Victorious Living - 15 June

We’re at the last day of the study. Let’s finish strong and listen to Paul as he tells us how to keep our minds focused on God.

I urge you, then, be imitators of me. 17 That is why I sent you Timothy, my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, to remind you of my ways in Christ, as I teach them everywhere in every church. 18 Some are arrogant, as though I were not coming to you. 19 But I will come to you soon, if the Lord wills, and I will find out not the talk of these arrogant people but their power. 20 For the kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power. 21 What do you wish? Shall I come to you with a rod, or with love in a spirit of gentleness?  1 Cor 4:16-21 (ESV)

We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ. 2 Cor 10:5 (ESV)

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2  Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. Col 3:1-2 (ESV)

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.  Phil 4:8 (ESV)

We need to guard our thoughts and keep them focused on Christ and not on our earthly problems. Paul reminds us that problems are not overcome by talk but by power – God’s power.

Some things to remember as we wrap up this study: we should not lose heart, no matter what happens. We have God’s grace. He will give us the strength.

God is with us.

God will not fail us.

God will not forsake us.

The battle is not ours, it is God’s.

God’s promises will never change.

The next time you go through a trial, act on these verses of promise and hope.

Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16  Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.  Heb 4:14-16 (ESV)

Friends, you can survive every trial. God promises it. Hold His hand. He is there for you. When you are in a trial, don’t forget to ask for prayer. Have the pastor pray; email me; put yourself on a church prayer list; pray with your kids and/or your spouse; find a supportive Christian to help you through. You are not alone. You’ve got me, and more important, you’ve got God.

May God bless you as you go through the summer season. It’s a time for friends, family, vacations and fun, but don’t forget God. make time to read His Word and pray every day. Reading and praying are two of the habits you need to develop. There are free Bible apps for Android and iPhone, some (such as YouVersion Bible), with multiple translations and speech so you can listen to the Bible during your daily commute.  

Don’t forget to check out the Bible reading blog, readthroughthebiblechallenge.blogspot.com.  I usually post once or twice a week and give you my thoughts (sometimes history) about the weekly reading. I pray that you will read your Bible, read the blog and offer your insights.

See you next week when we will begin to talk about ways to know you are in a real and authentic relationship with God. as always, the Bible will be our guide.