Hello Sisters!
Some
scriptures are long, and some are short -- but all are HUGE with truth. This month's
guiding scripture is brief but, oh so, power-packed!
Be alert
and self-controlled.
How does
this apply to your life? Well, let's look at the two components of this warning from the
Apostle Paul in his letter to the church at Thessalonica.
Be alert.
Alert to what? There are all kinds of traps out there to confuse you, distract you, harm
you, and keep you from a close relationship with God.
Here are
just a few traps to which you must be alert!
* False
teachers with alluring but deceitful doctrines.
* Hucksters trying to convince you that you should look a certain way, drive a certain
car, live in a certain house, wear a certain brand of clothing.
* Media-types assuring you that greed, violence, extra-marital sex, and corruption are
okay. |
Guiding Scripture...
Be transformed by the
renewing of your mind.
Romans 12:2
In addition to Romans 12:2,
this
month's scripture is God's perfect
direction for becoming the
woman God wants you to be!
Be alert and self-controlled.
1 Thessalonians 5:6
Write this scripture down and post it in a frequented area so it will become a part of
your mind, your heart, and your soul. |
You must be self-controlled to not fall prey to these traps.
Now, here's a truth. Paul would not have said to be
self-controlled if you were incapable of doing so. Remember, ALL things are possible with
Jesus. He gives you strength to withstand all the wiles of the devil, the devil who wants
nothing more than to cause a broken relationship between you and God.
So...how do you do it?
First, recognize the traps. Be alert to them!
Second, take action. Resist actions and attitudes
that you know are not beneficial. Do you really need another pair of shoes? Would Jesus
want you to watch that particular movie? Is hoarding stuff causing you to be a clutcher of
things?
Sisters, the most important way to be alert to the
snares of the world and ways to exercise self-control over them is to read God's word
daily. You will gain knowledge of God's commandments and ways to become empowered with the
strength and comfort of the Holy Spirit. In addition to reading Scripture, be sure to pray
often. Tell God what's on your mind and let Him guide your life. Fellowship with others
who live by a Biblical worldview. |
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