by Matrid Harper
During difficult times, we must be steadfast in service and praises to our God and be thankful for the strength to persevere.
We cannot serve the Lord to please this world for this world can never provide us with the peace that passes all understanding. We instead serve our Lord to please Him alone and that clearly re-affirms why we are called His children. Our bodies are temples of God and that’s why we should all be very careful how we live our lives and always strive to please our Heavenly Father. We need to practice self-control. Galatians 6:8 “Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit.”
Serving the Lord brings new experiences in our lives. Putting all our trust in the Most High gives us overwhelming confidence to walk with our heads high for we know that; “No power in the sky above or in the earth below can separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:39.” With that in my mind, there is no reason not to stand boldly and proclaim the goodness of our Lord and to share His Word in our communities and around the world. Whether we are despised or misunderstood by the world, we must always remain vigilant at all costs.
Therefore, we cannot be discouraged if others aren’t willing to commit themselves to God; we should press on to encourage them by “walking the talk” even if it means standing alone, but on the truth. Let people see in us the reflection of Jesus. Starting with our immediate families, communities, workplaces and in all we do. James 2:17 “So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless”. It makes no sense claiming we love and serve the Lord but our actions are contrary.
Over the years, I have experienced a lot, but my desire to serve my Lord increases with each life challenge. I continue to pray that Christians do not become discouraged by the events happening in our country or world but be reminded that our God is in control and nothing can happen to us that God is not able to fix.
