Why It’s Good to Be Friends with People Who Don’t Believe in Jesus

If Christians are going to love the way Jesus did, they will choose to spend time and be friends with people who do not yet know or trust in Him. #friends #LovelikeJesus #BlessingBloggers

How much time do you spend investing in relationships with unbelievers?

Historically, there have been some groups of Christians that have chosen to create their own exclusive communities to remain isolated from the “influence of the world”—people who choose not to be friends with people outside of their faith community.

In 1 Corinthians 5, the Apostle Paul offers us a different perspective…

I wrote you in my previous letter asking you not to associate with those who practice sexual immorality.Yet in no way was I referring to avoiding contact with unbelievers who are immoral, or greedy, or swindlers, or those who worship other gods—for that would mean you’d have to isolate yourself from the world entirely!
1 Corinthians 5:9–10 (TPT)

Since Jesus called us to “go and tell” (Matthew 19:20) and to love as He has loved us (John 15:12), we should model His care and compassion for all people, believers and unbelievers alike.

And maybe, just maybe, it is our demonstration of the love of Christ for everyone that will inspire someone to want what we have. Maybe they’ll see the light of hope that comes from knowing and loving Jesus that will make them think that He might be able to give them hope as well.

Jesus said…

“In the same way, there will be a glorious celebration in heaven over the rescue of one lost sinner who repents, comes back home, and returns to the fold—more so than for all the righteous people who never strayed away.”
Luke 15:7 (TPT)

Rev always says, “I don’t want to do great things for God, I just want to be blessed to be in the vicinity when God does great things.”

By God’s grace, it just may be our decision to be friends with someone who does not yet believe that puts us in the vicinity where we can watch the Lord do something great!

A Prayer to Be Friends with People Who Don’t Believe

Precious Father, You clearly express Your love for everyone! Your Word defines You as love. (1 John 4:8) And Jesus said, “this is my command: Love each other deeply, as much as I have loved you” (John 15:12). It really is impossible for us to love too much.

Jesus poured out forgiveness and love on people the world identified as “sinners.”

Your Word says, “everyone has sinned, we all fall short of [Your] glorious standard.” (Romans 3:23) We need Your forgiveness and love. We need to know the truth about Jesus. Every one of us.

Please tender my heart and mind to see people as You do. Please help me love the way You love. Please help me open my heart to be friends with both people who know and love You and those who don’t yet. By Your grace, I would love to be in the vicinity when You work faith in my friend’s life.

May I shine Your light, proclaim Your promises, live for Your glory. I pray this all in Jesus’ name. Amen.

The Life Application Bible Notes challenge us, rather than pointing out the sin in those who are not yet believers . . . we are called to show them the amazing truth about Jesus.

But what about our friendships with other believers?

Paul had something to say about that as well…

It isn’t my responsibility to judge outsiders, but it certainly is your responsibility to judge those inside the church who are sinning.
1 Corinthians 5:12

And the LAB Notes add that when the church rationalizes sin, it “dims the image of God” and “distorts the picture of Christ,” and is not “fit to be a light to the world.” Rationalizing and justifying sin within the church is not God honoring, “Church leaders must be ready to correct, in love, for the sake of spiritual unity.”

I’ll admit, I don’t like to think about it but maintaining unity around the truth of God’s Word is God’s will.

We are called to welcome every sinner on the planet into the fellowship of believers without expecting them to “clean up their act” before they walk through the doors. But we are also called to consistently show the blessings of living God’s way . . . of SEEKing His will, TRUSTing His promises, FOLLOWing His commands. When we don’t. When we put our stamp of approval on things God’s Word clearly calls sin we are denying His truth and ignoring the power of His grace, mercy, and love.

On today’s note write:

May I honor God by being friends with both believers and unbelievers.

May God bless you today as you think about your friendships and the ways you can touch lives with His love.

Thank you so much for joining me today.

And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

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The Important Truth You Need to Know about Carrying Your Cross

3 / 17 / 212 / 24 / 21

The idea of carrying your cross to follow Jesus can be a frightening thought but there is an important truth His followers have that changes everything. #BibleStudy #JesusTruth #Faith #CountingMyBlessings #BlessingBloggers #WWGGG

I’ve stumbled over these words of Jesus more times than I’d like to admit…

If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me.
Luke 9:23

I didn’t struggle with the “follow me” part. The “give up your own way” part was harder. But the “take up your cross daily” part . . . that was hard. I could get tripped up by those words.

