Needed Reminders

Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. – 1 Peter 3:15-16 NLT

For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. – Philippians 2:13 NLT

When our lives are challenged by circumstances or relationships, the Apostle Peter reminds us to worship Christ as the Lord of our lives. What a needed reminder.
When people see Christ living through our lives, and ask about it, we are to be ready with an answer delivered with gentleness and respect. Another needed reminder.
When people speak out against us, it will be the evidence of Christ living through us bringing goodness to those around us that brings those same people to point of regret for what they shared. The reminder that our lives in Christ being faithfully lived out is its own defense is important to focus on.
When we question our ability to follow God faithfully, the Apostle Paul reminds us that God is working within us giving us both desire and power to do what pleases Him! Simply an amazing reminder that our ability to be faithful to God is provided by Him!

Reflection
It is good to be reminded of things we already know. Consider this example: I know Bev loves me. Yet, I am always grateful for the reminders she faithfully shares with me. We all need reminders of genuine love. We never grow tired of it. Reminders are also a good hedge against doubt, which we so easily give into. Most of us are “skilled” at undermining ourselves. God reminds us that He lifts us up with an abundance of life to live and share with this world.

Encouragement
Receive these reminders of focusing on Christ, being ready with a gentle and respectful response for people about God’s presence in your life, letting your life in Christ be its own defense knowing that God is giving you the power and desire to do His will.

Prayer
Dear Jesus, Thank You for these reminders of how to live, respond, and receive as Your children. Thank You that these reminders are for anyone who chooses to believe in and follow You. Speaking personally to You, I needed these reminders today.

In Your strong name, we pray, Amen

-Ed McDowell, CEO
Warm Beach Camp Ministries