God is Enough. (James)

Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted: But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away. James 1:9, 10

The phrase “of low degree” means one in humble circumstances; one of lowly rank or employment; one in a condition of dependence or poverty. It stands here particularly opposed to one who is rich; and the apostle doubtless had his eye, in the use of this word, on those who had been poor. (Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible)

Position doesn't matter. What does matter is one's relationship with Christ and knowing that no matter the situation, God is enough. 

God is enough. 

Is that a true? Is God enough in my life? 

 This post is the continuation of my Study of Colossians. 

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And you are in Him, made full and having come to fullness of life [in Christ you too are filled with the Godhead—Father, Son and Holy Spirit—and reach full spiritual stature]. And He is the Head of all rule and authority [of every angelic principality and power]. Colossians 2:10 (AMP)

"In Christ they find the satisfaction of every spiritual want" (Peake). There is no other place for Christ. He is first in time and in rank. All rule and authority comes after Christ whether angels, aeons, kings, what not. Robertson's Word Pictures of the New Testament

Satisfaction. Christ is all I need. But is He all I want? Am I satisfied with what Christ has to offer me? Think about that. Christ not only offered Himself as a sacrifice for my sins, He in His grace and mercy offers me His unconditional love, grace, and mercy. Is He enough? 

He should be. I should be content and overwhelmed with Christ Himself. Nothing more and nothing less. 

But that's just in the spiritual aspect, what about the physical? Christ is enough in that too. Or He should be. In light of eternity, what is important? I can't take things with me to Heaven. Anything I have here are earth, is from God. Those are blessings. 

And if SOMETHING, is more important than Christ, that THING has become an idol. Remember the 10 Commandments?

You shall have no other gods before or besides Me.

You shall not make yourself any graven image [to worship it] or any likeness of anything that is in the heavens above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth;

You shall not bow down yourself to them or serve them; for I the Lord your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generation of those who hate Me. Exodus 20:3-5 (AMP)

No other gods before or besides Me. "Other gods"—anything or anyone on whom I place more importance than God and His Word. If THINGS, take precedent and are more important that the satisfaction I can find in Christ–then those THINGS are idols. And that's a dangerous precedent to set. 

Satisfaction. Christ alone. In order to be completely satisfied with Christ, I must be permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31; MSG)

Have I Put On an Attitude of Uncomplaining (Longsuffering)

As I was studying Galatians 5;22, 23, I decided to see what other verses used the same words.

Longsuffering - attitude of uncomplaining

As I re-read Colossians this morning, I couldn't help but think of the two recent marches that took place in Washington D.C.: the "Women's March" and the "March for Life". 

In viewing photos, and hearing the videos of the speeches, there was a very clear difference in the Marches. Read the explanations of Colossians 3:12 below, and you decide which March displayed a Christlike attitude. 

As I read Colossians, I had to reflect on how do I clothe myself? Particularly, today as my focus in on longsuffering (attitude of uncomplaining) — what have I "put on"? 

This post was a from my Study of Colossians. (The Colossians Study begins here: http://createapositiveday.blogspot.com/2014/08/special-assignment.html)

Clothe yourselves therefore, as God’s own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper]. Colossians 3:12 (AMP)

Since you are all set apart by God, made holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with a holy way of life: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Colossians 3:12 (VOICE)

There is an old saying, "Clothes make the man." That means that people will judge others by the clothes you wear. We all react differently when we see people wearing different types and styles of clothes. A business suit not only makes a man stand taller, but it also brings respect. Compared to the sloppy baggy saggy pants which display an attitude of carelessness and brings disrespect. 

Paul isn't talking about the physical clothes we wear. Rather, he is talking about our behavior. The way we act is often more important as the physical clothes we wear. 

Clothe yourselves with a holy way of life. How exactly to I clothe myself with a holy way of life? It begins with realizing WHO I am—a chosen one of God. That is the basis for the entire way of life. Secondly, as a Child of God, I am to behave like one. And lastly, it's not about "me", rather it is about reflecting Who God is. 

