Destiny

Destiny

by | Jun 14, 2016 | Romans

Destiny | One Verse: A Journey Thru Bible.

Do you believe in destiny? The kind that resonates somewhere inside and stirs one’s whole being from the crown of the head down to the tips of the toes? God does. He has created destiny in you that says: born just as you are with a unique purpose.

Maybe there are some questions bubbling up when you consider the concept of destiny: “Who me? My sibling, best friend, co-worker or neighbor who is the special one not me.” Or, “I have a destiny but I’m not there yet. Maybe after I finish my education, find a job, settle down, then I will feel more like I have a destiny.”  Or even,”God’s got bigger things to worry about than giving me a destiny.”

Romans 12:6 MSG  “So since we find ourselves fashioned into all these excellently formed and marvelously functioning parts of Christ’s body, let’s just go ahead and be what we were made to be, without enviously or pridefully comparing ourselves with each other, or trying to be something we aren’t.”

How many times do we compare ourselves or try to be something we aren’t? Facebook, Instagram and media in general feed into the trap of comparison. When we aren’t careful we can get stuck comparing our lives to that of others.

Comparison robs us of discovering and celebrating the unique purpose  God has created for each of us. To get away from comparison we have to shift our perspective; we have to change the lense that we look through everyday. God’s invitation is to come just as we are, we don’t need what everyone else has. He has both formed and created us for the moment that we are in.

Consider these questions today:

1. How has God has created you with unique wiring, abilities and gifts?

2. When you consider your uniqueness how may this offer clues about your God created destiny?

3. Do you find that comparing yourself to others is easier to do than being who you are made to be? If so, how may God be inviting you to view yourself differently?

 

May the God of goodness, grace, redemption and love continue to light your path brightly as you journey to embracing your wholeness in Him.

Relational Wisdom

Relational Wisdom

by | Apr 26, 2016 | Proverbs

Proverbs 25:20 – “Singing light songs to the heavyhearted is like pouring salt in their wounds.” (MSG)

The God who created the Universe is a relational God who invites us to deepen our understanding of ourselves, one another and Him through His word. He cares about the health of our relationships. The Message version of Proverbs 25:20 says, “Singing light songs to the heavyhearted is like pouring salt in their wounds.”

Recall a time in your life when you have felt sad, discouraged or disappointed. Possibly someone tried to make light of what you were feeling at that moment in time. How did that experience feel? Or, maybe you have tried to make light of an issue or feeling that someone in your life was experiencing.

As human beings, God knew we would benefit from relational direction. He designed us to be in relationship with him and with each other. In His kindness, He provided us with grace-filled instruction on how to interact in community. His Word models kindness, gentleness and love towards one another.

Acting with understanding and compassion, we can offer healing to those around us. Healthy relationships house words that are a reflection of God and His promises. As Christ-followers our words should offer healing, not division.

Next time you encounter someone feeling down, remember the invitation to slow down and listen. Everyone benefits when a safe place is offered in an authentic relationship. As Brené Brown says, “If we are going to find our way back to each other, vulnerability is going to be that path”. In transparency and God-inspired compassion, find the path towards the authentic community.

Consider these questions today:

1. Have you discounted someone else’s circumstance or feelings lately? How can you encourage them?

2. Do you know someone that needs to be encouraged today? What words of grace and truth can you speak to them in their need?

3. Is there a relationship that you don’t extend grace in? How may God be inviting you to approach that situation differently?

May God illuminate your path with relational wisdom as you journey through your week. May His invitation to relate to Him and others overflow with more than you could ever hope for and imagine.

Relational Wisdom | One Verse