So we have been greatly encouraged in the midst of our troubles and suffering, dear brothers and sisters, because you have remained strong in your faith.
(1 Thessalonians 3:7 NLT)
Whether you stand or fall never just impacts you but those who know you as well, for no man or woman is an island and in this life the choices you make, the places you go, the things you do and say, whether your faith is strong or you fold beneath the weight of the enemy’s tricks, all these things impact not only you but those around you as well. For we cannot live secret lives apart from who we are. The part of us that we allow others to see is of course part of who we are (or better yet who we could be) but so is the part we keep hidden. That’s why God desires a pure heart, a heart that admits when it is wrong and believes He has the power to change us and one that is willing to submit to His authority, regardless of what our eyes tell us or what our minds would have us believe. For we are not led by the physical but by the spirit within and it is by God’s Spirit, the Holy Spirit, that Truth will be revealed and those who remain in Him shall know Truth and it will set them free.
In this life we can choose to be a “Way Maker” or an “Obstacle” in other’s journey simply by our attitude, actions, and words. Of course we would all say the “Way Maker” is what we want to be but these three things often tell a different story. If we put on a happy face and speak kind words but harbor within our hearts bitterness and strife or if we speak evil of one and in favor of another for our own purpose which do you think we have become? I am speaking to myself first concerning these things but don’t be fooled every man, woman, and child needs to search their own hearts in as much as God has revealed Truth to them about what’s on the inside. If you cannot hear Him speaking then examine your own life. When was the last time you have set apart time from your busy schedule to be with God, to read His Word, to pray, and to worship? Draw close to Him and He will draw close to you.
Those who have fallen and have been labeled a “failure” by society, if they are willing to accept the Truth God has revealed to them about themselves they will always have an advantage over those who appear strong or righteous because the Truth is if we are depending on ourselves to be good then our abilities are very limited for human kindness is dark, deceitful, and self-serving but when we recognize God’s ability to change who we are and we are ready for that change and we give authority to Him to do so what He does through us, not only for our sake but for the sake of others is unlimited. So remain strong in the faith He has given you. Do not limit what God can do in your life by turning from Him but remain strong in faith, hope, and love.
Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for Him to act. Don't worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes. Stop being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper—it only leads to harm. For the wicked will be destroyed, but those who trust in the LORD will possess the land.
(Psalms 37:7-9 NLT)