I didn’t want to carry my cross.

I held back a little because I was afraid that if I surrendered myself completely to God’s will, I might be asked to suffer in ways that would be too difficult to endure.

So, when problems came along, I ran to self-help books and so-called experts. Oh, I prayed and asked God to fix my problems but I lived as if it were up to me to do the fixing.

Until the Lord allowed circumstances that helped me understand that although I trusted God for my eternal future, I was denying myself the blessings He wanted me to have everyday.

Because the truth about cross-carrying is that when you and I follow Jesus and willingly give up our own way . . . He helps us carry any cross He allows.

And today, I regularly thank God for allowing the painful time that brought me to the TRUTH that I had doubted for so very long…

When you and I give up our own way, take up our cross daily, and follow Jesus, He will give us everything we need to live with the confidence that He is able and willing to give us whatever is needed every single day.

A Prayer to Know and Live
the Truth of Cross Carrying

Lord, forgive me. I have listened to the world’s lies that my days and my problems are up to me. I have foolishly lived out the consequences of unwise choices of worldly “experts” rather than seeking Your will and trusting Your ways. I have foolishly denied myself Your peace and strength, choosing to live in fear and doubt.

Thank you for allowing me to see my lack of wisdom and understanding. Thank you for showing me that Your love is greater than my foolishness and Your grace is greater than my sin.

I want to fully follow You, Lord. I want to lay down my stubborn will and selfish desires. I want to SEEK You so that I might KNOW, TRUST, and OBEY Your will with confidence that You will give me everything I need for whatever cross You allow. In Jesus’ precious name, I pray. Amen.

Jesus will help you carry your cross!

I love the way The Message expresses this truth:

Then [Jesus] told them what they could expect for themselves: “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat—I am. Don’t run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I’ll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to finding yourself, your true self. What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you?”
Luke 9:23 (MSG)

If, like me, you have struggled or are struggling with the idea of carrying your cross, know that your Savior understands. He cried out in the Garden and pleaded with the Father to remove the suffering He was about to face. Although the Father didn’t remove the suffering, He did give Him everything He needed to endure it because of His tremendous love for you and me.

If God allows us to carry a cross He will give us what we need to carry it.

On today’s note write:

I will follow Jesus and trust Him to help me carry today’s cross.

May the Lord bless you today as you follow Him.

Click here to read the rest of Luke 9.

Thank you so much for joining me today.

And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

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Why Jesus Wanted to Spend Time with Sinners

3 / 11 / 213 / 11 / 21

Jesus came to offer Himself as a sacrifice to show people how much God loves them. Jesus wants to spend time with sinners to help them be more like Him. #Jesus #Blessings #BibleStudy #Sinners #CountingmyBlessings #WWGGG

There’s a story about a pastor who came to town and decided to give his new congregation a living parable.

As the story goes…

He dressed up as a homeless man and walked around the church for 30 minutes while people were arriving for the service. Hardly anyone looked at him and fewer spoke to him . . . until he went to sit in the front of the sanctuary and the ushers approached him and asked him to please sit in the back.

Whether the story is true or not, it makes a point doesn’t it?

There are people who feel like they need to “clean up” before they will be welcomed by Jesus because people who call themselves His followers have made them feel like they need to “clean up” before they will be welcomed by them.

That’s the message of Jesus’ call to Matthew in Luke 5.

People hated the tax collector. Pharisees called him “scum.”

Levi held a banquet in his home with Jesus as the guest of honor. Many of Levi’s fellow tax collectors and other guests also ate with them. But the Pharisees and their teachers of religious law complained bitterly to Jesus’ disciples, “Why do you eat and drink with such scum?”
Luke 5:29–30

But Jesus said…

“I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners and need to repent.”
Luke 5:31

He came to call sinners because we are ALL SINNERS!

We all need to repent. We need Jesus to “clean up” our acts.

