Balancing Life’s Demands: Finding Peace in God’s Love
Balancing Life’s Demands: Finding Peace in God’s Love
Do you ever feel like the demands of life are pulling you in every direction, leaving you exhausted and overwhelmed? Between work, family, relationships, and trying to take care of yourself, it’s easy to feel like there just isn’t enough time in the day. I get it. I’ve been there too.
But I want you to know something: You’re not alone in this. In fact, I’m here with you, offering encouragement and hope. And, more importantly, God is with you—right now, in the middle of all the busyness, the stress, and the chaos. He sees you. He understands you. And He is inviting you to come to Him for support, guidance, and love.
Life’s Balancing Act
We often talk about “balance” like it’s something we can achieve perfectly—if only we had more time, more energy, or if everything would just fall into place. But the truth is, balance isn’t about doing it all. It’s about knowing where to place your focus and relying on God’s strength instead of your own.
In Matthew 11:28, Jesus offers us this beautiful invitation:
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 NKJV)
Rest in God’s love is different from the world’s version of balance. It’s about trusting that, even when things feel out of control, God is at work in every aspect of your life. He never intended for you to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. He wants you to bring those burdens to Him.
Embracing God’s Peace
I know it can be hard to let go, especially when you have responsibilities that feel so important. But what if I told you that God cares more about you than anything you could ever accomplish? He cares about your heart, your well-being, and your relationship with Him.
Here’s what you need to know, dear sister: You are loved. You are valued. Not for what you can do, but for who you are—a daughter of the King. His love for you is unshakable, even when your to-do list seems endless or when you feel like you’re falling short. He’s inviting you to lay it all down and to trust Him to guide your steps.
In Philippians 4:6-7, we’re given a powerful promise:
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV)
Imagine living with God’s peace as your foundation. What would it look like to wake up each day knowing that He is in control and that He is your strength? That’s the kind of balance God offers—balance that comes from faith, trust, and surrender.
Leaning on God’s Strength
When life feels overwhelming, it’s a reminder to come back to the One who sustains us. As you go about your day, take time to pause and connect with God. He’s always there, waiting for you with open arms, ready to give you the wisdom, strength, and peace you need.
Here are a few steps you can take to invite God into the balancing act of your life:
- Start with Prayer: Begin each day by surrendering your plans to God. Ask Him to guide your steps and help you prioritize what truly matters.
- Seek His Peace: When you feel anxious or overwhelmed, stop and breathe. Pray for the peace that surpasses all understanding, and remember that God’s presence is with you, even in the busiest moments.
- Rest in His Love: Trust that your worth isn’t found in how much you accomplish. God loves you deeply, and nothing can change that. Rest in His love, knowing that He will carry you through.
A Gift for You: Scriptures & Journaling Prompts
To help you deepen your connection with God and reflect on His love and care, I’ve created a special gift for you—a PDF download with scriptures and journaling prompts designed to support you as you navigate life’s demands.
This resource includes a list of encouraging Bible verses from the NKJV that you can meditate on when you need strength and peace, as well as journaling prompts that will help you gain a greater understanding of yourself, your emotions, and God’s love for you.
You can use these prompts to:
- Reflect on how you’re feeling and what’s weighing on your heart
- Explore how God’s love is present in your life, even in the midst of challenges
- Write out prayers of surrender, asking God for guidance and peace.
You’re Not Alone
My dear friend, I want to remind you that you are not alone in this journey. Life can feel overwhelming, but God’s love is stronger than any challenge we face. He invites you to lean on Him, to trust Him, and to find rest in His unending grace. He is with you, and I’m with you too—cheering you on, praying for you, and believing in the incredible things God has planned for your life.
Let’s walk this journey together, trusting God to help us balance life’s demands with His peace and love as our foundation.
With love and encouragement,
Susan Gregory
Are you ready to rock your faith life?
Join Susan Gregory and other committed followers of Christ to become the amazing creation God made you to be.
