Following the Way

Posted on January 7, 2014 by Mark Shields

If we study God’s Word, we will receive directions in how to live. By gaining knowledge from the Bible, from life experiences, and from others we will produce a road map to help us follow the Way. The pathway set before us leads to that which is pure and good and lovely. Like a light in a sometimes dark world, the pathway will be illuminated through each of us.

With God is unlimited knowledge. A sure path has been laid by Jesus Christ and the path leads to a treasure. Seek this treasure which will provide all our needs now and forever. Be an example for others so they will also make wise choices and find this treasure.

Yes, there is definitely a reason for reading and studying the Bible; for asking questions and memorizing scripture. The reason is to answer lives problems, to condition the heart, receive direction, and make good decisions. Here is a video to inspire our thoughts and illuminate our pathway today: I Choose Jesus – Moriah Peters.


Psalm 33:4
For the Word of the Lord is right and true;
He is Faithful in all He does.
The Lord loves righteousness and Justice;
The earth is full of His unfailing love.

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The Truth Provides Our Road Map

Posted on January 6, 2014 by Mark Shields

Photo From Google Images

Reading in 2 Peter 1:12-21, the purpose for Peter writing this letter is to remind us of the truth. We gain spiritual knowledge from Scripture which was spoken from God and carried along by the Holy Spirit. Preparation is the key as we answer questions we have and help anyone who is seeking a relationship with Christ.

Christianity is different than other religions in that we have eyewitnesses to the events that occurred while Jesus walked on earth and the events are documented in the Word. The prophecies were fulfilled and the facts prove that God became flesh; teaching us the best way to live. God’s plan was fulfilled and He will continue to carry out His plan.

As we drive down the road of life, we understand that we go on green and stop on red but we struggle with the simple message of the gospel; thinking it can’t be this easy. What happens is that many make it harder than it is and end up going the wrong direction.

By gaining knowledge from the Bible, from life experiences, and from others we will produce a road map to help us follow the way. The pathway set before us leads to that which is pure and good and lovely. Like a light in a sometimes dark world, the pathway will be illuminated through each of us. 

This day with God, let us pray for God’s direction as we plan the right activities for our day and that these activities fall into place for an amazing day.

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Positive Qualities Taught by Christ

Posted on January 5, 2014 by Mark Shields

Peter suggested in 2 Peter 1 that as Christians, we should plant and cultivate the positive qualities taught by Christ in our heart.

We should respond to God’s work for us with great effort to increase positive qualities like faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, kindness, and brotherly love.

What happens is that these positive qualities growing in us are like steps that lead us closer to God and we have much to look forward to because of the promise of a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (v. 11).

Tomorrow, I will post some other thoughts as I continue the journey through 2 Peter. In the meantime, here is a link to a poem this study has already inspired: The Path.

Have a wonderful Sunday!

Photo Credit
Google Images

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Pathway to Praiseworthy Lives

Posted on January 4, 2014 by Mark Shields

A thought from yesterday’s post is that God’s work has laid the path and we just need to follow the roadmap. As we continue the journey, we can sincerely believe that there will be fuel for our travel. We can enjoy the scenery along the way and celebrate progress throughout each day.

He gives us the resources we need but each individual must plant and cultivate the principles taught by Christ within their soul. When this is done, there will be a future harvest of benefits and eternal rewards.

Nothing compares to the promise we have in Jesus and this makes us want to sing songs like this one: Shout to the Lord –  Michael W. Smith.



Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs. – Psalm 100:1-2

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Building the Steps

Posted on January 3, 2014 by Mark Shields

By adhering to the teachings of Christ, we are building the steps needed to live praiseworthy lives. The apostle named Peter is writing shortly before his death, bringing both warning and hope to believers who receive it. In 2 Peter 1:1-11, he is reminding them to live lives worthy of Jesus who has given power to escape corruption.

We should respond to God’s work for us with great effort to increase positive qualities like faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, kindness, and brotherly love. What inspires is the promise of a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (v. 11).

When driving a car, there is power but we must steer. So in life, there is power to grow which comes from God. Keep on praying for the power of God and the skill to steer in the right direction. Pray that the power from God helps to equip with the virtues listed above and that one virtue builds from the other.

This day with God will be amazing because of Jesus who is God’s gift to us. God’s work has laid the path and we just need to simply follow the road map. As we continue the journey, we can sincerely believe that there will be fuel for our travel. We can also look forward to enjoying the scenery along the way, celebrating progress, and giving praise as we take a step closer to Him each day.

Photo Credit
Google Images

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