And like Matthew (Levi) we have His invitation…

“Follow me and be my disciple.”
Luke 5:27

An invitation to repent and receive forgiveness, to spend time with Him and experience His love.

A Prayer to Thank Jesus for
Wanting to Spend Time with Sinners

Jesus, thank you for showing us the Father’s love for sinners. A love so great that He sent You to spend time with us, suffer and die for us. You won the victory over sin, death, and the power of satan through Your death and resurrection, so I can be clean.

It makes my heart sad when I think of all You experienced because of my sin. I am so very sorry. Please forgive me. Please give me all I need to “clean up” my life and live in ways that bring You glory. Not for me, but for You, Lord Jesus.

I don’t want people to see that I am good or “righteous.” I want them to see You in me. I want them to want to know You because they know me.

Jesus, thank you for wanting to spend time with me on my good days and on my less than good days. Your grace and mercy give me everything I need. I pray that You will guide me and help me spend my time in ways that show You how very much I love You. Help me love the way You love. Amen.

For those of us who have followed Jesus and been part of a church family for a long time . . . it can be easy to expect everyone to think and act a certain way. It can be easy to judge the people who are still being “cleaned up” by Jesus.

But that’s really all of us.

In church or out, we are all sinners who need to spend time with Jesus.

You and I are sinners called to follow Jesus . . . to love others and let them know that He wants them to follow Him, too.

On today’s note write:

I am a sinner with whom Jesus wants to spend time.

May the Lord bless you today as you spend time with Jesus and celebrate the truth of His love.

Thank you so much for joining me today.

And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

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The Most Important Thing to Know About Being a Good Disciple

2 / 15 / 211 / 28 / 21

What does it mean to be a good disciple? Some think it's being a good student, others think it's obeying the Commandments. But maybe it's something else... #Faith #BibleStudy #ReadtheBible #CountingMyBlessings #BlessingBloggers #WWGGG

What do you think it means to be a good disciple?

I was taught that to be a good disciple you needed to be a good student.

Although, learning what Jesus taught and studying God’s Word are an important part of discipleship, I believe there’s another simple definition that better explains what it means to be a good disciple…

Being a good disciple is simply a matter of following Jesus with a willing heart.
Life Application Bible Notes Mark 3:14ff

In Mark 3, Jesus chose and called His disciples.

Jesus went up on a mountain and called out the ones He wanted to go with Him. And they came to Him.
Mark 3:13

We talk about pastors and teachers being called but did you know that all disciples are “called?”

They are:

called to faith in Jesus.
called to serve Jesus.
called to trust and obey Jesus.

And responding to His call is not complicated.

It is recognizing the blessing that Jesus wants you and answering His call by saying…

“Yes, Lord, I love You. I want to follow You! Please help me by the power of Your Spirit and give me all I need to trust You and obey Your will.”

The good news is . . . this is a prayer God loves to answer. He doesn’t first require a special gift or ability. He doesn’t need us to clean up our act first.

He simply wants us to repent and turn to Him.

To…

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.
Luke 12:31

And trust His promise…

You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29:13

Will you pray with me as I ask God to help us SEEK Him with all our hearts and trust Him to give us everything we need to be good disciples?

A Prayer Asking God to
Make You a Good Disciple

Lord, I am a sinner in need of Your forgiveness, mercy, and healing grace. I am so sorry that I fail to love the way You want.

Thank you for calling me to be Your own. Thank you for wanting me to be Your disciple. I want to follow You. I want to be a good disciple.

I want to love You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. I want to love others the way I love myself. I want to obey Your commandments. Please help me. Fill me with Your Spirit and give me the longing to SEEK You with all my heart every day of my life. I want to love Your Word and sitting with You in prayer.

I want to trust and obey You with all that I am. And I believe, that by Your grace, this is a prayer You want to answer. I believe You will give me everything I need today. I surrender myself to You in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Friend, the enemy wants you to doubt the Lord and he wants you to believe that being a good disciple is up to you. The truth is . . . discipleship is about surrendering to the One who makes all things possible.

Those who Jesus’ called were not perfect nor did they have any special talents or abilities. They simply wanted to follow Him with willing hearts.

May that be our prayer today and every day.

On today’s note write:

Today, I will follow Jesus with a willing heart!

