Being Like Jesus Christ – Changing the Face of Christianity

Put the Bible into Practice

August 19, 2014 By R. Brad White Leave a Comment

It’s important to not just read the Bible. We must put it into practice in our daily lives.

In Philippians 4:9, the apostle Paul urges us “whatever you have learned or receive or heard from me, or seen in me, put into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”

Here is an example. A few verses beforehand, in Philippians 4:6, Paul teaches us “Do not be anxious about anything…”. In this chapter he’s also talking about living with the joys Christ in our lives and being content with the ups and downs of life.

Do you want to remain anxious or stressed out about things or do you want the peace of God to be with you?

Like Paul, I urge you to exchange the anxiety and discontented feelings of this life with the peace that comes from God alone.

Are you a worthy disciple?

August 18, 2014 By R. Brad White Leave a Comment

I was reading Philippians 3:17 today where Paul encourages others to follow his example of pursuing Christ. In the study notes, it asked a wonderful question, “What kind of follower would a new Christian become if he or she imitated you?”

So a thought to consider today is what kind of disciple of Christ are you? What example are you setting for others? Is it an example worth following?

Love is an Action Plain and Simple

June 30, 2014 By R. Brad White Leave a Comment

“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” (1 John 3:18 NIV)

These are profound words from the apostle John. Such words are even more profound with some greater context.

Let’s back track to verse 17…
“If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” (1 John 3:17 NIV)

Having pity on someone in need goes beyond merely feeling bad for them. What help is that? I think this also goes beyond the knee jerk “I’ll pray for you” response.

Notice it says if anyone with material possessions… This clearly implies that if you have material resources to help, then help by providing those material resources. Right?

Another verse is highly relevant here from James:
“Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?” (James 2:15, 16 NIV)

Love is an action…plain and simple. If you and I aren’t loving in action, we aren’t loving. We are commanded to love God and love others. So don’t stop at “I’ll pray for you”. Love by giving what you have to help someone in need. Amen!

Ps, here is a link to a dear christian couple in need. Becky and Larry Knight are facing eviction from their home. Help (love them) if you can: http://www.gofundme.com/aa65w8

True Religion.

June 4, 2014 By Mark Bilton Leave a Comment

“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” (James 1:27)

What is religion all about? Is it worship on a Sunday? Is it working hard? Is it letting others know about Jesus? All these things are true, but what does God say is the real heart, pure and faultless religion that He accepts as true?

First, there is a demonstration of an inward transformation: “to look after orphans and widows in their distress.” Pure and simple, we have a significant God-given obligation to help the poor.

Second, we are called not to hide away from the world because this would make the first part impossible but to “keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” Live in the world and fully participate, but don’t take on its values and distortions.

Quick Prayer: Thank You that true religion has a practical application. Amen.

best regards and God bless,

Asked.

April 30, 2014 By Mark Bilton Leave a Comment

“Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.” (Mat 5:42)

How are we asked to respond to those in need around us? What is our response to be to those who ask for help? Give and do not turn away. As we open our hands, we open our hearts. As we walk in obedience, we open our hearts and our hands follow suit. It is a virtuous cycle of love and giving.

If we live our lives this way, God will pour out His provision as He finds vessels willing to be His hands and His feet with His heart. Ministering to those around us is not only telling them about Jesus but also demonstrating His heart by meeting the needs of those who need help.

Quick Prayer: I am available to bless someone today. Send me someone who needs help. Amen.

best regards and God bless,

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