How to Build Faith and Trust in God During Difficult Times
How to Build Faith and Trust in God During Difficult Times
I know how hard it can be to hold onto your faith when life feels overwhelming. It’s in these moments that our trust in God is truly tested. But please know you’re not alone. Together, we’ll explore how to build and sustain your faith, even in the most challenging times.
Understanding the Nature of Faith
Faith is not just a decision you make once; it’s a journey you’re on every day. Sometimes your conviction will feel strong, and at other times, it may waver. That’s completely natural. I want you to know that these shifts in your faith are part of the process, and they can actually make your trust in God stronger. Remember, faith grows when you nurture it with love, patience, and perseverance.
Embrace Your Feelings
When you’re facing challenges, it’s so important to acknowledge and embrace your emotions. It’s okay to feel hurt, scared, or confused. Bottling up these feelings only leads to more anxiety and can make you feel distant from God. Here’s how I suggest you navigate these emotions:
- Acknowledge Your Struggle: Start by admitting the difficulties you’re facing. This is the first step toward healing.
- Express Your Feelings: Whether through prayer, journaling, or talking with a trusted friend, let those bottled-up feelings out. You’ll feel a sense of freedom and relief.
- Seek Support: Surround yourself with kind, empathetic people who understand what you’re going through. They can offer encouragement and new perspectives that might be just what you need.
Draw Upon Scripture
Scripture is a treasure chest of comfort and wisdom, especially when you’re struggling. I encourage you to spend time with verses that speak to your heart. Here are a few that have brought me peace during my own tough times:
- Psalm 34:18: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
- Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.”
- Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Your Turn
If you’re seeking ways to keep your faith strong, especially during difficult times, I’d love to share something special with you. Consider joining my “Daily Faith Reflections” email series. Each day, Beginning today and for the next week, I’ll send you a scripture verse, a short reflection, and a prayer that I hope will help you stay grounded and connected to God. I’d be honored to walk this journey with you. Simply click HERE to get started.
Final Thoughts
Building your faith during challenging times isn’t easy, but I’m here to tell you it’s possible. By understanding that faith is a journey, embracing your emotions, and leaning on scripture, you can cultivate a deeper, more resilient trust in God. I’m with you every step of the way. And remember this truth always: your God treasures your more than you can imagine. He’s for you and wants the best for you. Talk with Him and know for sure that He’s right here for you.
Are you ready to rock your faith life?
Join Susan Gregory and other committed followers of Christ to become the amazing creation God made you to be.
Five Favorite Christian Books
Are you seeking spiritual nourishment and growth in your faith journey? Look no further! In this blog post, I’m thrilled to share my personal top five Christian books that have profoundly impacted my life. These books delve into various aspects of Christian living, offering timeless wisdom and guidance for individuals seeking a deeper connection with God. Let’s explore each one:
The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence
Brother Lawrence, a 17th-century Carmelite monk, shares his profound insights on cultivating a constant awareness of God’s presence in every moment of life. Through simple yet profound teachings, Brother Lawrence teaches readers how to experience God’s love and guidance in the midst of daily activities, transforming ordinary tasks into opportunities for spiritual growth.
For me, I treasure that this book of a few pages packs a powerful message of abiding in Christ each moment. I read it at least once a year. It’s very special. Get it on Amazon
Humility: The Beauty of Holiness by Andrew Murray
Andrew Murray explores the essential virtue of humility and its transformative power in the Christian life. Drawing insights from Scripture and personal experiences, Murray reveals how embracing humility leads to a deeper intimacy with God and a life filled with His grace and blessing.
I remember the first time I read Humility. The truth expressed in the few pages invited me into a deeper level of love and submission to Jesus. Get it on Amazon
Celebration of Discipline by Richard J. Foster
Richard J. Foster presents a comprehensive guide to spiritual disciplines, offering practical insights on cultivating a balanced and vibrant Christian life. From prayer and fasting to meditation and simplicity, Foster explores various disciplines that deepen our relationship with God and foster spiritual growth.
