A New Year A New Beginning!

A New Year A New Beginning

In 2013 God was full of consistent hope. It’s crazy to think that much has changed in a year. From heartbreaks, to the new friendships…I can honestly say 2013 was a year of learning. I have learned to be thankful for every moment you have because you never know when it will be gone. I have learned to appreciate people, especially those that I don’t understand. I have learned to complain less, because it’s honestly not as bad as it seems. I learned that some days were better than other and with good friends you can make it through anything. In 2013, I went through a spiritual growth spurt! This year as I press on, there is no guarantee to what God has planned, but there is a promise that He will always keep and that’s to be with us.

            I kicked off the morning by opening my Bible and reading Paul's story. In Ephesians, Paul presents a two-fold pattern, first explaining the new identity believers have in Christ’s and then bringing out the implications for their new way of life. God has brought everything together under the rule of the Messiah, exalting Jesus above all things. Paul echoes a phrase from Psalm 8 – God placed all things under his feet – to show that Jesus is the truly human one. Jesus fulfills the original human calling to rule over the creation properly. Jews and Gentiles have been brought together into one body, with Jesus at the head. God is now creating one new humanity from all over the world through the reconciling work of the Messiah.

            This means Jesus-followers must give up their former way of life and practice purity in daily living and integrity in their relationships. The reciprocal responsibilities of those in and under authority are used as key examples of the new kinds of relationships God is expecting. Paul cautions his readers that they are entering a spiritual battle. They must arm themselves with all the resources God has provided, until the Messiah brings unity to all things in heaven and on earth.

            Although I was spiritually moved by all of Paul’s words, the readings of Ephesians 5:1-14 really touched me.

“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave him up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

            But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper from God’s holy people. Nor shall there be obscenity, follish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but ration thanksgiving. For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person – such a person is an idolater – has any inheritance in the kingdome of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them.

            For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather exxpose them. It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. This is why it is said:

            “Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” “

Today we often find that people the butt of some jokes, that sexual comments are spoken, that alcohol is used to alter one’s state of mind on a daily occasion, that harmful acts are used against others, or other non-Christ like actions are made. And in a society like this, peer pressure takes over and all personal strength is lost.  I have been in many situations where I have seen one or more of these actions are made. I must admit that in circumstances like this it’s easy for a person to become weak and not stand up for him or herself or another.

Today marks a new beginning. My new beginning of standing up for what is right! In 2014 I plan to share God’s teachings to those who are lost and need the comfort of Christ. I also plan to become closer to those who are followers of Christ!

This year has many things in store, and I cannot wait to share with you! Please keep following my blog post, twitter, and facebook accounts!! If you have comments, questions, or want to talk about anything please do not hesitate to email me at bobbileann@live.com

Have a Great NEW YEAR and God bless you!!

Bobbi LeAnn