in "knowing Jesus personally" Greg Laurie writes:
This verse tackles the issue of whether certain activities will be spiritually constructive in your life - even if it falls into a so-called "gray"area. A more literal translation of that verse is "All things are permissible, but not all things promote growth in Christian character." The next time you question whether you should be seeing a certain movie, participating in a specific activity, or engaging in a certain habit, ask yourself the following questions:
- Will this activity make the things of this world more appealing than the things of God?
- Will it keep me from prayer?
- Will it diminish my hunger for God's Word?
- Will it spiritually tear me down by pulling me away from other Christian believers?
You do not have time for anything that would make this world more attractive, dull your desire for prayer, take away your appetite for bible study, or keep you from Christian fellowship. Instead, look for things that will benefit and build your Christian character."
~ end of quote ~
i was thinking this morning about my vacation ... it was a vacation away from my normal routine, but a believer should never take a vacation away from God ... i thoroughly enjoyed myself - and i believe God wants believers to ENJOY the life He has given us ... yet i hope that my conduct at all times was of one who loves the Lord ... and when i felt that my attitude was slipping, i tried to immediately pray about it and then walk the line for Jesus ... i'm so far from perfect - yet IN Christ i am accepted by God ... *big huge grin* ...
9 comments:
Saija-- So good to see you back! And I'm sure you were a blessing wherever you went. :) It's sad how many Christians think if we are enjoying ourselves then probably we are doing something wrong... I believe the verse which says He has given us all things to enjoy and I also believe He enables us to enjoy this life--and that that enablement is a gift from Him. (Well, don't get me started....) :) Anyway, just wanted to say it's great to see you back--enjoyed your photos, too! Blessings, Debra
You are LUV'in that camera huh? Nice thoughts on being away--even Jesus had to get away from the routine--to rest and pray. In every activity--whether it's personal time with the Lord, family gatherings, vacations, the workplace, we are living testimonies of God's grace. My husband always says, "you never know where your touch may go..." Your touch was felt I know...
debra ... i have been over to visit you, but i have a cold so haven't been online all that much ... *cough cough* ... hope you don't catch it, i did just now cover my mouth while cyber coughing ... ... and amen to being able to live in the moment and enjoy His blessings in our lives ...
antbck ... i'm luv'n the camera for sure ... :o) ... and your husband's quote is right on! blessings!
I concur with Debra's remarks...HE does want us to have joy in our lives too! You know, now that hubby and I celebrate the Biblical holidays, we have come to realize how much TIME OFF WORK the Lord really planned for us...we long for eternity to practice such better!! We are to work 6 days a week but an awful lot of weeks in a year have a holiday there!!
Remember: " Christians Aren't Perfect, Their just Forgiven!" Thank God!!
elizabeth ... everything in balance, right? :o)
sandy ... amen - i love that saying ...
I'm glad for your post....what important truths to remember and be reminded of. Its unbelievable how fast we can forget whats important in this life...well, speaking for myself anyway. Our company just left and its 1:44 a.m. I am so sleepy and just came in to shut the pc down and thought I'd have a look at the blog. You know how it is...smile. Hope you've had a good day....
Dear Saija... I find if I DO question myself, "What is the matter with doing this anyway?", that it indicates that there is a little doubt there and the thing probably ISN'T right.
In the majority of cases, I find that I should stay clear of doing it!!... Especially if it is going to affect somebody else in a negative way!....Love Terry
maggie ann ... i hope you had a good sleep!!! i was coughing at 1:44 - my cold went to my chest ... i feel better today, but my voice is husky ...
terry ... i agree - if in doubt, don't ... isn't that the old saying?
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