Do Not Let Grace, Truth and Common Sense Leave You


 

"The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. We observed his glory, the glory as the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." (John 1:14 CSB)

In this country's turbulent times it can be difficult to see God's grace, mercy, justice and truth. We find ourselves living in a rebellious nation, with a deadly disease, death by the thousands and trouble on every side.  Families are searching for financial stability and some of us just want to make it through this new "normal" way of living. I wondered what I could do to stay encouraged, feel God's grace, and  know his truth while making sure I use common sense to guide my decision making. The Holy Spirit spoke these instructions to me.  I hope they are helpful to you as well. 

1) Preserve common sense and discretion. Common sense is to have a sane and realistic attitude to situations and problems.  Discretion is the quality of leaving or speaking in such a way as to avoid causing offense or revealing confidential information. "A beautiful woman who lacks discretion is like a gold ring in a pig's snout." (Proverbs 11:22 NLT) My mother was a very wise and prudent woman who spoke these words to me when I was a teenager,  "You have a lot of book sense but you make sure you get some common sense."  So I got myself some common sense.  Common sense is something that can be acquired if you learn how to think before you haphazardly act. 

2) Do not let grace and truth leave you. Truth is the belt that wholes your life together. Grace is the gift that keeps you going. Let them both be an integral part of your life. 

3) Set your mind, heart and spirit to be strong and courageous (resolute). If you are facing something that takes courage remember this verse, "But as for you, be strong; don't give up, for your work has a reward." (2 Chronicles 15:7 CSB)

4) Trust in the LORD with all your heart do not rely on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him then He will level your path. .

5) Don't quarrel with someone for no reason especially if she has done you no harm. Keep crooked speech out of your mouth banish deceit from your lips.  Remember silence is essential to understanding.

6) Guard your lips as well as your eyes, ears and your steps. Listen to Him on a daily basis. Pray at all times in every situation. These troubling times, trials and tribulations will come to pass.  

7) Do not live in defeat. Work with God not against him. Pray and meditate on purpose. Know his commandments, respect his rulings and obey them. Remember, you will give an account for your life.  

8) Have self-control and do not fear what man can do to you. Your life is not in a man's hand, but in God's hands. From His hands and his hands only shall your needs be met. He created you and he cares about your life. "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41:10)

9) Above everything else, guard your heart for it is the source of life's consequences. The heart is the central organ which conditions all man's activities and upon whose correct functioning depends on the character of your life. A person with a good heart is generous, a loyal friend, a good neighbor, aware of the consequences of one's words and deeds. Think about the consequences of your actions. Dr. Charles Stanley said, "There are some sins that cannot be undone. They can be with you for a lifetime and even out live you!"

May the Lord keep you and bless you. 

Pastor Patricia 



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