Why do we do what we do? Sometimes, it is a reflex, a learned response that becomes somewhat automatic, sometimes it is an emotional reaction that we don’t control, and sometimes we do things because we think through our reason’s and consciously take actions. Regardless of why we do what we do, as adults we are responsible for those actions. I think most would also agree that in the absence of a disability, adults should be able to control their actions with their thoughts.

There is competition for our thoughts. Our human nature is regularly trying to get us to focus on satisfying our short term desires, pleasures, and greed. As Christians, the Holy Spirit in us is encouraging us to focus on the things of the Spirit, Love, Joy, Peace, and Salvation.

Paul writes in Romans 8:5-8, “Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God.”

What we let control our minds, controls our actions. Letting our human nature control our thoughts interferes with and possibly destroys our relationship with God.

Dear Lord, by your grace we are saved and are given the Holy Spirit to live in us. Help us give control of our minds to your Spirit’s guidance, and have the courage and will to turn away from the evil and Immoral behaviors that often pass for “normal” in our sinful nature. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

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In modern times when we hear the word “peace” we tend to think of the absence of war or absence of conflict between people. Jesus is described in the Bible as the “Prince of Peace” and in John 14:27 He says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

Jesus’ peace is a peace for you personally. Closer to the dictionary definition of “quiet and tranquility: Mental calm; serenity.” We can have this peace through our faith in Jesus. He wants us to pass our troubles, sorrows, and concerns to Him and ask for His help. If we trust Him, we can be at peace.

The apostle Paul describes it in Philipians 4:7 “The peace of God which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” We may not understand it, but through faith in God we can have peace.

Dear Lord, Help us trust You and accept Your peace in our lives, knowing that You will guard and protect us. In Jesus’ name. Amen

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What if you had a magic device that would take the fear out of everything in your life. You have a job interview, big presentation, children leave for an overnight school trip, your teenager goes out with friends, and you start getting scared…press the button on the magic device, and peace and confidence replace the fear.

207 times in the Bible, God says “fear not”. Why? Because God is with us. Isaiah 41:10 says. “Fear not 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 victorious right hand.”

So in some ways we have the most powerful “magic device” there is, God, with us, all the time. So when fear comes, stop and ask for God to help you and give you strength and peace in your time of fear.

Dear Lord help us remember that you are always there to help us. Help us live our lives demonstrating the faith and confidence in You. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Growing up we all probably had an experience where we did something wrong and were punished by a parent or other adult. Do you remember saying, or hearing someone say, “I’ll never do that again.” after being punished or scolded?

Psalm 119:67 says, “I used to wander off until you disciplined me; but now I closely follow your word.” The NIV translation writes this verse like this, “Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey your word.”

It is pretty clear from this passage that sometimes things happen to us as a form of discipline, to get us back on the right track. I don’t think that every “affliction” is some kind of discipline from God, but when things are not going well, we should think about why that might be, and turn to God for help, and guidance. Whether we are bringing discipline on ourselves, or our trials are just part of life, turning to God is always the right response.

Psalm 139:24 says, “Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.”

Dear Lord, much of life remains a mystery to us, but we know You are working Your plan for each of us. Help us turn to You when we are afflicted, and find Your will for us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Many of us have competitive hobbies like, sports, cards, board games, and others where we compete with our friends to maintain, and improve our skills.

Competitive and non-competitive based hobbies have traditions for sharing experiences and stories. For instance, Pilots have a tradition they call “Hangar flying,” which is usually a small group congregating somewhere around the airport talking about flying. Though it is motivated by the enjoyment of sharing stories and experiences of an activity they all enjoy, it also allows them to learn from each other, and become better pilots.

These activities are ways people improve, refine, maintain and appreciate these hobbies, and activities.

In a similar way, studying the bible, sharing and discussing our faith and experiences with other Christians strengthens and expands our faith and walk with God.

Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” We should take the opportunities that arise to sharpen each other in our Christian walk.

Dear Lord, help us find friends and opportunities in which to share our Christianity, so that we all may grow and be sharper tools for your work. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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