Christian Living

You Have It All

by paul hoffmaster
03/14/22
Free to Share

  Message Writer
  Hire Writer

Tweet

Many of our prayers seem to center on self-awareness.  Our desire is to solidify our “home” base rather than center on the needs of others.  We seem to be more concerned with preventive maintenance than we are with centering on the needs of those within the scope of our radar.  I have learned a very simple principle on my journey to the “Promised Land:” to break my mirrors and look out the windows for opportunities to be a blessing.  As I become aware of the needs of others and release my compassion and workable love for them, my needs become secondary.  Not only do those needs become less important to me, but in many cases, they are erased without any attention on my part.  It is basically learning to go out your front door looking for opportunities to be a blessing, while others are coming in your back door fulfilling their need to be a blessing. 

Paul wrote he had learned that in whatever “situation” he would find himself, to be content. (Philippians 4:11)  The author of Hebrews elaborates on being content with the things that you have. (Hebrews 13:5)  How can someone be content when they face challenges in their life, such as financial, physical, and social issues?  The answer is displayed in a Biblical “billboard,” with bold and colorful letters: I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU NOR FORSAKE YOU. (Hebrews 13:5b)  Those who read and believe that “billboard” will be able to proclaim boldly that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)  Jesus is with me as those financial challenges confront me.  Jesus is with me as those physical attacks surround me.  Jesus is with me as I feel alone, even as I am surrounded by people.  We must continue to be conscious of Jesus’ presence in everything we do in life.  The more we reflect on Him, the more satisfaction we have in whatever “state” we find ourselves.  Because of Jesus’ presence, we find ourselves continually offering the “sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name.” (Hebrews 13:15)

Being Jesus conscious is to be constantly aware of His presence and sustaining power.  More “billboards” catch our eyes as we make our daily routines.  II Corinthians 9:8, Ephesians 3:20, Philippians 4:19, II Peter 1:11 display daily reminders that through Jesus, God’s promises abound.  Many Christians ask God to give them things that He has already given them.  Instead of petitioning for Divine favors, let us realize we are already highly favored.  We have been “…given all things that pertain unto life and godliness …” (II Peter 1:3)  Instead of spending time on our knees asking God for blessings, let us appropriate what He has already given us!  Let us walk in the light of His Word looking for opportunities to display His works that are within us!