealed!

Don't forget to visit my dear friend Jenilee and her thoughts on Ephesians 1!

Ephesians 1

What a totally different tone in this letter as compared to the Galatians. Here we see a group of believers "Getting it Right"! The letter's intention seems to be to help strengthen the church of Ephesus.

Just a side note that I find very cool is...Paul was writing this from prison. Instead of him having a "Whoa is me, I am in prison" attitude...he sets up office in the cell and keeps working. Wow! I want to be like that, all about the work of Christ and getting it done. Totally cool Paul, totally cool.

Chapter Breakdown:
1. Greeting (vs. 1-2)
2. Spiritual Blessings in Christ (vs. 3-14)
3. Thanksgiving and prayer (vs. 15-23)

I am going to be honest...I am totally exhausted so this one is gonna be short.
What God Wants To Show Me Today
I really was excited as I started reading chapter one. It has such a different tone than Galatians. God can be tough on His children and sometimes He is encouraging. I am already feeling the encouraging words already.

Paul tackles and age old debate in verses 3-14 regarding predestination. Regardless, of our stand points, I know this to be true...God created all of us to love Him and to be loved by Him. God does not create evil it is not His nature. God knows everything and I don't. So faith will step in when I don't understand the "how" stuff. My stance is that we are all chosen/predestined to serve and follow God. However, we can choose to say I don't want God and follow our sinful nature instead. God knows all yet gives us freedom to choose Him. I don't know how it works....but I know my God, who has it all figured out.

I love all the wonderful things God says to us in these verses....
He has blessed us with every spiritual blessing (vs. 3)
He chose us (vs. 4)
He loved us to adopt us to sonship through Jesus, it was His will and pleasure (vs. 5)
He freely gives us Grace (vs. 6)
We are the "Ones He loves" (vs. 6)
He has taken care of our debt and freed us with Grace that he "Lavishes on us". (vs. 7-8)
He makes known His will to us according to his good pleasure. (vs. 8)

Thank you, Lord for all your blessings.

But here are the verses I really loved....

Galatians 1:13b - 14 NIV
When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit,
14 who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.

I love how the New Living Translation says verse 14

14 The Spirit is God’s guarantee that he will give us the inheritance he promised and that he has purchased us to be his own people.

When I decided to follow Christ, He put his seal on me. That seal says that I have been purchased. Christ paid the price for me...He used His own blood for currency. That seal is the powerful Holy Spirit that can not be removed.

Romans 8 :38-39 says....
38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

I am sealed! Thank You, Jesus!