Morning Moments

Can we know for sure that we are living the "faith life"? Can we know that the "life more abundant" that Jesus referred to is ours for real? YES! The REAL evidence is not found in a gift or an emotional lift, but the following, according to Paul in Ephesians 5, Philippians 2

1) Our speech is consistent with the Word of God. It ministers grace to the hearer. It is seasoned with salt, which is to say that it is cleansing and in good taste. When he speaks of speaking in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, he is referring to heart meditation. What we say is pure and productive, and does not violate Biblical principles. What we say edifies, builds up. Even our rebuke is not of a critical spirit, but of a constructive, compassionate one.

2) Our song is a melody in the heart. This morning I awakened to the tune of "In My Heart There Rings A Melody", and it makes the whole day brighter. God does that. When I am not singing, I am sighing, and the former is much better than the latter. Grant it some of us really need to keep the song in our heart, or at least till we are alone:)

3) Giving thanks - Fellowship brings with it an attitude of gratitude for all things. Years ago there was a commercial with a guy shaving. After he slaps the cologne on his face, he says, "Thanks, I needed that!" We are to always be grateful.

4) In Philippians Paul speaks of our thoughts being pure, honorable, of good report, etc.. It is to say that we think of things that help and not hurt; things that are pure and not poluted and perverted. Remember, "As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he." For, "Our of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaketh."

5) Praying continually - It is a prayerful spirit. We brush our teeth thanking God that we have them and asking Him to help us keep them:) I know that may sound silly but it is PRAYING about everything. I can never get past God's attentiveness. Regardless of how many other people are praying all over the world, He hears me as if it were just the two of us. That is why I like to talk to Him more than anyone:)

6) Loving everybody - It is impossible with man, but remember that with God all things are possible. This is not something we try to do, it is something we DO because of our abiding in Christ who loved so much He gave Himself to the cross. It does not mean we approve of everything others do, any more than it means we approve of all we do and say, but love ministers grace. Graces gives what others need but do not deserve.

We will continue these thought tomorrow, God willing, so for today stop trying and start trusting:) Life is much better that way.

PRAYER: With all my heart, Father, I want to please YOU, and I understand that it is impossible in the flesh. But I am NOT in the flesh, but in the SPIRIT because You live in me. Please take the freedom of making yourself at home in me. Teach me to be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to wrath. Teach me that all of my "I cants" are Your I cans, and that today is another glorious opportunity for You to be the God You really are IN ME>