God bless you today as you SEEK Him and trust Him to give you everything you need to be a good disciple.

Thank you so much for joining me today.

And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

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How to Be a Living Bible Without Embarrassing Jesus

5 / 3 / 189 / 13 / 20

I finished reading the Old Testament this week.

Each time I work my way through the books of the Law, the historical books, the Psalms, and the prophets … I am overwhelmed with gratitude that the Lord of the universe wants us to know Him. Really KNOW Him!

And now, I’m settling in and sitting at the feet of Jesus.

The more I read the Bible – the more I want to read the Bible!

That’s why I wanted to talk about a comment exchange I had with another reader of David Rupert’s article – GQ Says the Bible is Overrated. Here’s What They Got Right.

I don’t comment as often as I’d like on posts because, well, I read hundreds of blogs posts each week. But this one…

As I read through the comments, I felt impressed to add my thoughts.

So, I wrote…

If the Bible is just another book then the author of the GQ article has a point. BUT – if the Bible is the inspired Word of God and used by the Holy Spirit to work in the hearts and minds of those who read and hear it, then it is the one book everyone should read. I began reading through it every year … ten years ago. This year, I’m reading it with all the Life Application Bible Notes. Every day I am overwhelmed with the message of God’s love for people who continually fail Him. It makes me want to know Him better, trust Him more, and love Him above all else. That is one life-changing book!

Later in the day, I received an email with this reply from another reader…

It’s not what you believe, its what you do that matters. that being said, most devout Christians are also some of the biggest jerks I’ve ever had the displeasure of meeting.

Ouch!

But she has a point.

So, I added this…

I’m so sorry you’ve had such negative experiences with Christians. Me too! We’re all flawed. Christians too! And as much as I want to live a life that honors God, I fail often. I need to say, I’m sorry to people and ask God for His forgiveness as well. I challenge you to read the Bible with an open mind. Don’t make your decisions about Jesus based on imperfect people. Our tendency to be jerks on occasion is the very reason we need Him. One more thing … some of the Christians I know are extremely kind and selfless. I really hope you get to meet some people like them, too!

What’s the point? Why am I sharing this with you?

Because dear friend, people are watching and listening.

I’m sure you’ve seen the quote:

“Be careful how you live. You may be the only Bible some person ever reads.” ~ William J. Toms

How to Be a Living Bible Without Embarrassing Jesus

Paul wrote:

Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. Ephesians 4:1–3

Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God. Ephesians 5:1–2

When I first came to you, dear brothers and sisters, I didn’t use lofty words and impressive wisdom to tell you God’s secret plan.For I decided that while I was with you I would forget everything except Jesus Christ, the one who was crucified. 1 Corinthians 2:1–2

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Philippians 2:3,5

I know there are many more verses but I’ll hold there as I’m feeling convicted; maybe you are too. If you’re like me, you know how often you’ve blown opportunities, and fallen short of loving like Jesus would have you love. I’m guilty of embarrassing Jesus!

And I’ll be honest with you, sometimes fear of falling short keeps me from saying anything at all because I don’t want to mess up.

But that’s not the answer either!

What is the answer?

Lead with love!

Before you say anything remember that everyone is someone who is precious to God and dearly loved by Him! Loved so much that…

Though He was God,
He did not think of equality with God
  as something to cling to.
Instead, He gave up His divine privileges;
He took the humble position of a slave
    and was born as a human being.
When He appeared in human form,
He humbled Himself in obedience to God
    and died a criminal’s death on a cross.
Philippians 2:6–8

Then tell people how much Jesus, who died for them, loves them. Point them to Bible that is able to tell them all about the God who loves them, and let the Holy Spirit do the convicting on what is right and wrong.

Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 1 John 4:7–8

I know…

It’s convicting!

I don’t love the way God wants me to; so, I’m praying and asking God to help me do better.

I’m asking Him to help me…

remember how much He has forgiven in me.
stay humble … knowing I don’t have all the answers.
listen with compassion.
think and pray before I speak.
stop and think before I leave a snarky comment online.
talk more about Jesus than “right” and “wrong.”
stop condemning “big” sins while excusing “little” ones.

I’m guessing you could add to this list.

