Faith, now there’s a character trait! You gotta have hope in something greater than yourself; something to believe in. I’m stepping out in mine.
When I first started writing this blog, it wasn’t my intent to begin talking about my faith, right out of the gate, but I guess it was inevitable. Someone once told me I wear my faith on my sleeve. If you know me, you know I’m a person of faith. I don’t usually spout Scripture and I won’t shove it down your throat, but I’m not afraid to talk about Jesus, or God or the Holy Spirit. My faith is who I am. It’s what makes me, me.
I love to listen to Christian music. I read Christian books, especially books about saints and people who have faithfully served God. I work for my church. I try to stay connected to Jesus every day because I love Him. My peace and joy come from the Lord. I’m not bragging, just sharing what I know and what works for me. It’s good to learn what works for others and try it to see if it would work for us.
There are two commandments. 1. Love God. 2. Love others. I believe that is our mission here on earth. We can learn about and put on new character traits and virtues all we want, but if we don’t have love to go with it, it’s all for nothing.
This world is crazy and scary and seems out of control for those who have no hope or faith. It can be overwhelming, even for those who do have faith. But if you have faith in Christ, you know and trust that He has all this under control.
Good and evil. Love and hate. Heaven and hell. God and Satan. These things are real. We get to choose between them every day. God gives us free will. Jesus came that we might choose to have life and have it more abundantly. Eternal life is His promise. We have to learn to make good choices. Choose the better part. Think, “What would Jesus do or want me to do in this situation?” One day at a time. One choice at a time.
We are sure to make mistakes because that’s just who we are. We are sinners. That’s why we need a Savior. Jesus is full of mercy, grace and forgiveness. He loves us all so much. We just need to trust Him.
I was a little timid about posting this subject this early in my blogging career, but I’m trusting that Jesus will bless me (and you) for it. And just so you know, I’ve prayed over this post. God is going to use this for His good purpose. This is where the stepping out in faith comes in.
Here’s the faith activity sheet to inspire you to go a little deeper in your faith. Start small and build a better relationship with Christ. Find someone to encourage you in your walk. We are all on a faith journey, in different places. It’s not a one-size- fits-all kind of faith. It takes time to grow.
Let me leave you with a blessing for the New Year:
“The Lord bless you and keep you! The Lord let his face shine upon you and be gracious to you! The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace! So shall they invoke my name upon the Israelites, and I will bless them.” —Numbers 6:24-27.
Thanks to all my friends and family for following along. This is a message that many need to hear. If you don’t mind, please share it with your friends. God bless. Happy New Year!