12/12/2022
We all yearn to live in a manner worthy of Christ’s calling. As Christians, we crave to fulfill and walk the path of God's purpose. We want to be able to walk into a grocery store, restaurant, mall, or any public space full of a variety of people and change lives. We want to show people the light of Jesus and help others find this light. We want to heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, and cast out demons. We are told that when we step fully into the presence of Jesus, we are made capable of doing amazing works through Him.
"Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father." - John 14:12
There is nothing holding us back from our potential to do these things except ourselves. We can change the world in amazing ways once we learn the traits it takes to be a true follower of Jesus, truly believe in Him, and acquire true faith in Him. When the disciples had all of these things, God himself empowered them to do amazing things all over the world.
"And as you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, and cast out demons. Freely you received, freely give." - Matthew 10:7-8
How do we get there? The way to build up true faith and belief in Jesus is to nourish your relationship with Him through prayer and His word. Take quality time with Him to deepen your connection until His Holy Spirit grows so full within you. Certain traits within yourself will start to come forward after you spend time with Him, but it’s important to keep a mental note of what these traits are. In today's scripture, we see that we are meant to be humble, gentle, patient, and loving. What does this mean?
Christ instructs us to live in humility, as if we were children.
"Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”- Matthew 18:4
Do not exalt yourself as if you are of any importance. Remain humble, and He will exalt you. Even Jesus was humble throughout His entire earthly ministry. He never let the fact that He was God's son interfere with His mission or make him too proud. We are definitely not nearly as important as He is, so be mindful that you’re not acting as if you are. Being gentle is another important trait that goes a long way toward avoiding conflict and spreading love. Being gentle is something that comes from the fruit of the Spirit. As you grow in your relationship with the Holy Spirit within you, these traits will become more prevalent.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things.Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.”- Galatians 5:22–24
Another key part of the fruit of the Spirit is patience. Patience casts out anger, pridefulness, anxiety, and fear. Patience is born of love. Love is above all else and is majorly important in our walk with God. God is love!
"And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them." -1 John 4:16
Love is the most important trait that we should carry within ourselves. Love produces patience, kindness, gentleness, humbleness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control. Love others and love yourself just as Jesus did! Strive to show the love of Jesus to everyone around you, even your enemies. "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins." -1 Peter 4:8