I want people to look at my life and see the spiritual blessings of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

When you and I focus on trying to convince someone of the error of their ideas and/or actions without loving them we fail to show them love.

Think about the way Jesus talked to the woman at the well, the woman caught in adultery, and Zacchaeus.

With God’s help, we can do this. We can glorify God by loving like Jesus.

Father, please help us! In Jesus’ name and for His sake. Amen!

Thank you so much for joining me today.

And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.

If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

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How to Follow Jesus and Love Your Enemy

9 / 18 / 179 / 16 / 17

“I tell you, love your enemies.”

Seriously!

Did Jesus really mean love?

An enemy is defined as someone who feels hatred for, fosters harmful designs against, or engages in antagonistic activities against another.

And Jesus wants us to love them. Really?!

He didn’t leave us wondering what He meant by the word “love.” He went further and fleshed it out…

“To you who are ready for the truth, I say this: Love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer for that person. If someone slaps you in the face, stand there and take it. If someone grabs your shirt, gift wrap your best coat and make a present of it. If someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Live generously.Here is a simple rule of thumb for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you; then grab the initiative and do it for them! Luke 6:27–31 (MSG)

And if it still sounds too hard and you just don’t want to, (honestly, I don’t want to either but) look at Jesus next words.

“I tell you, love your enemies. Help and give without expecting a return. You’ll never—I promise—regret it. Live out this God-created identity the way our Father lives toward us, generously and graciously, even when we’re at our worst. Our Father is kind; you be kind.” Luke 6:35–36

When you and I want to fight back and get revenge or tell anyone who will listen how we’ve been wronged it just all seems like an impossible word to follow. So, I sometimes wonder if most of us have decided Jesus is asking the impossible.

And if we had to do it on our own, He would be.

But…

[Tweet “Jesus will never ask you to do something His Spirit is unable to help you accomplish.”]

Let’s take a closer look at some specific ways we can, with the Spirit’s help, love our enemies…

How to Follow Jesus and Love Your Enemy

1. Choose to Forgive

Forgiving is obedience. No excuses. No exceptions. Forgive. Not for them but for you. Forgiving will give you the freedom to live and love.

Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. Colossians 3:13–14

2. Know that God is the One Able to Change Them

It’s hard to admit that I am only able to change me. I can’t make someone love me. You can’t either. So, pray for them and leave the work of changing hearts to God. Let it go and trust God’s ability to change them and you.

A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth. 2 Timothy 2:24–25

3. Stop Complaining About Your Enemy to Your Friends

There are multiple sides to every story. You may find it helpful to talk about your feelings, but trashing the person who hurt you won’t help you long-term. Remember once you complain to someone else you have no control over what they do with what you’ve told them.

If you must complain, and if you’re like me . . . you must, take it to God. He loves you and wants to help heal your heart.

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues those whose spirits are crushed. Psalm 34:18

4. Ask for Help with Your Hurt Feelings and Anger

If you need to be with people . . . ask. If you need time alone . . . let people know. If you need someone to cry with you . . . tell them. Invite people to keep you in prayer. People won’t know what you need unless you ask. And You can tell someone you need help without giving them details.

I’ve learned to say, “I’m having a really bad day” or “my heart hurts right now” or “I need a hug!” Those who love me, understand and want to help without prying questions.

“Refusing to ask for help when you need it is refusing someone the chance to be helpful.” ~Ric Ocasek

5. Remember God may be Using This to Protect You

Maybe it’s a lesson you need to learn or a person who needs to have less influence in your life . . . you can still be kind and love them with healthy boundaries.

The awesome truth is that even in the hard moments when enemies betray and hurt us, we are not alone. Jesus, the One who told us to love even our enemies, has been there. He understands and He’s given us the gift of His Spirit to help see us through.

“He saw you cast into a river of life you didn’t request. He saw you betrayed by those you love. He saw you with a body that gets sick and a heart that grows weak. He saw you in your own garden of gnarled trees and sleeping friends. He saw you staring into the pit of your own failures and the mouth of your own grave. He saw you in your own garden of Gethsemane and He didn’t want you to be alone … He would rather go to hell for you than to heaven without you.”~Max Lucado

Finally, do something nice for your enemy.