Now considered a classic, Celebration of Discipline is timeless and especially helpful today for those who want more peace, tranquility, and substance in their journey in faith. Get it on Amazon
The Pursuit of God by A.W. Tozer
A.W. Tozer invites readers on a journey of seeking God with fervent passion and unwavering devotion. In this classic work, Tozer explores the attributes of God and the path to encountering Him in a profound and life-transforming way. Through insightful reflections and heartfelt prayers, readers are inspired to pursue God with all their heart, mind, and soul.
I especially like Tozer’s writing style. It’s profound, yet casual. He dishes up powerful truths in a simple way that are understandable and actionable. Get it on Amazon
The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom
Corrie ten Boom’s gripping memoir recounts her experiences during World War II, including her family’s courageous efforts to hide Jews from the Nazis and their subsequent imprisonment in concentration camps. Amidst unimaginable suffering and hardship, Corrie discovers the power of faith, forgiveness, and God’s unfailing love, inspiring readers to trust in Him even in the darkest of times.
Even though World War II may seem like a long-ago event, and even though Corrie ten Boom passed many years ago (1983), her life story is a testimony of our faith. She shared her many struggles as she pursued a deep love for the Lord amidst man’s inhumanity toward man. Get it on Amazon
These five Christian books offer invaluable insights and inspiration for individuals seeking to deepen their faith and walk closer with God. Whether you’re looking to cultivate a deeper prayer life, embrace humility, or find strength in times of adversity, these books provide timeless wisdom and guidance for your spiritual journey. Dive into these enriching reads and experience the transformative power of God’s love in your life!
Are you ready to rock your faith life?
Join Susan Gregory and other committed followers of Christ to become the amazing creation God made you to be.
You Are Gods Favorite
As a Christian, it’s essential to understand that you are not just an ordinary person. You are God’s special and chosen people. The Bible teaches that God has a unique plan for your life, and you walk in His favor. Through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, you can access the many blessings God has prepared for you. Explore here what it means to be God’s favorite and how you can live a life that reflects this truth.
Chosen and Special
The Bible says that Christians are chosen and special to God. 1 Peter 2:9 says, “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” This verse highlights how God chose you to be His own special people, set apart for His purposes.
As a Christian, you are part of a chosen generation, a group of people selected by God for a specific purpose. You are part of a royal priesthood, meaning that you have direct access to God and the ability to minister to others. You are part of a holy nation, meaning you have been set apart for God’s purposes and called to live a life that honors Him. You are God’s own special people, and He loves you unconditionally. He is your God, but He is also your Father. Christ made it possible for you to join the family of God and to develop that intimate Father-child relationship.
Walking in God’s Favor
Because you are God’s favorite, you walk in His favor. Psalm 5:12 says, “For You, O Lord, will bless the righteous; with favor, You will surround him as with a shield.” This verse tells us that God blesses those who are righteous and surrounds them with His favor as a shield.
Christ made you the righteousness of God: “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” (2 Corinthians 5:21)
God’s favor is not something that you can earn through your own efforts. It’s a gift that God gives to His children because He loves them. When you walk in God’s favor, doors open, opportunities arise, and blessings flow. You experience joy, peace, and contentment because you know God is always with you and wants the very best for you.
Access to Blessings
Because of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, you can access the many blessings God has prepared for His children. Ephesians 1:3 says, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ.” This verse tells us that God has already blessed us with every spiritual blessing in Christ.
As a Christian, you can access blessings such as forgiveness, redemption, salvation, and eternal life. You can experience God’s love, peace, and joy. You have the Holy Spirit to guide, comfort, and empower you. You can receive healing, financial blessings, answers to your prayers, and the favor of God for all you need. You have a purpose and a destiny that God has planned for you. All of these blessings are available to you because of what Christ did on the cross.
