Look to the Interest of Others

Posted on January 24, 2017 by Mark Shields

Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. 

As shared in the post “Aim to Please God Only” Paul, Silas, and Timothy set out to share the Gospel message not for their own interest but for the interest of the new Christians. They took a risk of being persecuted but were courageous and kind to stand in the Light to be seen as who they were with their main ambition being to encourage, comfort, and urge the new Christians to live worthy lives.

As we go about our day, let us also stand in the Light to share this great message: All God wants from us is our heart. Enjoy today’s video: All You’ve Ever Wanted – Casting Crowns.


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Aim to Please God Only

Posted on January 23, 2017 by Mark Shields

Paul, Silas, and Timothy were at risk of being put in prison for teaching about Christ but as we read in 1 Thessalonians 2:1-16, Paul defends himself and his companions by boldly sharing the Gospel. They graciously shared with joy and perseverance in the face of persecution.

They shared the message in a practical, courteous, gentle, and open way with the aim to please God only.  Much like a parent to their children, they encouraged, comforted, and urged them to live lives worthy of God so they would change the world for the better.

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This day with You Lord, we have been given a high calling which inspires us to be prepared for the challenge. Move in us the willingness to read and study the Word on a daily basis in order to be prepared. Daily Bible study will be a measure of our aim to love and serve You Lord. Amen.

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The Week Ahead

Posted on January 22, 2017 by Mark Shields

This week, we will be sharing some thoughts from the study of 1 Thessalonians 2 and 3.

Below are some questions for reflection 

Accurate Thinking

1 Thessalonians 2:1-16
How does Paul defend himself and his companions from the charges brought against them? How can Paul and the others preach with joy and perseverance in the face of this persecution (v. 4)? What characteristics do Paul and the others show as they work with these new Christians?

1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:12
For what reason is Timothy sent to visit the Thessalonian Christians? What ideas do you see in this chapter about how you can encourage other Christians that are far away from you? What requests does Paul make of God for the Thessalonians?

 

 

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Your Great Purpose

Posted on January 21, 2017 by Mark Shields

This weekend, think about your God given purpose. This poem was written for ideas and inspiration to spark this thought process.

Mark Shields's avatarStep Ahead

Start fulfillng your purpose now;
never ever looking back
only wishing it had been done
but realizing you got off track.

Step ahead with a plan
that meets people’s needs;
that matches your values
and does many good deeds.

Have a list of dreams;
things to do and when.
Like an athlete seeing
what it takes to win.

Write out things that inspire
like a quote or Bible verse.
Find a link to a video that stirs
and helps the mind to rehearse.

Map out how to stay on course
with a timeline for tasks content
because deadlines are important
like a clock at a sporting event.

As the fourth quarter approaches,
continue to gain greater focus
so that before time runs out,
you’ve met your great purpose.

Poem by Mark Shields – © 01-19-2017
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Grace Wins Every Time

Posted on January 20, 2017 by Mark Shields

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ. – Colossians 2:8 

As written about in the post “Steadily Towards Victory”, the Thessalonians overcame violent opposition but succeeded. They made the impossible possible with a faith that was initiated by the love of God and His people. They went the extra mile with the steadfastness of hope.

The world seems to always put us in panic mode; making mountains out of mole hills but we don’t have to follow or listen to what the world tells us … just keep heading steadily towards the victory knowing grace wins every time.

This day with God, have the attitude that we’ve been there, done that because when constantly relying on God’s guidance, the challenges in life are handled victoriously on a regular bases. When they are, people will start looking at us and want what we have; the hope that gives optimism in a time of despair, faith that gives courage in a time of doubt, and the love of God which always brings victory.

The Bible gives us great advice and because victory is assured through Jesus Christ, we will make it through anything. Receive inspiration through this song: Through All of It – Colton Dixon.


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