Thursday, August 4, 2011

FRUITING at ALL Seasons

Matthew 7

Inspired thots

It is human nature to 'bear fruits'. Being FRUITFUL is being productive which is a positive thing; and everyone needs to be positive in most areas all the time. But we can be 'negative' without being conscious through our attitude and behavior.

We must be careful of bad fruits in ourselves as well as in others as both sources can cause detriments to us; especially from within. It changes our personality and character negatively; not pleasing to God. It is all about DECEPTION too. Others may try to deceive us by coming in sheep's clothings when they are actually 'wolves'. We can deceive others through judging them harshly when we are no better. It is called 'Double Standard'.

We can deceive ourselves by reacting according to our convenience.

Let me be truly alert to these deceptions... especially within.

 Lets start with ME!

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Being SEEN by Men

Matthew 6

Inspired thots

It is a human trait - to be SEEN by men - we are a relational being; seeking approval and acceptance.
However, the best approval and acceptance is from God our Creator; hence, let me strive to put off the things of this world and seek the Heavenly delights from my Heavenly Father. It is a whole different ballgame! But one more fulfilling and exciting! Yet, the safer and better option.

It will lead to 'Treasures in Heaven' which are lasting. Hence, no worries... worries are really on things of the world which are not crucial for eternity. A right change of focus and heart will keep me in the right direction in all things.

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

A Higher Level of Righteousness

Matthew 5

Inspired thots

There are two kinds of righteousness: righteousness of GOD and righteousness of the Pharisees - man.

God's righteousness brings Fulfillment and Completeness while the righteousness of the Pharisees is only for now and a man-pleaser; a show-off; a self-seeking glory.

Hence, the words of Jesus in this chapter are to change hearers to His kind of righteousness; to turn people away from their own righteousness to His righteousness by caring for others and putting others before self
just like Jesus.

Jesus loves both the righteous and the unrighteous.

Monday, August 1, 2011

Stay Alert to take on the Right Action

Matthew 4

Inspired thots

Jesus starting His ministry when John the Baptist was sent into prison. Jesus was alert to the situation around Him to take the appropriate action.

> He began to preach the gospel
> He began to call His disciples
> He began to heal


In all of Jesus' ways, He was willing to suffer first and glory later; whereas humans like me, prefer to glory now and preferably not have to suffer.  Such a difference!

Sunday, July 31, 2011

Righteous John the Baptist

Matthew 3

Inspired thots

I am shamed when I read of John the Baptist in this chapter. He is faithful and righteous in doing God's will; HE REALLY PREPARES THE WAY OF THE LORD FOR JESUS...

But today, man... I.... tend to ask God to prepare the way for ME.... always scared of stepping out for the Lord... always asking for God's mercy and grace; not bold; not sure of God's greatness; not confident of His love to carry me through.  Still thinking of SELF rather than God... that is why it reflects in my prayers...

"Lord, Bless Me!"

instead of "LORD, thy will be done!"

Perhaps step by step... I will release more of self; LESS of Me and MORE of Christ.

Friday, July 29, 2011

No Thwarting of God's Plans

Matthew 2

Inspired thots

When it is the Lord's will, no one can stop Him. Man may plan and devise but God's plans cannot be thwarted. He alone is God; He knows best. It is best to flow along with Him.

It is only the callous heart that strays; not God. How awesome is He that He does right and still be merciful on me.

Yes, thank You Lord for giving me So much! Your Son, salvation, eternal life, forgiveness, love, blessings... the list goes on.

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Life through Birth

Matthew 1

Inspired thots

Life comes from birth; the generations involved in a family are many. How wonderful to be able to trace your ancestry. It is amazing to note the lineage of Jesus which records some of the familiar names of characters who played an active role in the lineage history as recorded in the bible.

Yes, some are more famous than others. Nevertheless, each name is recorded; they played their role and they deserve the credit accorded to them.

Even ladies the wives, are not excluded. God is no respecter of persons or gender. He can use every obedient and righteous person to fulfill His plans.

May He find me obedient and acceptable to work with Him in His plans for His glory. Yes, I want my name to be in the Book of Life!