But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. (KJV) ( Proverbs 4:18 )

Our lives have so much potential.  When we choose to live godly lives we have the chance to tell a beautiful story that grows in impact up till the day we meet Jesus face to face.  Choose the path of the just and watch and see as God uses you to be His light in the lives of others!

And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool: Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts? (KJV) ( james 2:3-4 ) 

When we become Christ followers, we must live as God requires, showing no favoritism and loving all people.  Let’s not judge others or their status in Christ by their economic means or any other prejudice.  God has fearfully and wonderfully made each person.  As believers we should show everyone the love of Christ in all our interactions. 

For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?  And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? (KJV) ( Matthew 5:46-47 ) 

As God’s people, we are representatives of the difference He has made in our lives.  If we behave the way nonbelievers do, how does this glorify God?  It’s often difficult and ironic to love those who have hurt you in some way, whether it’s a coworker or even your father or mother.  However, it’s amazing how much peace comes to you when you learn to replace resentment with love.  

And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? (KJV) ( Matthew 7:3  ) 

Have you noticed that basically anytime you approach another person with judgement in your heart, things go badly? That’s because only God sees our hearts clearly.  Instead of judging others, God advices we offer friendship to those around us.  Hard words spoken in friendship, bring life.  All words said in judgement hurt.  

For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. (KJV) ( 1 John 3:11 ) 

Why does the apostle John repeat that we must love one another even though we have heard it from the beginning?  It’s because of the importance of the message.  Other things get in the way, our minds get distracted, our selfish desires begin to overwhelm us.  Perhaps this is a message that fades over time and we need to remind ourselves over and over to love others more.  Is there someone you are angry at today?  If so, how can you show them your love, even though you are frustrated? 

Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.(KJV) ( Ephesians 4:26-27 ) 

Festering anger only leads to resentment and irritability, which break down relationships. While some distance may help temporarily, don’t allow the issue to go unresolved. God provides peace, grace and forgiveness to all of us, and desires us to extend the same acts to others. If you’re experiencing these moments with your spouse or kids, apply this tool given to us by God.

Rejoice evermore. (KJV) ( 1 Thessalonians 5:16 ) 

Can you find happiness wherever you are in life? If so, this is a powerful lesson that will bless you throughout life. Otherwise, we will runaway from relationships, environments, jobs, or even cities to escape unhappiness. Ultimately we never deal with our unhappiness and carry it around to the next friendship, job, or marriage. It’s helpful to recognize joy, embracing contentedness, or stop comparisons that cause you to be dissatisfied with your life. Practice identifying your joy in life. 

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (KJV) ( Proverbs 3:6 ) 

Usually we reserve the big decisions for God to throw in His two cents, such as job options, marriage partner, and moving possibilities.  Yet we are quick to make “smaller” decisions without giving any thought to God’s will.  Where we spend our time, who we spend it with, and the words we say are decisions we make daily, but don’t think twice about inviting God into the process.  It’s quite possibly these smaller decisions which make a greater impact on our lives when we ask God to show us His will.  The next time you make a decision, invite God.