Living as God’s Favorite
God has done His part. Then we must do ours. To live as God’s favorite, you need to believe and receive what God has already done for you. You need to accept that you are chosen, special, and loved by God. You need to walk in His favor and trust that He has a plan and a purpose for your life. You need to access the blessings that Christ made possible and live a life that reflects God’s goodness and grace. All the promises of God found in His Word are yours to receive.
Living as God’s favorite also means living a life that honors God. You need to obey His commands, follow His ways, and serve Him with all your heart. You need to love others as God loves you, forgive those who have wronged you, and show compassion to those in need. You must live a life that points others to God and proclaims His praise.
Conclusion
As a Christian, you are God’s favorite. You are chosen, special, and loved by God. You walk in His favor and have access to the many blessings that Christ made possible. To live as God’s favorite, you need to believe and receive what God has already done for you, access the blessings that He has prepared, and live a life that honors Him.
Download verses for meditation to help you understand more deeply your true identity as God’s favorite and acquaint you with the rights you have as His child.
Click here to receive You Are God’s Favorite.
Learn to Live a Life of Faith.
If you want to dive in and develop a lifestyle of faith – a kingdom of God kind of daily life – then check out our Faith Driven Life Community. Just click on the link below:
Click Here to Learn More
Five Loving Ways to Keep Christ in Christmas
The Christmas season is one of my very favorite times of the year. Folks seem to be in happier moods. Houses in my little town are all adorned with lights and decorations. Lots of fun gatherings and also creative events (I just made a Christmas gnome out of clay and created fused glass ornaments a week ago).
Also, my heart is filled with joy as I give gifts to family, friends, and those in need. I like the planning, the shopping, the wrapping, the presenting, and the happiness of giving and receiving.
However, and my guess is that you get this part also, with all the hustle, bustle, activities, rush, and commercialism, it’s easy for Jesus to get pushed out of the celebrations. To prevent that, we can be intentional about inserting purposeful actions, so we acknowledge Christ in our hearts and re-present Him through loving deeds and acts of kindness.
Here are a few ideas that you may want to consider. Or perhaps these ideas will spark other actions that can work for you.
One – create a gift box for a needy family.
Sadly, so many families struggle, and this can all be amplified during holiday times. You can contact community service agencies in your area to learn how to give gifts. You can also discover what the most significant needs may be. For example, the agency I donate to serves a lot of single mothers with young children. I regularly give disposable diapers (I purchase them in big quantity boxes, and the agency breaks them up into smaller portions).
A special memory I have was when my children and I shopped for a family in need. We learned of the gender and ages of the children so we could give appropriate gifts. We included Christmas decorations, candy, games, toys, and treats for the mother. We put everything in a big plastic bin that we hoped they could use in the future. I truly believe the love of Jesus was packed in that bin. And even now, decades later, my heart is filled with the kind of joy that only giving can provide.
Two – include a lone adult in your celebration
With families broken and spread out, many older adults find themselves alone during the Christmas season. There may be members of your church or folks in your circles who will be alone and would welcome an invite to your Christmas dinner or another gathering you would like to share.
This has been a longtime tradition, lasting generations in my family. We usually give simple gifts (a book, a box of cookies, a loaf of yummy bread). And then we share our love and friendship with our guests. Truly the joy of the season.
Three – bring cheer to a senior center
A lot of older women and men are alone in their care facilities and would enjoy your visit or your gift of happiness. Filling a few Christmas stockings with little treats can bring a smile to the face of a lonely senior. Donate a movie DVD that can be played in the common room. Bring little poinsettias that can be placed on the dining tables. Teach a craft. Bring your church choir to sing Christmas carols. Contact the centers near you and find out the needs and how you can share love with residents.
Four – serve as a secret Santa
When I lived in a neighborhood near downtown Seattle, an elderly neighbor kept to himself. I would often see him sweeping the sidewalks in the early hours of the day (he lived kitty-corner from me). But he never talked to folks. He just seemed to want to be alone. He never had any visitors. And on the rare times he and I spoke, it was just a simple ‘hello.”
