Everyday we are faced with choices. We choose what to eat, what to think, what to say, what to wear, the list can go on. Then at times, there are even bigger choices, like where should I live or work? When should I retire? Choices that seem like no big deal to some people can be life changing for others. But no matter how small or how big, the choices we make will have some type of impact.
Photo by: Juan Pablo Serrano Arenas of Spain 🇪🇸
We as Christians must remember that our choices must be guided by the truth of God’s Word. We need godly wisdom so that we make choices that will glorify Jesus. It can be tempting to do what’s easy or most comfortable, but we have to keep choosing Jesus in all we say and do. He will empower us. When we are unsure or feel confused, He is only a prayer away. He will show us the way if we ask; then we must obey His instructions.
1 John 4:18 NIV, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.”
Fear is sometimes a natural response when we feel something is beyond our control. Our minds can run wild imagining the worst possible outcomes. In those moments or days where we experience fear, learning to make prayer our first response can be difficult, but it is necessary. Prayer allows us to cast our fears and worries upon God, and receive His help. It gives God the opportunity to give us guidance and open our eyes to see things from His perspective. Through prayer, He will intervene on our behalf. Knowing that God loves us perfectly will bring peace to our hearts and calm our fears, even in life’s toughest situations. When our hope is Him, we can overcome our fears.
1 John 3:18 NLT, “Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions.”
Last month, I had the pleasure of attending a webinar and heard Anne Beiler speak, the founder of Auntie Anne’s, the world’s largest pretzel franchise. As she candidly shared about her faith in Jesus Christ, and how He helped her to grow personally and professionally, I was inspired. She said she always felt so small and insignificant as a person, and had to learn to believe that she is who God says she is.
I have enjoyed Auntie Anne’s pretzels numerous times in the past while at the shopping mall. Most recently while my daughter was visiting from Spain this summer, we had some of these delicious pretzels; however, I had never heard the story behind it all. She brought much hope to those of us who want to lead like Jesus in our daily lives.
Photo by: Eva Elijas Of Estonia 🇪🇪
Some points she made about leadership are below:
Lead by example:
We often hear this, but to actually do it takes perseverance because we sometimes have to go against the grain, and choose the ways of Jesus over the ways of friends, family, or others we are around. (Matthew 19:29)
Invest in others and respect them:
We live in a world where we are encouraged to selfishly put our own needs before the needs of others. But Jesus says to think of others first and love them. Kindness and compassion are needed in our world. (Philippians 2:3-4)
Do not engage in negativity:
This is a reminder to avoid godless chatter and useless arguments. In the world of social media, it’s easy to get caught up in negativity. We must even guard against negativity in our personal lives and in the workplace. It’s not necessary to respond to every negative thing that comes our way. (2 Timothy 2:16)
Trying to be perfect is impossible:
Excellence is possible, but perfection is not. Represent Jesus by striving for excellence, which simply means doing things to the best of your ability. He is our strength. (1 Peter 2:9)
Do not compromise truth:
Be who you are in Jesus Christ, and set a good example of His love to those around you. Make wise choices and act in a way that reflects His glory. Stand for the truth in God’s Word. (John 17:17)
Exodus 19:12 NLT, “Mark off a boundary all around the mountain. Warn the people, ‘Be careful! Do not go up on the mountain or even touch its boundaries. Anyone who touches the mountain will certainly be put to death.”
Just like He did with the Israelites in this verse, God also sets boundaries in our lives. He knows that certain actions, situations, or people will lead us down the path of destruction. We have to trust God, and believe that He only wants what is best for us. He is all wise and all knowing, and we can not let our own desires, curiosity, or impatience cause us to disobey the Lord.
Photo by: Joël Super of Switzerland 🇨🇭
Something may seem right from our view, but God knows it is not right for us; He can see the big picture, so we must trust His wisdom. Godly well balanced boundaries are good, pray and ask God to help you create and maintain healthy boundaries in your life.
Drawing Closer to Christ 