The Best You
Luke 6:27-30 (MSG Bible) “To you who are ready for the truth, I say this: Love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer for that person. If someone slaps you in the face, stand there and take it. If someone grabs your shirt, gift wrap your best coat and make a present of it. If someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Live generously.
The circumstances and situations you have walked through or are currently facing will bring the BEST out of you!? REALLY…lol! Our Father expects us to take the high road even when YOU know you gave more than you got… Oh my! Reading a passage like this can be a bit much, especially when you have faced some “stuff.” However, this verse starts with a line that says,” For those who are READY for the TRUTH!” HMMM…. Are you ready? What have you recently faced that put you in front of the mirror of TRUTH? Perhaps someone was exposed as they are or was it a situation you thought you could salvage!? Yes, we’ve all been there. So, what’s next? For those who are ready for the truth, YOU live, and you learn! In the midst of it all, you begin to see life in a new light (new to you, of course). By faith, you forge ahead into the unknown with a fresh perspective and let all the stuff you’ve faced over time build you into the BEST YOU!
Expect the Lord
Psalms 27:13-14 (Amp)“What, what would have become of me had I not believed that I would see the Lord's goodness in the land of the living! Wait and hope for and expect the Lord; be brave and of good courage and let your heart be stout and enduring. Yes, wait for and hope for and expect the Lord.”
You are on top of the mountain one minute, then in the valley the next. You've dreamed. You've had goals. You've had concrete plans, yet nothing to show for it. Or perhaps, you’ve started on the path of pursuing your purpose and somehow become stuck. What stranded you? What caused you to feel blah? The numerous promises that fell through the cracks and the times you felt cheated by family, friends, or business associates left a sour taste in your mouth. Life has handed you a bowl of lemons, and no matter what you do, it still seems like a bowl of lemons. You are the brave one, yet the fiery passion that moved you beyond the everyday humdrum is now dim. You've lost that loving feeling, wondering how I’ll ever get it back?
Sometimes things happen in life that leaves you baffled or in utter shock. During those moments, we tend to isolate ourselves, tell everyone we are fine and remain in the cave until the dark cloud is gone. Let this message of encouragement empower you today. The scripture reminds us of three things, to wait, hope for, and expect the Lord. Life happens, indeed. Hence the reason we need the Lord’s gentle reminders to guide us through the storm; it shall pass. He also sends into our life those that reflect His voice of encouragement, especially when we feel a bit weary. No matter how brave we are, there are times when we need a lift. So here’s a quick pick-me-up to help you through the moment. God's got it; He’s given you the ability to endure the wilderness and winter seasons of life no matter what! Regardless of what it looks like, stay the course and remain faithful! Don't throw in the towel. Trust Him and watch Him work through you! How do I know; I’ve lived it! So hang in there, for your waiting is not in vain. You will see the goodness of the Lord in your land!