A few words from the Word for the week. I encourage you to go back into your own Bible, reread what I post, and I CHALLENGE you to interpret it for yourself and to take it out with you into the world. (usually easier said then done, I know... but if it was easy, it wouldn't be a CHALLENGE...) :angel:
The scripture this week is from Ephesians chapter 4:29-5:2. (NIV)
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."
slander-false and malicious statements injurious to a person's reputation.
malice-A desire to harm others or to see others suffer; extreme ill will or spite.
Additional readings:
James 3:1-12;41-12
Matthew 12:33-37
My CHALLENGE to you (and to myself) for the upcoming week:
-Be aware of what comes from your lips. Be aware of the words you speak. Think about what you're fixing to say before you say it. Is it going to build someone up, or cause someone to stumble? Is it loving, or convicting?
-Demonstrate God's love for someone this week. Try to show someone the kind of love God shows to you.
Prayer:
Thank You God... Thank You! You are the God of Truth and Love. Help this to become a part of MY life. Guide me into Your truth and help me to love others as You have loved me. Be with my words this week God. Allow others to see the fruits I produce so that they may praise YOU. Thank You, thank You, for everything You have done for me and continue to do for me. I am forever grateful. It's in the name of Your Son, Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Additional stuff/updates:
These are some verses I have recently read over. I felt led to share this with you. I'm going to try and update this every week. I've always liked having a challenge or goal. It keeps me moving and keeps me focused. I hope this helps you, too! Also, I just put a prayer request up in the prayer section. Please check it out. Thank you SO much. Love you guys! ...and gals!
Amen Garrett! Great Post! Goes right back to thinking on those choices before we act on them, do they serve our selfish nature or do they bring us closer to the Lord in our Walk with Him. Most of us do far more damage with our own words then we ever do in all other ways combined.
Garrett, you are so wise beyond your years and I truly enjoy readying all of your posts!