PUT ON

bowels of mercies: it denotes inward pity and compassion to distressed, the most tender regard to persons in misery, and such compassion as is free from all hypocrisy and deceit, and therefore is expressed by "bowels"; and what is very large, and reaches to multitudes of objects, and is displayed and exerted various ways, and therefore signified by "mercies". 

kindness: which is this inward, tender, unfeigned, and abundant mercy put into act and exercise; this is doing good to all men 

humbleness of mind: looking upon themselves as the chief of sinners, in esteeming others better than themselves; in ascribing all they have, and are, to the grace of God; in doing works of mercy and righteousness without boasting of them, or depending on them; be ye clothed with humility 

meekness: which shows itself in not envying the gifts and graces, the usefulness and happiness of others, but rejoicing therein; in quietly submitting to the will of God in all adverse dispensations of This ornament of a meek and quiet, spirit is in the sight of God of great price. 

longsuffering: whereby a person patiently bears the evil words and actions of others, and is not easily provoked to wrath by them, but puts up with injuries, and sits down contented with the ill usage he meets with.

John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible

A holy way of life is only possible when my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31; MSG).

Over-spilling Joy

As I was studying Galatians 5;22, 23, I decided to see what other verses used the same words. 

This was from my Study of Colossians. 

"[We pray] that you may be invigorated and strengthened with all power according to the might of His glory, [to exercise] every kind of endurance and patience (perseverance and forbearance) with joy,Colossians 1:11 (AMP)

This verses continues to list of topics covered in their prayers. It's comforting to know that it is a fact that we each face troubles. But greater than the troubles is the strength and endurance that God gives... that comes with and produces joy. 

I like how verse 11 reads in The Message: "We pray that you’ll have the strength to stick it out over the long haul—not the grim strength of gritting your teeth but the glory-strength God gives. It is strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into joy."

Strength that endures the unendurable AND spills over into JOY. I wonder what would happen if I accepted God's strength to endure the unendurable.... and allow it to spill over with JOY! 

What a great prayer to pray for someone, knowing that it's possible!

God supplied-strength results in not just enduring and muddling through a situation, but rather enduring it being overwhelmed with joy!

And that God supplied-strength and over-spilling joy, begins with being permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31; MSG).

Thanks Living: Can't be Contained!

As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving. Colossians 2:6-7

Abounding: "all-around" which indicates abundance or surplus – exceed, go beyond the expected measure, i.e. above and beyond

In it (faith): in the realm (sphere) of, as in the condition (state) in which something operates from the inside conviction of the truth of anything, belief

With: as in the condition (state) in which something operates from the inside (within)

Thanksgiving: thankful for God's grace working out what is (eternally) good; grateful, which literally means "grace-ful (thankful) for God's grace"; actively grateful 

As I read Colossians 2:7 and came to that word, "abounding", I couldn't help but think of the videos of dogs so excited to see their "dads" come home from deployment. They just can't contain their excitement and joy. 

If dogs can show that much enthusiasm to their 'dads'; how much more joy and thanksgiving should I be expressing to God, my Heavenly Father? 

I like that meaning of "thanksgiving": actively grateful. Thanksgiving is to be an ACTION—it's a "doing" not a passive, still and silent.  

Abounding, go beyond the expected measure—above and beyond.

A true expression of gratefulness

can't be contained!

Thanks Living—above and beyond the expected—being actively grateful for God's love and mercy. 

Joy-Giver

If you are looking for the posts about

God's Amazing Blessing Announcement—I'm moving!

here's the link to the first Part: 

http://createapositiveday.blogspot.com/2015/05/announcement-part-1-im-moving.html

Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.

There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—

and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my study of Philemon. 

For I have derived great joy and comfort and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints [who are your fellow Christians] have been cheered and refreshed through you, [my] brother. Philemon 1:7 (AMP)

This verse shows the importance of encouraging and helping others. Philemon encouraged and gave joy to others and this in turn encouraged and gave Paul joy as he heard about what Philemon was doing. 

Philemon as a "joy-giver". That's a great reputation to have! Being a "joy-giver" begins with helping and encouraging those at home, then in your neighborhood, and then as word spreads can encourage others. 

Being a "joy-giver" starts with a heart right with God. Again this goes back the study of Colossians 3:1-17 "put on". And Philemon 1:5, "your love and of your loyal faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus". As one loves God and "puts on" the characteristics of God's love, then the result can be becoming a "joy-giver"!