One year (and for the remaining years I lived in that neighborhood), I decided to bless the man with a special “secret Santa” gift. I made a lovely Christmas stocking and filled it with special little treats that I thought he might enjoy. Then just before midnight on Christmas Eve, I quietly snuck up on his front porch and leaned the stocking against the door. I added a little note, “From Santa,” and kept the giver’s name secret.
I never saw him find the stocking. I never heard him ask anyone about it. I don’t think he guessed that it was from me. But I do cherish the thought of him finding the gift, opening it up, and feeling joy and knowing someone was caring about him.
Are there people you can surprise with a loving “secret Santa” blessing? Extravagance isn’t necessary. Little treasures can bring much joy into the hearts of those who may be lonely, alone, and needing the gift of care.
Five – create a Christ-centered atmosphere in your home
Decide to BE love in your home. Play Christmas music (see the videos below for two of my favorites). Bake little treats. Set up a nativity. Watch Christmas movies, including The Nativity Story. Bake a Happy Birthday Jesus cake. Talk about positive attitudes and the incredible gift God gave the world when He sent His Son into the world.
Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when they had seen Him, they made [f]widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
Are you ready to rock your life and grow in faith?
Join with Susan Gregory and other committed followers of Christ to become the amazing creation God made you to be.
Five Steps to End the Overwhelm
Do you ever feel as if your mind is swirling in 20 different directions? You have a tough time concentrating. And you often think, “This is all too overwhelming.”
In today’s technological culture, which is supposed to be so easy and help us operate better and more efficiently, do you feel more stressed than ever?
You don’t have to feel so stressed. Remember, God has not given you a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Take some comfort in that you’re not alone! We’re living in a world teeming with so many distractions that researchers and psychologists are designing coping methods, so students and adults can stay focused on a single project for more than three minutes! Crazy? More three minutes?
But it’s the way of the world these days. I receive emails from members of our Faith Driven Life Community who ask for help about spending time with God. Troubled believers tell me they just can’t stay focused or quiet their minds enough to hear God speak to them.
The theme of these messages – the tread woven in all of them is, “I feel so overwhelmed. I just can’t get calm. I have too much to do and I can’t find time to be in prayer and study.”
I know there are some circumstances in our lives when you may feel really stretched. Like Alice, a 69-year-old woman who works full time, cares for an ailing husband, and now has her two grandchildren living with her! Alice is in a stretching time and her way addressing stress, and those in similar situations, needs different solutions.
For most people, however, being overwhelmed is a screaming symptom of not having defined priorities. The truth is, most people today try to stuff too much into too few hours and the result is chaos and feelings of overwhelm.
Overwhelm attacks your self-worth, your health, your thinking, and even your health.
Here is a fact for just about everyone feeling stressed and overwhelmed: you are trying to do too much.
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
I know, it may seem impossible to stop doing so much. But let me give you some things to think about that you can put into action right away:
- Discover what’s important to you. What are the primary roles you want to master? We all wear a lot of hats. When you think about your roles, which ones are most significant for you to fulfill. List then and then rate them in priority. Prayerfully think about why you have accepted each role and consider forgoing those that aren’t as important and that take away from the time, energy, and attention you can give to the others.
- Discover what you want. What do you want for your homelife? How about your health? Your vocation? Your spiritual life? Your intellectual growth? Your social life? Your finances? Your future. What are goals that you can articulate and specify so you can see what’s most important to you . . . your priority. Draw the Lord into your meeting. He will help you.
- Choose your priorities. Have a little meeting with yourself. Select your priorities from the lists you’ve made. Make sure you minimize your top priorities, so you can devote to them the time, attention, and resources they need so you can fulfill your desire.
- Devise a plan of action. What specific things can you do to do well? How can you be the best version of yourself? How can you use the time, talent, and resources God has given to you to fulfill the call He has on your life?
- Be present. Toss “multi-tasking” out the window. Don’t try to parent and work on an office project at the same time. Be present and give the best of yourself as you fulfill each role you fulfill.
