Today, I was reminded of how amazing it is to be a Christian.  We as Christians have been given the opportunity to personally know the Creator God of the universe.  Our Creator -- who crafted the intricate workings of every living thing, fine-tuning them so that they function smoothly.  He, who is powerful above all things, made Himself to be a man, suffering pain, temptation, and death.

That death that He died was not only the most excruciating, physically painful death devised by man; but also full of emotional and spiritual torture as all the sins of the entire human race -- past, present, and future -- were placed upon Him.

Jesus died so that He could give God the glory by what was to be accomplished.  By His obedience, humble attitude, and sacrifice, sinners are given mercy and grace.   We are made free from the power that sin held over us, free from the punishment of sin, and free to begin a personal relationship with God.

Being given all of this, how can I not strive to the utmost of my ability to give God glory?  How can I focus on my own sinful desires when God has sacrificed and loved me so much, and when there are millions in this world who have refused or not been able to yet comprehend what a wonderful gift of grace and love they have been given?

I can no longer sit here, thumbs twiddling, accomplishing things only for my own purposes.  I am here for the purpose of giving God glory, and whether at home or at school, I must consciously and consistently make decisions that will aid in furthering God's kingdom.  How is this possible?  Not through my own strength, but through Christ alone.  Only with His strength and guidance can I even hope to bring Him glory.

Faithfulness

God has been so faithful to me, and yet I rarely step back and think about what he has done in my day-to-day life.  Yesterday, I decided to make a list of a few things that He has done over the last few days.  After looking over this list, I've realized that I need to do this more often -- probably every day.  Not only does this process help me remember where God has been working around me, but also helps me give God the glory, instead of clutching it all to myself.

God's Faithfulness

* Bringing up "Endure all things for the Gospel of Christ" when I was frustrated with problems at school the other night

* Encouraging me through godly friends and family

* Giving me peace

* Allowing me to make it to the bus on time, even giving me a seat!

* Helping me to love and know you more

* Bringing me back to your side whenever I fall

* Renewing joy in my heart as I walk more closely with You

* Allowing my Japanese and Choir classes to be a little easier, so that I can spend most of my time on Chemistry and Nutrition

I don't deserve any of this goodness.  I tend to keep so few of my promises.  Yet You, God, are always faithful -- no matter how far I have strayed.  Please keep me close to You, and give me strength to resist giving in to temptation.

 

"So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you do not fall!  No temptation has seized you except what is common to man.  And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.  But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it." 

 

1 Corinthians 10:12-13