A "joy-giver" begins with a heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG). For out of the heart filled with love and respect for God, will flow the joy and encouragement to all those around you. 

Diligent & Evidence

If you are looking for the posts about

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Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.

There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—

and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my study of Philemon. 

I give thanks to my God for you always when I mention you in my prayers,

Because I continue to hear of your love and of your loyal faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus and [which you show] toward all the saints (God’s consecrated people).

Philemon 1:4, 5 (AMP)

Paul once again mentions that he is praying for others. This such an important aspect in the Christian life, but so often neglected. I also like the fact that Paul lets others know that he is praying for them. What a great encouragement that is; to know someone is praying for you. 

Thanks to God:

A prayerful heart is keenly appreciative of the least evidence of Christian excellence, and joyfully thanks God as the Source and Giver of all good. Prayer and gratitude are usually blended together. 

Preacher's Complete Homiletical Commentary

Word travels fast... and even faster today with the internet! Paul continued to hear about the faith and love demonstrated. What a great thing to hear about another person; love and loyal faith! 

Love and Faith:

This faith embodies the theoretic principles of Christian life, while this love for saints embodies these principles on their practical side. Like heart and lungs in the body, each has its own functions; and, though separate, the one never acts apart from the other--life being the combined play of both. Faith binds to all Christian verities, translating them into personal convictions; while love binds to all Christian motives, translating these into personal activities--love being well called the daughter of faith and the mother of virtue and good works. A. H. Drysdale, M. A.

Am I praying diligently for others? Am I encouraging them, by telling them I'm praying for them? 

What are others hearing about me? Are they hearing about my love and loyal faith to God? Is the love I have for God evident to those around me? 

A heart that is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), will cause one to be diligent in prayer, and there will be evidence of a love for God in his/her life. 

Grace and Peace

If you are looking for the posts about

God's Amazing Blessing

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Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.

There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—

and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the beginning of my study of Philemon. 

Paul, a prisoner [for the sake] of Christ Jesus (the Messiah), and our brother Timothy, to Philemon our dearly beloved sharer with us in our work,

And to Apphia our sister and Archippus our fellow soldier [in the Christian warfare], and to the church [assembly that meets] in your house:

Grace (spiritual blessing and favor) be to all of you and [heart] peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah). 

Philemon 1:1-3 (AMP)

Philemon is a private letter from Paul sent to Philemon, most likely a resident of Colossae.

Paul begins and/or ends many of his letters with "grace and peace". 

Grace, the free favour and good-will of God, the spring and fountain of all blessings; and peace, all good, as the fruit and effect of that grace. From God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit also is understood, though not named; for all acts towards the creatures of the whole Trinity: from the Father, who is our Father in Christ, the first in order of acting as of subsisting; and from Christ, his favour and good-will as God, and the fruits of it through him as Mediator, God—man.

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all, Amen. Observe, Spiritual blessings are first and especially to be sought for ourselves and others.

The favour of God and peace with him, as in itself it is the best and most desirable good, so is it the cause of all other, and what puts sweetness into every mercy and can make happy even in the want of all earthly things. There are many that say, Who will show us any good? But, if God lift up the light of his countenance, this will put more joy and gladness into the heart than all worldly increase. The Lord lift up the light of his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. In this is summarily all good, and from this one fountain, God the Father, Son, and Spirit, all comes. 

Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible (Complete)

If my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31, MSG), than I will not only accept God's gifts of grace and peace, I will fully embrace them!

Questions

If you are looking for the posts about

God's Amazing Blessing

Announcement—I'm moving!

here's the link to the first Part: 

http://createapositiveday.blogspot.com/2015/05/announcement-part-1-im-moving.html

Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.

There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—

and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my Study of Colossians.

And when this epistle has been read before you, [see] that it is read also in the assembly (the church) of the Laodiceans, and also [see] that you yourselves in turn read the [letter that comes to you] from Laodicea.And say to Archippus, See that you discharge carefully [the duties of] the ministry and fulfill the stewardship which you have received in the Lord.I, Paul, [add this final] greeting, writing with my own hand. Remember I am still in prison and in chains. May grace (God’s unmerited favor and blessing) be with you! Amen (so be it). Colossians 4:16-18 (AMP)

First READ the letters. Important information for the church. This can be applied to us, as read the Bible. That's the only way to truly KNOW what the Bible says. 

