Attitude

Meeting one on one with God, daily, is without question the best way to know Him and His purpose for my life.

At the start of the New Year, I decided to spend these times in the Gospels, begining with Matthew. Today was chapter 5.

Reading the words of Jesus to his learners / followers / disciples I am challenged again in my response to the world. The characteristics of the believer will be in stark contrast to that of the "lost". I am to be merciful in a world that teaches me that this trait reveals weakness. I am to be a peacemaker in a world of war and strife. This peacemaker is not primarily concerned with making everyone "feel" happy, but with the peace of God by following His word. I am to be salt and light. I am to turn the other cheek. I am to pray for those who mistreat me and spitefully use me. There seems to be no room for self here. Maybe that is what Jesus is saying and demonstrating. Believers WILL have eternity to be without suffering, exhaustion, sadness...we WILL have eternity with Jesus.

There is a real danger also. As we follow the Lord and do these things that He says for us to do, we can easily become like the Scribes and Pharisees. We will look "down" on the ones that we are supposed to be reaching "out" to.

It is impossible to walk with Jesus if you do not know Him. You can not know Him unless you spend time with Him.

"Let your conversation be full of grace, seasoned with salt..."