Good and Lovely Thoughts

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8, NIV

There are many changes that have occurred in the six decades that I have been alive, some good and many not so good. One practice that has virtually disappeared is the giving and exchange of compliments among adults, especially women. In fact, the typical reaction of most recipients of a compliment is silence.

“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” Ephesians 4:32

Is the giving and cordial receiving of compliments part of a lost era or rules of etiquette that were never learned? Have we forgotten how to extend ourselves to make others feel good? Even so, God’s expectation is for Christians to express genuine thoughts and spoken words that reveal “God is love.”

There are various possibilities as to why we have ceased to give positive and thoughtful praise to others; even so, the most logical explanation is that we possess a negative outlook because we do not have a loving heart.

Have you thought about the type of thoughts that dominate your mind and how those thoughts impact your way of life? Our thoughts dictate our behaviors and actions. If negative thoughts permeate your mind, then it is not possible to feel good about yourself or others.

How does negativity impact your relationship with God? It is not possible to really exercise faith and trust in God or to be thankful and possess joy when our thoughts and moods fluctuate according to our circumstances.

“Pray without ceasing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17

We are reminded to think on and possess thoughts which are excellent and praiseworthy. So, if the circumstances of life have shaped your character and you are a negative person then God has provided the answer for change, pray prayers of gratitude. The transition of thinking altogether-lovely thoughts has many positive benefits with the most important is that your character is molded to prepare you for Eternal life.

God is in the business of changing our characters! Start your journey by giving God positive praises everyday: Prayers of Thanksgiving, Praise and Worship with Songs and Uplifting Inspirational Music and study His Word, the Holy Bible to learn how deep His love is for you.

Identify your qualities and embrace positive thoughts about yourself. Begin to give yourself compliments on the small accomplishments that you make on a daily basis. This is a process that builds a positive self-image and self-esteem. God desires for us to embrace that He created us in His image, and are “fearfully and wonderfully made.”

It is wonderful to live with a spirit of thanksgiving–a positive way of life emerges–your connection with God remains consistent, you begin to love yourself as God loves you, and you are able to readily extend gracious compliments to others.

Jesus Christ, God, the Son created us with unique features from the texture of our hair to the fingerprints that represent His love and creativity. We are created from Agape love that validates our existence and value. It is a beautiful life and it wouldn’t be complete without you or other people in it!

God, we thank you for all of the wonderful blessings. Help us to appreciate Your love, grace, and mercy. We ask for Your strength as we strive to transition from a negative mindset to a positive life filled with gratitude and praise. In Jesus’ name, we pray in faith. Amen.

2024 Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

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Separation Is the Key To Preparing for Eternal Life

Our Daily Walk with Christ Devotional – August 22, 2024

“Be holy, for I Am Holy.” —1 Peter 1:16

For those striving to live holy, the Holy Spirit reveals the Truth, gives us wisdom, and leads us in our earthly journey of Sanctification. Without daily consecrating oneself to God, diligently praying, and studying the Bible, we cannot distinguish between Holy and common [sinful] practices. The Holy Spirit gives us the wisdom and discernment to recognize compromised Christianity.

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven..” —Matthew 7:21

“Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company ruins good morals’ ” (1 Corinthians 15:33). The next time you are with family or friends, stay quiet, and listen to their conversation. Are they leading you to have a stronger relationship with Christ or pulling you away from the Path of Righteousness?

There are no worldly Christians. Too many Christians are thinking, speaking, dressing, and participating in earthly pleasures and chasing prosperity. Set yourself apart from unbelievers. Surrounding ourselves with believers who can pray with and for us, study the bible, and prepare for Jesus’ Second Coming constitutes the Family of God.

“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” —John 14: 1-3

In love, Jesus gave His life, suffering a cruel death so we can be redeemed from sin. We owe Him our lives. Revelation 22:12 is sooner than we think. Get ready and stay ready! Only those with a pure and obedient heart will receive the reward of Eternal life. Jesus is waiting for you and me to dedicate ourselves to fulfilling our calling as His disciples.

Prayer: Thank You Jesus for Your unfailing love. We ask You to teach us how to be Holy. In Your Righteous Name, we pray, Amen.

© 2024 Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions