When grace fuels us to forgive someone who has offended us, we abundantly release every hint of any offence. When grace is cultivated in our relationship with a friend, an abundance of bountiful freedom marks our friendship. The same bountiful abundance occurs when grace is the motivating factor prompting our giving. In other words, living by faith includes giving by grace.
“Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly, not under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). “Cheerful” in Greek actually translated “hilarious.” God loves a hilarious giver—you give because you want to laugh out loud, because your heart is light.
I always thought I spent my 24 hours per day pretty well—I took time for work, play, friends and family, and had enough left for rest. So of course just as I was feeling proud of my time-keeping abilities, I got a new job.
Yes, God’s Word is our weapon, but its truth must permeate our own lives too. The greatest argument for, and against, the Truth of Christ is the way we, His followers, live. We are given the Sword of the Spirit to wield in the battle for Truth.
As Christians, most of us know that we fight on the frontlines of an invisible war. Unfortunately, there are many who do not realize that. They could be wounded, but nobody notices because they don’t actually bleed.
If Jesus promised an abundant, rich and satisfying life, how could He also promise many trials and sorrows? Aren’t those opposites? Why is the Christian life abundantly difficult at times?
The spiritual battle waged around me is not always apparent but the Bible gives me insight to potential danger. Scripture says Satan uses people disguised as those who are righteous. His mission is to sabotage my relationship with Christ.
Sexual promiscuity is neither new nor novel. It is as old as humanity, always promising more than it can deliver. More palatable words have replaced the obsolete and ugly ones. Inviting terms cause the ugliness of illicit sex to be veiled in mystery, fascination, and excitement.
Tragic situations are transformed when God steps in. And He takes the most (seemingly) insignificant things to transform. Underdogs become overcomers, weaknesses turn into strengths, and obstacles are nothing but opportunities that launch significant events.
Shame and pride keep our disabilities safely tucked out of sight. In shame, we fear the humiliation of finger-pointing when others see our weaknesses, and in pride, we suppose that a show of perfection will elevate us to heights of success and acceptance.
Insight for Living is committed to excellence in communicating the truths of Scripture and the Person of Jesus Christ in an accurate, clear, and practical manner so that people will come to an understanding of God’s plan for their lives, as well as their significant role as authentic Christians in a needy, hostile, and desperate world.
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