I know, you don’t want to and I know it may not change a thing. But I promise it will change you. You’ll know you did the right thing . . . you walked in the footsteps of Jesus and you can trust His promise.

“Be easy on people; you’ll find life a lot easier. Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity.” Luke 6:38

How has God helped you love an enemy in the past?

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I’m always looking for stories that will encourage and inspire readers to live in faith, stay faithful in hope, and find joy in loving Jesus and others. If you’re interested in sharing your story here at Counting My Blessings – check out my Contributor Guidelines page.

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An Important Good Friday Question – How Do You See Jesus?

4 / 14 / 174 / 14 / 17

As you focus your heart and mind on Jesus suffering and death today…

I want to ask – an important Good Friday question.

How do you see Him?

Pleading and praying in the Garden of Gethsemane?

“My Father, if it is possible, do not give me this cup of suffering. But do what you want, not what I want.” Matthew 26:39

Broken and bleeding on the cross?

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them because they don’t know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34

Preaching and teaching followers on a hillside?

“They are blessed who realize their spiritual poverty, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to them.” Matthew 5:3

Being baptized in the Jordan River?

As soon as Jesus was baptized, He came up out of the water. Then heaven opened, and He saw God’s Spirit coming down on Him like a dove. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love, and I am very pleased with Him.” Matthew 3:16–17

As an almost teen, amazing teachers in the Temple?

They found Jesus sitting in the Temple with the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. All who heard Him were amazed at His understanding and answers. Luke 2:46–47

Giving life to a dead man?

He went up and touched the coffin, and the people who were carrying it stopped. Jesus said, “Young man, I tell you, get up!” Luke 7:14

Forgiving and giving hope to a Samaritan woman?

The woman said, “I know that the Messiah is coming.” (Messiah is the One called Christ.) “When the Messiah comes, he will explain everything to us.” Then Jesus said, “I am He—I, the one talking to you.” John 4:25–26

In the street triumphantly entering Jerusalem past cheering crowds?

So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet Jesus, shouting, “Praise God! God bless the One who comes in the name of the Lord! God bless the King of Israel!” John 12:13

Welcoming and blessing playful children?

Then Jesus took the children in His arms, put his hands on them, and blessed them. John 10:16

Protecting a woman caught in adultery?

He raised up and said, “Anyone here who has never sinned can throw the first stone at her.” John 8:7

Surrounded by hurting ill people waiting for miracles?

But the people learned where Jesus went and followed Him. He welcomed them and talked with them about God’s kingdom and healed those who needed to be healed. Luke 9:11

Washing His disciples’ feet?

Then He poured water into a bowl and began to wash the followers’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around Him. John 13:5

Feeding 5,000 with 5 loaves of bread and a couple fish?

All the people ate and were satisfied. Then the followers filled twelve baskets with the leftover pieces of food. There were about five thousand men there who ate, not counting women and children. Matthew 14:20:21

Transfigured and talking to Moses and Elijah?

While they watched, Jesus’ appearance was changed. His clothes became shining white, whiter than any person could make them. Then Elijah and Moses appeared to them, talking with Jesus. Mark 9:2–4

Toppling tables in the Temple courtyard?

Jesus went into the Temple and threw out all the people who were buying and selling there. He turned over the tables of those who were exchanging different kinds of money, and He upset the benches of those who were selling doves. Jesus said to all the people there, “It is written in the Scriptures, ‘My Temple will be called a house of prayer.’ But you are changing it into a ‘hideout for robbers.’” Matthew 29:12–13

Greeting Mary as she weeps for her brother?

When Jesus saw Mary crying and the Jews who came with her also crying, He was upset and was deeply troubled. John 11:33

Laughing with friends at the Wedding in Cana?

There was a wedding in the town of Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, and Jesus and His followers were also invited to the wedding. John 2:1–2

Resurrected from death?

The angel said to the women, “Don’t be afraid. I know that you are looking for Jesus, who has been crucified. He is not here. He has risen from the dead as He said He would. Come and see the place where His body was. Matthew 28:5–6

Showing His hands and side to Thomas?

“Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see, because a ghost does not have a living body as you see I have.” Luke 24:39

Calming the storm or walking on the sea?

