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strong words

As we step back and listen, we might learn some powerful things or even hear some insight that will make life sweeter and easier.  It happened like that for me today.  Slowing down is not one of my strengths, but I stopped for a few minutes this morning hoping to gain some perspective.  God spoke.  He spoke through scripture.

Each of us has a filter through which we hear and see and even act.  I am a child of God, a husband, a dad, a pastor and there are many things going on around me.  There you have pieces of my filter.  Through those things and in the quiet, I read this:

1 Peter 5:5-11 (GWT) --- ... Furthermore, all of you must serve each other with humility, because God opposes the arrogant but favors the humble. Be humbled by God's power so that when the right time comes he will honor you.  Turn all your anxiety over to God because he cares for you. Keep your mind clear, and be alert. Your opponent the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion as he looks for someone to devour. Be firm in the faith and resist him, knowing that other believers throughout the world are going through the same kind of suffering. God, who shows you his kindness and who has called you through Christ Jesus to his eternal glory, will restore you, strengthen you, make you strong, and support you as you suffer for a little while. Power belongs to him forever. Amen.

Humility --- I have heard this quote forever "Humility is a strange thing; when you think you have gained it, you have lost it."  Humility is a choice, and from what this verse says, God blesses those who chose it.

Turn anxiety over to God --- Folks, I need to hear this one often.  When I realize that I am worrying, that is when I realize that I am not trusting God.  That is where I have to stop and change what I am doing.  Give all my worry to Him and all my fears to Him.  He can handle it better than I.

Your opponent the devil ---  Reminder: we have an enemy.  When we chose to follow God, the enemy chooses to come after us.  That is a fact.

Serve each other ---  Often our needs are met as we serve others.  We can also gain perspective when we serve others.

God shows kindness ... will restore you, strengthen you ... support you .... Power belongs to Him ---  Life is all about God.  Nothing more.  Nothing less.  Believe God because He is able and He is in control.  Let Him work and restore and empower you to be all He made you (and me) to be!

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