Attitude and Actions

I was sharing with my ladies Bible study a couple months ago how I felt like the Lord was asking us to step out of our comfort zones this year and grow. Our focus in 2009 was on our attitude and on two verses in particular. 2 Corinthians 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. AND Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. I strongly believe that we have a choice. As Christian women, are we going to choose anxiety, insecurity, irritability, and all the thoughts and emotions that only lead us to focus inward on our "self," or are we going to deny our "self focus," be it self loathing or self loving, and take up our crosses daily.It is a choice. We can take those thoughts captive and think on things that honor our Lord.

This year our focus is on our actions and our theme is taking our salvation seriously. We are talking about the difference between a head knowledge and a heart knowledge. And why we need a personal relationship with God. -What does it really mean to be "born again?" We have already talked about James 2:19-20 You believe that there is one God? Good! Even the demons believe that-and shudder. You foolish man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless?

-And we've asked ourselves, "Am I bearing fruit?" "When others look at me, what do I tell them about God in the way I live my life?" "As a Christian, or follower of Christ, do I portray a portrait of Christ?"

Are we consciously taking up our crosses everyday, or are we satisfied with the level of comfort and security we've found in our walk. Because sometimes we can become so comfortable that we don't continue to stretch ourselves and grow, and we become stagnant. Jesus said we are known by our fruit. Are we producing and baring love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. -Galatians 5:22-23 Are we choosing to clothe our selves everyday in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience? -Colossians 3:12

We know we can not know what is in someone's heart. We've talked about how we all have loved ones (maybe that we've lost,)that we hope and pray accepted Jesus as their savior and found the peace that comes from His forgiveness and grace. But, we are not talking about just finding salvation through Jesus Christ. We are talking about making Him Lord of our lives. Because if we are truly taking our salvation seriously, and we want abundant life here, not just the promise of heaven, then that is what our personal relationship with Jesus is all about.

Lately we've been talking about the word Christian. It means Christ-like or follower of Christ. Jesus said He did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many. -Mark 10:45 If we are His followers and are patterning our lives after His example then in everything we do we should be serving and ministering to others while we spread the good news of His love. We should be serving one another in love. -Galatians 5:13 And we should serve wholeheartedly as if we are serving the Lord, not men. -Ephesians 6:7

Being a servant can be hard to swallow. Everything about our flesh fights it. And the world tells us we are a simple minded schmuck if we buy into that. But, we are not of this world. We are set apart for His glory. So, with Bible in tow, we are encouraging one another to live it out in practical ways. Because, we all need a little help -from the Holy Spirit, as well as, our sisters in Christ. ~Blessings to you all!