Don’t forget to put yourself on the list of priorities. You know the flight attendant’s instructions when you’re on a jet about to take off, “In the unlikely event of an emergency an oxygen mask will drop from the panel above your head . . .” They tell you to position the mask yourself and THEN help others. Make sure you are a priority, along with others God has put in your circles.
We love hearing from friends, visitors, and members of our Faith Driven Life community. Please leave your comment below! Let’s share and support each other as we each become the very best version of ourselves . . . the very best of who God created us to be!
Follow us on social media and join thousands of others who are leading a faith-driven
Do you really believe?
Have you ever wanted to have stronger faith? Or have you heard, “Grow your faith? Have stronger faith in God and His Word!”
That’s all good. We do want to have a strong, abiding faith in our Lord and His works.
However today, I want to pull faith apart a bit and talk specifically about “believing.”
Jesus says, “Fear not. Only believe.”
I don’t mean the difference between believing and having faith. That’s a whole different topic. What I’m talking about is the kind of believing Jesus referred to when He made this amazing statement:
I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them. Mark 11:24
Perhaps this type of believing requires faith to be its heartbeat. This is believing with assurance. Believing with certainty. Believing with expectation.
Jesus gives us an order for these actions:
One: Ask when you pray. That’s the first order of our spiritual transaction. We’re to ask. Jesus repeats this step when He says, “If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.” John 14:14. We’re to ask for anything in His name.
I take the “in His name” condition to be anything you desire unless it’s against the laws of God. And something that will not bring harm to you or others. But rather than going deeper with “what’s okay to request of God,” let’s get back to the sequence that Jesus presents in Mark 11:24.
The first step is to ask.
Two: Next is, “believe that you receive them.” So first you ask. Then you believe that what you asked for is already yours. You receive it as yours! You’ve already got it, even though it may not have manifested yet in the physical world.
Three: The third step in this sequence is, “and you will have them.” Ask, believe, have.
That’s mixed up, right? Seems we usually stick with the adage, “I’ll believe it when I see it.” But that’s not the way Jesus teaches us. He says, believe then you have it.
And this is the kind of believing that I think we can work on. I think we can get better at believing we receive before we see the thing we’ve asked for with our natural eyes.
Imagine this in your mind: you’re standing in your living room. You have a desire for a new appliance that would benefit you and your family. But it’s just not in the budget. Earthly circumstances of not enough money are keeping you from purchasing the appliance.
You go to God in prayer and ask for the item (step one). Then you rev up your faith. You imagine that the appliance you desire is in the spiritual realm and on its way to you! It’s like you’ve ordered the item from Amazon and you know it’s on the way to your address. You’re excited and thankful that the desired item will very soon be in your hands. It’s already yours. It just needs to arrive.
You have used your faith and operated according to the kingdom of God principles. Your Father has provided. And you are thankful. Before it arrives from the heavenly realm to the earthly realm, so you can touch it with your natural senses (manifested), you are already thanking God for His provision. It’s already yours.
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1
In my experience, this is where most Christians need to grow. We need to learn to believe Jesus. Not just believe that Jesus is. But believe what Jesus says. And they believe that what He says is absolutely true and that we can depend on what He teaches.
Your “believer” is like a muscle. It needs to be worked to gain strength.
How do we go about getting stronger in this type of believing? Here are a few steps you can take to strengthen your “believer.”
- Identify a desire that you have in your heart (Psalm 37:4). For now, keep it simple so it will be closer to your level of faith.
- Find a promise in God’s Word that matches your desire or the type of desire that it falls within (financial, faith, provision, relationships, etc.).
- Then come to the Lord with a humble heart and make your request to Him (Philippians 4:6).
- Now believe you’ve already received what you asked for. Praise God for His goodness. Imagine you holding the item in your had or seeing with your physical eyes. Imagine that it’s already yours (this is the faith, the substance, for what you have hoped for.) Buy the way, the Bible way of “hope” isn’t wishin’ and hopin’ something will come true. Hope is sure. It’s happening. It’s coming.
