Perseverance, Believing and Perfection on July 4th

Yes, we need to strive to live as Christ lived. What happens when we fall short; does this test our faith....

At the same time do not lose faith in yourself when you fall short or when others fall short. Many are sometimes consumed by self doubt. For those that are beginning their lives and careers, sometimes the fear of the unknown and the fear of failure can be distractions from your goals or true purpose. God has great plans for you. As as we grow up and as we age, there will be challenges, obstacles, and opponents but there will also be opportunities, choices, and successes. It is impossible to live a perfect life or not to have any misfortune whatsoever. Carry on, persevere and ask for God’s forgiveness, guidance and protection. Seek out God and his vast knowledge through scripture and it will transform your life. Everything that you need in life is addressed in the scripture.

Ecclesiastes 1:9

9 The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.

The prophets and disciples were not perfect people and yet they delivered the message. Who better to give the message of transformation than some one who has actually lived, faced adversity and transformed their own lives.

2 Corinthians 7:1-2

Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

Micah 6:8

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.

And what does the Lord require of you?

To act justly and to love mercy

and to walk humbly with your God.

Look for the possibilities and have faith in The Lord Our Father that he is with you on your journey. God has a purpose for you. He wants you to live your best life. God wants you to shine and he needs you to assist and encourage others in life and in their faith. Take for instance, the scripture story of David. David was a hard working Shepard that was overlooked for his brothers to be anointed as King. He may not have felt worthy but God knew his heart and thus he was brought forward to lead. When others do not recognize your gifts and purpose, God does. Look to the the Lord for strength as he walks beside you at all times.

Psalm 31:24

Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the LORD!

Deuteronomy 31:6

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, or the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

Believe in God and his Greatness!

Isaiah 41:10

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

1 Samuel 16:7-12

7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

8 Then Jesse called Abinadab and had him pass in front of Samuel. But Samuel said, “The Lord has not chosen this one either.” 9 Jesse then had Shammah pass by, but Samuel said, “Nor has the Lord chosen this one.” 10 Jesse had seven of his sons pass before Samuel, but Samuel said to him, “The Lord has not chosen these.” 11 So he asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?”

“There is still the youngest,” Jesse answered. “He is tending the sheep.”

Samuel said, “Send for him; we will not sit down until he arrives.”

12 So he sent for him and had him brought in. He was glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features.

Then the Lord said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.”

Crochet Art by El Barrio Crochet Collective, Local East Harlem Artists