Good morning,
God, the genuine gift giver!
When God designed us to be like himself, one part of that design was that we would enjoy getting gifts. The Garden of Eden was an awesome gift for Adam and Eve. What they didn’t seem to understand was that in order for them to enjoy this gift, they would be required to make choices about who was the real gift giver. Satan lied to them and they believed that his gift was better than God’s. That started the rebellion against God that will be with us until the end of time. God didn’t give up on the human race, for John 3:16 tells us that God really does love each one of us. What God has done is require that we willingly choose to trust Him as our Savior and Lord. The Bible tells us, And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.(Heb.11:6) If people choose not to trust and obey him the Bible tells us, You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil–the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God.(Eph.2:2) One of the Devil’s traps is to get people to pretend to be followers of God, but only do so to get God’s gift for themselves and not out of love for the God who loves them. Jeremiah tells us, O LORD of Heaven's Armies, you test those who are righteous, and you examine the deepest thoughts and secrets.(20:12)
So what does God’s test look like? In Galatians 5:22 we are told But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:
God’s Love that flows out of us towards God and all those, good or bad, around us.
Joy with God’s plan for our lives now and for the eternity we look forward to in Heaven.
God’s Peace no matter what the circumstances around us are like, that the world can’t understand.
Patience that is willing to trust God’s timing that seems too slow or too sudden for us.
God’s Kindness towards God’s family and all the rest of the world around us.
Goodness that willingly reaches out to love and help those around us for the glory of God.
Christians who are known for their Faithfulness and dependability under difficult circumstances.
Christians who are known for their Gentleness when they have authority or responsibility.
Christians who are known for their Self-control when dealing with difficult people or problems.
The Bible also tells us that, Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. (v.24) Another part of the test is, Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives.(v.25) Dear Lord, will you help us to pray like Paul for the Philippians, I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding.(1:9)
Philippians 1:11 May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation–the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ–for this will bring much glory and praise to God.
Roy Wisner
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