1 Peter 1:13-16

So think clearly and exercise self-control. Look forward to the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. So you must live as God’s obedient children. Don’t slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn’t know any better then. But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. For the Scriptures say, “You must be holy because I am holy.” NLT

I herd one preacher say "to be holy is impossible but the more that we are 'wholly' committed to God the more 'holy' we can be."

James 1:2-3

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. NLT

Don't you wish and hope for a life that is full of ease? If everyday could be sunny, warm, and free from trouble. James says that when troubles come our way, we should consider it an opportunity for joy. During times of trials we become stronger and grow in maturity. This is a good thing, but too often we don't want it. Could i consider trials a joy, or as another translation puts it, can i "make trials my friend?" Don't miss out on an opportunity to grow and mature in your walk with the Lord through a trial.

Philippians 3:10

Amplified Bible: [For my determined purpose is] that I may know Him [that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly], and that I may in that same way come to know the power outflowing from His resurrection [[a]which it exerts over believers], and that I may so share His sufferings as to be continually transformed [in spirit into His likeness even] to His death, [in the hope]

A.B. Simpson said:
Once it was the blessing now it is the Lord, Once it was a feeling not it is his word, Once it was his gifts i wanted now it is the giver, Once i sought healing now i seek himself alone.

Never loose that! don't forget or get too caught up in things and miss the one who our lives should be all about!

Matthew 11:25

"At that time Jesus said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children."

Dear Lord, may I never become to smart in my own mind. I desire to know more of you and I want more of you. I pray I would never out reason the moving of your Holy Spirit in my life. May I not become too smart to trust you in faith.

John 9:4

As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.

These are great verses to remind me of my calling and the commitment I need to have. I am created for eternity and this world is temporary. I must make the most of my time here. I have all eternity to live!

- Rick

Prayer

Lord today I want to live for you. I need motivation, strength, and guidance. Fill me with your Holy Spirit. Use me and control me. May I be your instrument to bring the life saving good news of the gospel to those around me.

John 5:24

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life."

Too many are living a dead life. They desire to "pass from death to life" but are looking in so many wrong places. I personally know that Salvation comes from hearing the word of God but do I really use that to try and tell others about Christ? It seems like I will try some grand scheme or some new program to try to get people to respond to Christ, But the best and most trusted approach is the Word of God.