- Keep believing. Keep thanking God. Keep anticipating . . . and it will show up!
You may have all kinds of resisting thought going off in your head right now. Doubting thoughts. Then hear the voice of Jesus speaking to you now, “For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.” Mark 11:23
Use the doubt you feel as a warning light on your spiritual dashboard that your “believer” needs attention. Work on believing. Get in God’s Word. Read about the testimonies of others who have experienced miracles and God’s supernatural actions in their lives. Feed your soul with the bread of life.
Soon and very soon, you will see your faith working. You’ll see how you can co-labor with God and as you follow His ways and believe in His principles, you will ask, believe, and receive.
We love hearing from friends, visitors, and members of our Faith Driven Life community. Please leave your comment below! Let’s share and support each other as we each become the very best version of ourselves . . . the very best of who God created us to be!
How do they know?
Is it about me or about them?
I don’t think that measures up to what Jesus was talking about when He said, “By this, they will know that you are My disciples.”
Going to church, writing books, or teaching Christians life lessons don’t affect those who don’t yet know Christ. Those things are all about me and what I do. Jesus calls us to love others. To express love to people. To be love.
These thoughts stirred my soul and caused me to renew my resolve to “be love” to everyone I encounter. When we’re loving toward others, we are acting like Jesus. We are acting like His disciples.
Now here’s another nuance that can make a big difference in our lives when we intentionally set our objective to love others: the love we express isn’t our love. Instead, we want the love of Christ to be so present in us that His love flows out from us and to those we encounter. It’s His pure love they receive. And that pure love comes from the submitted life of His disciples.
Do they know because they receive love from me?
How do we go about fostering Christ’s love in us? Here are a few steps that keep us walking in His ways so we can be filled with His love.
First: we want to submit ourselves to Christ. A submitted heart is under the influence and direction of our Lord. Paul says, “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20
When we are fully submitted to Him, our heart is humble and His love permeates our soul. We’re able to love beyond our natural ability because it’s not our love, but instead, it’s Christ’s love flowing through us.
Second: we want to be intentional about loving others. In 1 Corinthians 14:1 we’re taught to “make love your aim.” We’re to pursue the act of loving others with the pure love of Christ. That means we learn how to love. We practice how to love. We engage in loving others, just as Christ loves. We are His disciples, which means He is our example and we behave as He behaves.
Third: we are commanded to position loving as our number one priority. Jesus is very clear about love being the top in our lives. He said, “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. This is the first commandment. And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30-31
As followers of Jesus Christ, we are to love. We’re to love God and we’re to love others. Everything about our faith-driven life starts with love! It’s not about going to church. It’s not about quoting Bible verses. It’s not even about how morally we are living! The first is all about love. There is no other commandment greater than to love God and to love others.
It’s a choice we’re called to make if we truly are followers of Jesus. The Scriptures don’t mince words, “He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.” 1 John 4:8
Let’s make the godly choice. Let’s love!
Your Turn! Join the conversation! I love hearing from you and so do others. What do you think about loving others? Leave your comments below.
Out of This World Living
If you were to compare your lifestyle with those who don’t yet know Christ, how are you different?
Yes, you probably go to church. And of course the greatest difference is that you have eternal life. But how else are you different? As a follower of Jesus Christ, can those around you witness that you don’t live by the world’s standards? Do you fret and worry? Or do you have have peace of God that passes all understanding coursing through your body so you’re calm, cool and collected?
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Our new life doesn’t stay at the foot of the cross, where are rightfully forever thankful for Christ’s sacrifice. Just like Jesus didn’t stay on the cross, nor should we. Instead, Jesus died and was buried and on the third day He rose again. He was resurrected. And His resurrection made possible our new life.