Second, encourage Archippus, who was a minister of the Gospel. Encourage him and pray that he remain true to God's teachings as there were (are) many the false teachers.

Lastly, Paul reminds him that he is in prison but God's grace is sufficient for him and the Colossians. 

Questions. 

1. Am I reading God's Word so that I know what it says? 

2. Am I praying for and encouraging those in ministry positions so that they remain true to God's Word in their personal lives and as they teach others? 

3. Do I accept God's grace and realize that it is all sufficient, no matter my situation? 

In order to answer, "Yes" to each question, my heart must be permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31, MSG). 

Hospitality

If you are looking for the posts about

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here's the link to the first Part: 

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Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.

There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—

and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my Study of Colossians.

Luke the beloved physician and Demas salute you. Give my greetings to the brethren at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the assembly (the church) which meets in her house. Colossians 4:14, 15 (AMP)

Do you often wonder why certain people are mentioned in the Bible? I do. As I read these two verses, I thought of Nympha. She's only mentioned this one time, but look at what she is known for—the church that meets in her house. 

Think for a moment what that means. Paul was writing this letter from prison. He was in prison for preaching the gospel. And here we have a lady who is wiling to open her home for people to gather to pray and learn God's word. 

Practice hospitality to one another (those of the household of faith). [Be hospitable, be a lover of strangers, with brotherly affection for the unknown guests, the foreigners, the poor, and all others who come your way who are of Christ’s body.] And [in each instance] do it ungrudgingly (cordially and graciously, without complaining but as representing Him). 1 Peter 4:9 (AMP)

If you've been reading my blog for a while, you know the that God has just given me a Castle. This is the King of kings' Castle. Therefore, I want it to be used to honor God. And part of that includes hospitality. (To read about the Castle click here.)

It's easy to make excuses for not opening the Castle to guests. But it's the right thing to do. Nympha opened her home to other believers, and I should do the same. 

If my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God, I'll practice hospitality and open my heart and my home to others. 

Prayer a Priority

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Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.

There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—

and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my Study of Colossians.

For I bear him testimony that he has labored hard in your behalf and for [the believers] in Laodicea and those in Hierapolis. Colossians 4:13 (AMP)

Paul continues to talk about Epaphras (vs 12, the prayer warrior). 

For I bear him record: The apostle (Paul) was an eye and ear witness of his fervent prayers, his labour of love, and zealous affection for these saints and others; and therefore, as he judged he ought, he bears a testimony for him,

that he hath a great zeal for you: for their spiritual welfare, that the Gospel might continue with them, and they in that, against false teachers, and their attempts to subvert them; that they might grow in the grace of the Gospel, and walk worthy of it, and be at peace among themselves:

and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis: here were many believers, for whom Epaphras had a like zeal and affections as for the Colossians, and to whom very likely he had been useful, either in conversion or edification, or both. John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible

What an awesome testimony to have—a prayer warrior who has labored hard, who is zealous affection for other christians, and who makes prayer a priority. 

I often wonder what our Churches and Nation would be like, if we each were a bit more like Epaphras. If we made deep spiritual prayer a priority. If we went beyond the "get well", "feel better" surface prayers, and prayed earnestly for maturity and confidence in knowing God's will. 

Making prayer a priority and laboring hard on the behalf of believers—begins when my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG).

Prayer Warrior

If you are looking for the posts about

God's Amazing Blessing

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here's the link to the first Part: 

http://createapositiveday.blogspot.com/2015/05/announcement-part-1-im-moving.html

Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.

There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—

and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my Study of Colossians.

Epaphras, who is one of yourselves, a servant of Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. [He is] always striving for you earnestly in his prayers, [pleading] that you may [as persons of ripe character and clear conviction] stand firm andmature [in spiritual growth], convinced and fully assured in everything willed by God. Colossians 4:12 (AMP)

Prayer Warrior. Epaphras, was a man who prayed and not just "superficial" prayers. But specifically for the spiritual well-being of the Colossians. 

Prayer is vital in the Christian life. First personally praying, then praying for others. Often we neglect this unique and powerful opportunity God has given us. We can enter into the Throne of Grace at anytime to talk with God Almighty. We can share our thoughts, our hurts, our questions, our joys, our disappointments, our blessings—we can share it all with God. As we talk with God, our hearts need to be open to hearing and learning what God's will is regarding a situation. 