Jesus answered, “Why are you afraid? You don’t have enough faith.” Then Jesus got up and gave a command to the wind and the waves, and it became completely calm. Matthew 8:26

Between three and six o’clock in the morning, Jesus came to them, walking on the water. Matthew 14:25

Ascending into heaven?

After the Lord Jesus said these things to His followers, He was carried up into heaven, and He sat at the right side of God. Mark 16:19

Sitting on the throne?

Then the twenty-four elders bow down before the One who sits on the throne, and they worship him who lives forever and ever. They put their crowns down before the throne and say:

“You are worthy, our Lord and God,
    to receive glory and honor and power,
because you made all things.
    Everything existed and was made,
    because you wanted it.” Revelations 4:10–11

Sitting beside you?

“I will be with you always, even until the end of this age.” Matthew 28:20

How do you see Him?

For almost 2000 years people have tried to capture Him in words, art, and film. But outside of the words of Scripture, the important thing is not how He is portrayed, but how you and I see Him.

It may vary, depending on the time, place, your needs or circumstances . . . but no question is more important. Today is the perfect day to ask yourself…

How do I see Jesus?

As the Messiah?

Then the high priest asked Him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” Jesus said, “I Am. And you will see the Son of Man seated in the place of power at God’s right hand and coming on the clouds of heaven.” Mark 14:61-62

As the Son of God?

Jesus did many other miracles in the presence of His followers that are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Then, by believing, you may have life through His name. John 20:30–31

As the Light of the World?

Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” John 8:12

As the Good Shepherd?

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices His life for the sheep.” John 10:11

As Life?

Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. John 11:25

As Truth?

Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:6

May your weekend be filled with His blessings and love as you prayerfully ponder who He is to you. May you see Him as the lover of your soul. The One who gave Himself to give you life . . . abundant life now and forever.

Please join me again next week for Faith ‘n Friends Link Party. I’m taking a sabbath from it this week as we focus on Jesus sacrifice and victory.

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What to Do When You Need an Attitude Adjustment

8 / 19 / 169 / 8 / 16

A very wise friend once said, “If everyone is annoying you and getting on your last nerve . . . you have to stop and think about the common denominator. Maybe the problem is you.”

How’s your attitude?

When I’m cranky and irritable it’s easy to blame everyone and everything. To look around and grumble . . . LIFE’s NOT FAIR!

Yes, it’s true I’m not always Polly Positive. Don’t judge me!

The fact is—life’s not fair.

So, you and I have a decision to make every morning. Am I going to let negative circumstances and situations make me miserable or am I going to fight self-pity with goodness?

What?

Fight self-pity with goodness?

What’s that?

Jesus showed people God’s goodness.

And Paul wrote the following to the people of Philippi:

You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Philippians 2:5

What does having an attitude like Jesus look like?

Paul went on:

Though He was God,
He did not think of equality with God
    as something to cling to.
Instead, He gave up His divine privileges;
He took the humble position of a slave
    and was born as a human being.
When He appeared in human form,
He humbled Himself in obedience to God
    and died a criminal’s death on a cross. Philippians 2:6-8

Talk about not fair!

Jesus stepped out of heaven into the limitation of time, space, and physical form because of love and goodness.

When You Need an Attitude Adjustment – Follow Jesus

Spend time alone with the Father

Knowing the right thing to do and when to do requires a close relationship with the One who knows the big picture and is able to guide and direct those who put their trust in Him.

Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer. Luke 5:16

Be strong and courageous

Goodness is not weak. It takes strength and courage to do the right thing and even more strength to do what is kind.

^{“The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1}

Be Humble

Humility begins with the Father. It recognizes who you are as His creation and child. It’s humility in you and me that helps us surrender to following and serving God.

But among you, it will be different. Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant. Luke 22:26

Have integrity

Be honest and consistent. Be whole and undivided. Be the same with rich and poor, young and old, influential or not. Be the same no matter where you are or who you’re with.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8

Be a friend

Take an interest in the people around you. Spend time with them. Show people Jesus’ love.

I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know what his master is doing. But I call you friends because I have made known to you everything I heard from my Father. John 15:15

Be kind and compassionate

Goodness shows itself by being kind and compassionate. It takes an interest in others and meets their needs as it is possible. Jesus showed people God’s love.