Now each one of us, who have accepted Christ as our Savior, have the choice and the responsibility to live in this priceless new life. The Bible calls us to this new way of living. It’s the kingdom of God kind of living. He gives us access to the powers of heaven. He gives us access to godly authority. He gives us access to His peace. His joy. His faith. He gave it all to us. That was His part.
Our part is to accept this new life in Christ and to walk in His ways.
They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
We not only can have an amazing life because of what Jesus accomplished on the cross and in His resurrection, but we also are called to live bold, successful, peace-filled, and loving lives. We are called to be His witnesses. His light in the world. His proof that life with God is good, just like our Lord is good.
We’re called to step out of the worldly living with all the problems, challenges, trappings, and bondage. And instead accept the invitation of Christ to the kingdom of God lifestyle that He came to proclaim.
Do you want to have a handy list of scriptures that teach about your new life? Just click on the link below
Click here to receive Your New Life Verses and Worksheet
God gives us the choice. We can stay the way we are or we can go with Him and in His ways.
And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience.
Are you willing to see what the Word of God has to say about your new life in Christ? Open your heart to your loving Father and hear what He has to say to you, His child, through His living Word.
Click here to receive Your New Life Verses and Worksheet
Learn to Live a Life of Faith.
If you want to dive in and develop a lifestyle of faith – a kingdom of God kind of daily life – then check out our Faith Driven Life Community. Just click on the link below:
Click Here to Learn More
For God So Loved You . . .
We live in a time when there is so much “noise” in our daily lives. So many messages coming to us. So many things to do that keep us busy. So much to think about. So much to cope with. Sometimes we can feel as if our mind is swirling at 100 mph.
That’s why I encourage you to take a few minutes. Push the pause button. And give yourself some time to think deeply on the amazing fact that God, who created all that is, loved you so much that He gave to you His one and only Son. His Son gave His life on the cross for you so you could be reconciled with your Creator and live forever with Him. Not just a while. But forever.
Your forever, or everlasting life, is happening right now. And this new life it what it says: NEW. It’s not an add-on to the old life you’ve been living. It’s not a religion that you practice. It’s a life. A new life. And this life in Christ is yours.
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
Our new life doesn’t stay at the foot of the cross, where are rightfully forever thankful for Christ’s sacrifice. Just like Jesus didn’t stay on the cross, nor should we. Instead, Jesus died and was buried and on the third day He rose again. He was resurrected. And His resurrection made possible our new life.
Now each one of us, who have accepted Christ as our Savior, have the choice and the responsibility to live in this priceless new life. The Bible calls us to this new way of living. It’s the kingdom of God kind of living. He gives us access to the powers of heaven. He gives us access to godly authority. He gives us access to His peace. His joy. His faith. He gave it all to us. That was His part.
Our part is to accept this new life in Christ and to walk in His ways.
There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.
To walk is action. Walking is motion. Walking is moving. It’s a way of being. And we are called to a new way of being. This new life is so “out of this world” that we enjoy a different life. A rich and fulfilled life. A life of peace. A life of joy. A life of confidence and assurance. A life that is so powerful and successful that those around us are impressed. Not impressed by who we are on our own. But impressed because we walk in our new life in Christ. That’s how the light of Christ shines through us and makes a difference in the lives of others. And that’s who we bring glory to God.
That’s our part. To live in this new life and to be so loving, successful, joyful, and powerful that people want what we have, which is a new life in Christ
Do you want to have a handy list of scriptures that teach about your new life? Just click on the link below
Click here to receive Your New Life Verses and Worksheet
God gives us the choice. We can stay the way we are or we can go with Him and in His ways.
“If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” Galatians 5:25
Are you willing to see what the Word of God has to say about your new life in Christ? Open your heart to your loving Father and hear what He has to say to you, His child, through His living Word.
Click here to receive Your New Life Verses and Worksheet
Learn to Live a Life of Faith.
If you want to dive in and develop a lifestyle of faith – a kingdom of God kind of daily life – then check out our Faith Driven Life Community. Just click on the link below:
Click Here to Learn More