Praying for others, being a Prayer Warrior, is a ministry which we EACH can do. And not just "get well" or "help so-and-so", but deep spiritual prayers one for another. 

Epaphras focused on the character of the person. That goes back to Colossians 3:1-17 "put on". He then prayed that each person would KNOW God's Truth and His will acting in accordance with that knowledge. That's the substance of a true Prayer Warrior's conversation with God. 

It's been almost 15 years since I injured my back. And I have heard, more times than I can count, "I prayed that you'd be healed." or "I prayed for less pain." And I'm thankful that God is hearing my name. However, in that 15 years, I have rarely heard that "I prayed for your spiritual well-being." Or "I prayed that you would grow in God's grace as you live in pain." 

Praying for the physical well-being is not a bad thing, but it's only part of the person. Praying for the spiritual well-being is vital. Look at what Epaphras prayed (vs 12). 

He prays for your spiritual journey, that you will continue to mature and stand tall in the kind of confidence that comes from knowing God’s will. Colossians 4:12 (VOICE)

Maturity and confidence from knowing God's will. As we each mature and gain confidence in knowing God's will, our lives will change and we will be able to handle the journey God has for us—no matter what that journey is. 

If I want my prayer life to move from the surface prayers to deep conversations with God, and if I want to be a true Prayer Warrior, my heart must be permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG). 

Description

If you are looking for the posts about

God's Amazing Blessing

Announcement—I'm moving!

here's the link to the first Part: 

http://createapositiveday.blogspot.com/2015/05/announcement-part-1-im-moving.html

Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.

There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—

and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my Study of Colossians.    

And with [him is] Onesimus, [our] faithful and beloved brother, who is [one] of yourselves. They will let you know everything that has taken place here [in Rome].

Aristarchus my fellow prisoner wishes to be remembered to you, as does Mark the relative of Barnabas. You received instructions concerning him; if he comes to you give him a [hearty] welcome.

And [greetings also from] Jesus, who is called Justus. These [Hebrew Christians] alone of the circumcision are among my fellow workers for [the extension of] God’s kingdom, and they have proved a relief and a comfort to me. Colossians 4:9-11 (AMP)

Paul continues with a list of friends and how they encourage and minister to him. The descriptions he uses are evident of each man living a God-honoring life. 

If someone was writing about me, what characteristics would they use? How would they describe me? Could they say that I'm faithful? Should others embrace me and welcome me, because I am living a God-honoring life? Do I encourage and comfort others? 

More importantly, if God was writing about me, what would He say? I wrote about this on Colossians 1:7, "What would be written about me?". 

Living a life that is godly is not only God-honoring, but has an impact on those around us. We are to be encouraging other believers, comforting them, and interacting with them. Just as we do this for believers, we are also to be doing it for unbelievers, so that they can see the love of God. 

Only when my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God, will my life be described as faithful, encouraging, and God-honoring. 

A Positive Report

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There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—

and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my Study of Colossians.    

I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are faring and that he may comfort and cheer and encourage your hearts. Colossians 4:8 (AMP)

The results of sharing a positive news report is comfort, cheer and encouragement! It's always great to hear a "positive report" on someone. Paul wanted the Colossians to know how he was doing. So he sent a message with Tychicus. 

As I read this verse, I had to stop and think of the conversations I have with others. Are my words comforting? Do I cause cheer? Do my words encourage others? Are my conversations positive? Or are my words divisive? Do my words cause strife? Do my words cause discord? Am I sharing only the negative? 

Words are powerful. The words I share can create an atmosphere of peace or war. Remember Colossians 4:6? Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with the grace of God. 

Paul could have complained to the people of Colossians. He had suffered much because of sharing the gospel of God. Paul wanted to share how well he was doing—and that is because Paul had a positive attitude of what God was doing. We know from other writings of Paul, that Paul knew how to be content no matter his situation. He sang praises from prison. Paul knew that God was greater than any situation he found himself—therefore, Paul could be positive! 

So Paul shared how he was doing, and used a trustworthy messenger to share a positive report to encourage others. 

