The Bible is our guide to following life in the way God intended. It shows us the ultimate example in Jesus’ life. It also give us hope and purpose beyond what we find in this time we live here. These are my findings as I journey through life.
“This simple illustration came from a time of personal reflection,” said Stephen. “Time and time again Jesus tells us to consider the impact of our lives beyond the here and now.” Jesus said, “but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:19-24
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“Drawing simple illustrations is one way I sometimes meditate on God’s word,” said Stephen. “I start with an image I perceive from a specific verse and use colored pencils to make a simple drawing. It brings me closer to Jesus and helps me understand what the Lord wants me to get from a passage. It is an adventure in reading scripture that often takes me to different parts of the Bible. I call this drawing ‘salvation seed.'” Bible references:
Salvation Seed: Matthew 13:1-23, 1 Peter 1:22-23.
Good Soil: Galatians 5:22-23, John 14:27, Colossians 3:10, John 3:16, John 4:14.
Rocks and Weeds: Galatians 5:17, Luke 12:20-21, 1 Peter 5:8, Ephesians 6:12.
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A well used Bible is a beautiful sight. This is actually Larry Bookman’s Bible.
“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death,” Proverbs 16:25. Humans have this uncanny way of justifying their own actions as “good.” But, this is a self-righteousness attitude.
Have you given any thought as to where your definition of good or bad comes from? If not, you are likely standing on the shifting sand of contemporary culture as your guide in life. You may even be taking the place of God in your own beliefs – regardless of what you say is your faith position.
One of the fundamental changes in my life after surrendering to Jesus was to render myself totally open to how God defines “right” and “wrong.” I understood that to God sin was wrong. However, I needed an unbiased way to determine what “sin” was. It came to me in two forms. First the Bible is the written word, a guide I must read and absorb for myself. Secondly, Jesus is the living word that I must use to guide my internal compass.
I read the words in the Bible often, but it is the Holy Spirit who gives me the insight to translate those words into how I can live closer to Jesus. “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things…,” John 14:26.
To put it another way, I constantly compare my opinions, actions and beliefs against the perfect standard, Jesus. I fail often, but I know Christ gave his life on earth so that I have grace (undeserved favor) before a perfect God.
Christianity is who I am, not something I do every now and then. It is not religious ceremonies or certain words I have to say. But, if I am doing it correctly it is loving everyone and living a certain way regardless of the culture that is around me. It permeates every decision I make and gives me hope in all situations. “Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good,” Romans 12:9.
Ultimately, God defines what is “good” and to think I can somehow alter his standard is wrong. Who is defining what is right for your life? “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly,” said Jesus (John 10:10). Come to Jesus.
Stephen Williams
True Path Ministry Inc.
It seems that we have entered a time when Christians in the USA are under attack. Many in America have forgotten where the countless positive aspects of our national character originated. Here is a reminder of seven.
Do you want to become a Christian?
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6
The profit Isaiah wrote this as he foresaw Jesus’ coming many years before the manger became part of our story.
Merry Christmas!