The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. Psalm 103:8

Trust the Father’s will

Surrender to God’s plan. Believe His will is best even when it’s hard . . . that’s obedience. For you and me that’s lived out loud faith.

“Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” Luke 22:42

Paul wrote the following words just a bit ahead of his words about having a Christ-like attitude:

Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from His love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate?Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. Philippians 2:1–2

Wouldn’t it be nice if it were easy?

I’ll be honest with you…

I have times when I don’t really want to have a good attitude. Times when I’d rather be self-indulgent, selfish, and self-absorbed.

I’m human.

Rev used to ask our Bible Study class who they thought about more than anyone else. Spouse? Children? Friends?

Nope.

We all think about ourselves most of all and I’ve learned it’s impossible to have a good attitude and enjoy happiness when I give in to selfishness.

The Truth

Want to be happy? You need an attitude adjustment.

Happiness is the result of a good attitude and a good attitude is a blessing of being focused on God, loving and trusting Him and with His help loving the people He puts around you.

That’s why when everyone is getting on your last nerve you need to look at the common denominator!

“The right attitude is this: that I have my own will, yet I will the will of God.” ~Watchman Nee

Now it’s time for…

Faith ‘n Friends Blog Hop

I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

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I’m excited to share the following posts with you this week.

Four Lessons for Every Woman at the Well

by Jen Avellaneda

@ Missional Women by Laura Krokos

and

How to Fight the Worry Monster

by Lyli Dunbar

@ 3-D Lessons for Life

Thank you, Jen, Laura, and Lyli, for joining the Blog Hop!

No More Rules Blog Hop

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab the Button or link back to CMB.

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When You Don’t Want a Cross-Carrying Kind of Faith

2 / 19 / 152 / 6 / 16

Then He [Jesus] called the crowd to Him along with His disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. Mark 8:34–35

That verse used to terrify me. I don’t know about you but I don’t want any part of cross-carrying. I want safe, calm, comfortable, secure . . . peace.

Yesterday was Ash Wednesday—the beginning of Lent. For the next six and a half weeks followers of Jesus will fast, pray, and ponder His journey to the cross.

And Jesus called His followers to deny themselves, carry their cross, trust and obey . . . lose their safe and secure for Him.

Have you ever wondered, maybe even worried about cross-carrying?

Worry is Simply Lack of Faith

I knew I was a fear-filled worrier. My doctor has described me as “high strung and anxious.” Seriously, I’ve had times when I turned worry into an art form. But really . . . look around. Have you seen all the truly terrible things that could happen?

Truthfully, I didn’t want to admit that my worry was really lack of faith. I wanted to think I was in control. If I worried or “thought something through” I could control the outcome. I could keep things safe. Peaceful.

But that isn’t the only verse that says life lived as a follower of Jesus may include crosses.

But the Lord said, “Go, for Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel. And I will show him how much he must suffer for my name’s sake.” Acts 9:15–16

For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in His steps. 1 Peter 2:21

If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. Matthew 10:38

But the truth I’ve learned is that if God allows a cross, He gives everything needed to carry it. Everything.

Giving Up Fear for Faith

“I have told you these things so that you won’t abandon your faith . . . I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

It’s true. There will be trials and sorrows. Worry doesn’t prevent it. Fear won’t keep it away.

I know. All my worry didn’t prevent hard and messy, but…

It’s a small yet important word, isn’t it?

“You will have trials and sorrows. But take heart, because.”

Take heart [don’t lose your faith], because…

I have overcome the world
I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.
Be sure of this: I am with you always.

Through every hard day Jesus was faithful, and because of His faithfulness my faith grew. Faith slowly became greater than fear.

My faith diminished when I focused on my fears, but grew when I kept my eyes on Jesus.

Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Hebrews 12:1–2

Faith focused on Jesus has everything it needs for cross-carrying. And in this life cross carrying will happen.

I think that’s what Jesus meant when He asked us to pick up our cross. He was calling us to LIVE. Because life includes hard days and messes. Life includes crosses. And all the worrying in the world won’t change that.

So, pick up your cross. LIVE. And trust God to give you everything you need to carry your cross.

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