If I want to my conversations to be positive, it all begins with a heart permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG). For no matter my situation, I know that God is in control. Therefore, I can focus on the positive and encourage others by sharing God's amazing love.

In Living Action

If you are looking for the posts about

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Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.

There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—

and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my Study of Colossians.    

Tychicus will give you full information about my affairs; [he is] a much-loved brother and faithful ministering assistant and fellow servant [with us] in the Lord. Colossians 4:7 (AMP)

As I read this verse, I thought of the word, "trust." Paul knew of Tychicus' relationship with Christ, and how Tychicus conducted himself. Therefore, Paul knew he could trust Tychicus to deliver a message to the Colossians. 

Paul could trust Tychicus because he was FAITHFUL. In other words, Tychicus was a great example of Colossians 3—in living action. Tychicus "put on" all that Paul described. Tychicus relationships with others was godly. Paul could trust Tychicus because he proved himself to be dependable.

Ephesians 6:21

Tychicus, a beloved brother, and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things. Tychicus accompanied the apostle in his travels. Paul calls him "a beloved brother": he was a "brother", because he was a partaker of the same grace, was of the same family and household of God, and was a "beloved" one: he was beloved of God and Christ. Paul also styles Tychicus "faithful minister in the Lord"; he was a "minister" in things pertaining to the Lord. And a greater character Tychicus could not well have; and therefore it need not be doubted but that he would faithfully relate all things concerning the apostle, and what he said might be depended on as truth. 

John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible

Tychicus is Colossians 3 in living action. His relationship with Christ, was evident throughout his life. 

Is my live Colossians 3 in living action? Am I faithful first of all to Christ, and then to others? Am I dependable? 

My heart must be permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), if I want to be able to be Colossians 3 in living action.

Speech that Reflects God Almighty

If you are looking for the posts about

God's Amazing Blessing

Announcement—I'm moving!

here's the link to the first Part: 

http://createapositiveday.blogspot.com/2015/05/announcement-part-1-im-moving.html

Then follow the arrows at the bottom of each post to the next Part.

There are 10 parts in all.

I recommend that you read each part, there are amazing details—

and God took care of each and every one! 

______________________________________________

This post is the continuation of my Study of Colossians.    

Let your speech at all times be gracious (pleasant and winsome), seasoned [as it were] with salt, [so that you may never be at a loss] to know how you ought to answer anyone [who puts a question to you]. Colossians 4:6 (AMP)

Let your speech: Your conversation.

Be alway with grace: It should be such as religion is fitted to produce; such as to show that the grace of God is in our hearts. It means that our conversation should be such as to show that we are governed by the principles of religion, and that there is unfeigned piety in the heart. So as to show that the soul is under the influence of love to the Redeemer.

Seasoned with salt: That our conversation should be seasoned with piety or grace in a way similar to that in which we employ salt in our food. It makes it wholesome and palatable. 

That ye may know how ye ought to answer every man: Be imbued with the spirit of piety, that you may not utter any thing that would be rash and foolish, but be prepared to answer anyone who may question you about your religion in a way that will show that you understand its nature, and that will tend to edification. If he addresses you in a haughty, insolent, and overbearing manner, you will be able to repress the risings of your temper, and to answer him with gentleness and kindness.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible

Speech. Conversation. And yes, this includes Facebook, Twitter, texting, emails, and other forms of communication. 

When we communicate it should be through the filter of God's grace. Each word we speak (write), should be such that it reflects God Almighty. 

That does not mean that we can't talk about Sports, or the weather, or other topics. Rather when we are speaking about ANY and ALL topics, our conversation is one that will still honor God. We must make sure that we are speaking THE truth—not embellishing, or gossiping, or slandering .... the list can continue. 

Speech that reflects God Almighty. When certain people are present, our speech is altered. For example, most people won't swear in the presence of a Clergyman or Priest. If we wouldn't say something in the presence of a human, then why would be think it ok to say it at all? For God Almighty is ALWAYS present! 

Is my speech reflecting my relationship with God Almighty? Are the things I'm "liking" and reposting on Facebook and Twitter reflecting God's grace? Am I speaking the truth? Am I gossiping? 

Only when my heart is permeated with a deep sense of God's reverence (Acts 9:31 MSG), will my speech reflect God Almighty.