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Awareness

God has a funny way of testing us in our personal worlds. God tests us, not to assign an “F”, but to give us opportunities to learn how to be a good Christian example. Have you ever noticed that things are occurring all around you–some of the same occurrences? Maybe you’ve stopped and thought “why does this keep happening to me?” Have you ever considered that this is God giving you ample opportunities to be obedient to Him?

An Odd Occurrence

It was around dusk when Blake parked her car at Publix. It was late, and the parking lot was quite empty on this cold winter night. As Blake swung her door open to get out, a woman suddenly appeared out of nowhere. Her head was completely covered by a scarf.  As you can imagine, this startled Blake pretty badly. The lady said, “I have small children and I was wondering if there’s anything you can do to help me?” Without hesitation, Blake dug through her purse for her emergency cash stash and gave the stranger all she had. The lady graciously accepted and said, “Please read Psalms 33:13-15. You will blessed for your kindness.” After Blake arrived home, she pulled out her bible and read the scripture. Tears poured down her cheeks as she realized what had just happened. What a blessing! Psalms 33:13-15 (KJV) reads, “The Lord looketh from heaven; he beholdeth all the sons of men. 14 From the place of his habitation he looketh upon all the inhabitants of the earth. 15 He fashioneth their hearts alike, he considereth all their works.”

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Reap What You Sow

Some may call it Karma, we call it God’s favor! When we accept Christ, we accept many personal Christian responsibilities. Think about the fruits of the spirit. The spirit dwells in the saved…love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance. These are all  attributes that should be visible in a Christian’s life. We should give when someone is in need. Share, even if we don’t have enough to share. Display love, even to the unlovable. Persevere, even when things seem impossible. To live and demonstrate Christ-like actions is to provide for others even though we may feel it’s not impactful. God fully understands we are not all called to solve the world’s problems or pay major debt off for someone.  The majority of us are on this earth to answer to those in need within our church, social ring, communities and families. How? That’s for you to observe. Look around–there’s a need at every corner. Maybe it’s visiting someone who is ill, providing a home-cooked meal for someone who’s had a hectic schedule, reaching out to let someone know you care about them, or something as simple as a random act of kindness. Have prayer spontaneously with someone when he/she is discouraged, upset, or asks for advice. Pick up the phone and call someone to tell them you’ve been thinking about them. Tell people what they mean to you. Provide your God-given talents to your church or your community. Giving goes far, far beyond money alone. Be aware. Try to avoid getting so caught up in your own life, that you miss a personal blessing.

A Simple Reminder

The bible is the best manual we have on how to love, problem-solve and walk through life.  Luke 6:38 (KJV) reads, “³⁸ Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” What an awesome promise to know your hard work is never unaccounted for! What type of fruit do you bear? The beauty of this scripture is the simple reminder that no act goes unseen. But remember, God knows our hearts. He knows our intent. Give out of love and be cautious not to expect anything in return. This is the best way to give God all the glory. Giving is an attitude, a lifestyle.

Personal Reflection, Discussion & Call to ACTION!

1. Recall a time when you provided a kind service or act for someone. How did it make you feel? How did you grow spiritually through your kind deed?

2. What resources, talents or efforts could you offer to people around you that doesn’t cost a thing? Make of list of all possibilities and identify where and how these could be used to bless others.

3. Call to ACTION! *Make a personal pledge to provide a kind deed every single day. Keep a journal and get your family involved. This journal will forever be a keepsake for you and your family.*

Scripture: Psalms 33:13-15, Luke 6:38, Galatians 6:7-9

Many Blessings,

4 Sisters Blogging

Kendra, Tonia, Blake & Tiffany