Living as God intended
Matthew 28:18 And Jesus came and spoke to them saying. "All Authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth . Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
To position ourselves and make ourselves ready for such a challenge requires us to maintain a close relationship to God. Seeking from him to reveal the gifts he has given to equip us as individuals and as the Church body for a time such as this.
One of the first steps is Prayer.
Prayer is breath for the spirit, intimate dialogue with the Father. It offers direction, comfort and peace. Intimate relationship with God can offer the true satisfaction and purpose that our hearts long for.
We were created by God to have a relationship with him and prayer is how we can deepen and strengthen our friendship with him.
Mark 1:35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Matt 18:19 Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my father in heaven. Acts 12:5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.
Secondly we should remain deeply in the living word of God. Scripture nourishes our mind and spirit, offering wisdom, guidance and clarity. The living word of God is powerful, and helps us to face life's challenges with Grace and courage.
Psalm 119:105 Your word is lamp for my feet, a light on my path.
Heb 4:12 For the word of God is alive and active. sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
As Christians we shouldn't live our lives in isolation. We need encouragement and opportunity to grow side by side with other believers. It is a reminder that we are part of a larger body - the Church, the body of Christ - called to reflect Gods love to a lost world.
Heb 10:24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another- and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Col 3:12 Therefore, as God's chosen people ,holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Rebecca Fortunatow