Gwen Smith: When I was growing up ours was on the door frame between the kitchen and the hall with red carpet.
A vertical trail of penciled dashes and dates that marked the growth of my siblings and I – that eventually got painted over. (Google image)
An archive of ages and heights that proved physical progress was really happening in the Eisaman household.
And boy did I want my growth to show.
Each time my dad lined us up to draw lines just above our highest hairs, I would stretch my spine to the sky. {It's even possible that I might’ve lifted my heels occasionally. Possible. Just throwing it out there. Don’t judge me. Dad always bumped us back down…}
In his letter to Timothy, Paul encouraged him to set an example to other believers in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity (1 Timothy 4:12).
He also challenged his young protégé to devote himself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation (encouraging others), and to teaching.
He told Timothy to be intentional. Move forward in faith. Grow in such a way that it impacts others.
"Practice these things. Immerse yourself in them,
so that all may see your progress." (1 Timothy 4:15)
I read this and I wonder. What type of spiritual progress can be seen in my life? Am I setting an example in conduct… in the way I behave, react, respond and live?
Do I set an example for others in the words I use… in the ways I love… in my purity? Do I reflect Jesus in these things? Am I growing in His image?
These questions drive me to my knees. I’m forced to ask God to search me and know me – inside and out. I ask Him to show me the ways that I’ve grown and to show me the ways I still need to grow.
The progress I want to see in my life is no longer about a height chart, it’s about a depth chart. I want there to be visible evidence of my faith in Jesus that doesn’t waver in the winds or crumble in the uncomfortable. Don’t you?
Though our faith is unseen (Hebrews 6:1) let’s press on in progress and move forward in the hope, joy, love and peace of Christ so that others will be inspired to do the same.
Let’s live in such a way that shows on the outside a faith that’s growing on the inside.
Let’s Pray..
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| Google image |
Dear Lord, Thank You for being so gracious and compassionate with me. Thank You for loving me where I used to be – in spite of me – and for loving me where I am today. Please forgive me for the times I try to move forward without You. Help me to prioritize progress and seek You continually so that others will clearly see You in me.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Now It’s Your Turn Read Philippians 1.
How does the beginning of this letter to the people of Philippi that was written long, long ago stir you toward growing in Christ today? Grab your journal and write a prayer of response. Click here to write a prayer of response on the wall of my blog.
What Do Others See in You?
Gwen Smith February 18, 2016
Gwen Smith February 18, 2016
"I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith… (Philippians 1:25, NIV)
Gwen Smith’s new book, I Want It ALL, is now available. Here’s the burden in her belly: she believes that you were created to be a woman of impact who is so in love with her Lord and so aware of His might that she cannot help but expect great things and live in His power and grace.
That’s the message of I Want It ALL. Order yours today from Amazon, Barnes & Noble or ChristianBook.com.
Today’s Bible verse:
“For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him. Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love.” ~Luke 19:10 (NASB
Today’s quotes:
~ "When we are ill at ease and troubled, that is the time when we are closest to blessing. We must go through fire and water before God may bring us into a safe place. Unless we forcefully discipline ourselves, we will not conquer our faults. So long as we carry about with us this frail body, we cannot be without sin, nor can we live without weariness and trouble." (p. 89 of The Imitation of Christ by Thomas A. Kempis, compiled and edited by James N. Watkins, published Spring of 2016 )
Today’s quotes:
"Open my eyes to see the beauty of You. Take me away so I may be found in You. Let Your living water flow in and through me. Let Your Bread of Heaven nourish my soul so that I may nourish the souls of others." Lisa Buffaloe (from Lisa's blog post: Lost in You )
~ "When we are ill at ease and troubled, that is the time when we are closest to blessing. We must go through fire and water before God may bring us into a safe place. Unless we forcefully discipline ourselves, we will not conquer our faults. So long as we carry about with us this frail body, we cannot be without sin, nor can we live without weariness and trouble." (p. 89 of The Imitation of Christ by Thomas A. Kempis, compiled and edited by James N. Watkins, published Spring of 2016 )
Our thought today:
Our question today:
Upcoming posts:
If we're not anchored down with a strong faith in God, the world's value system can cause us to drift from Him. Live to serve Christ, so He will be pleased with your life.
In examining your desires and choices, what it it that drives you? Are you more concerned with what others will say, or what Christ thinks of you?
Signs of a Real Christian
10th- Sunday evening's post by Jean Oathout
10th- Sunday evening's post by Jean Oathout
#33 You Must Prevail Over Situations
12th- Tuesday's post by Dr. Wesley L. Duewel
#34 You Must Prevail Over People
14th- Thursday's post by Dr. Wesley L. Duewel
Personal Help
16th- Saturday's post by Lisa Buffaloe
Reasons to Laugh (for seniors, or anyone)
Excerpts from UnitedHealthcare’s positivelyU for seniors.
“Today, we’re finding a reason to laugh..
Feel energized. Jumpstart your positivity with some fun activities. Being physically active on a regular basis is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself..."
Good word.
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