Beliefs, Confession, Guidance!

In this coming new year, we all need to get an understanding of what it is we believe and then our beliefs (what we confess with our mouths) should guide everything we do.

If we say we believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God (God in the flesh) and we should live according to The Word, then we should not promote any beliefs or conformity to anything that does not align with The Word.

We should not hate or humiliate others simply because they do not believe what we do or because they are different. What a boring world this would be if we all looked alike, thought alike, and talked alike, and did everything the exact same way. If God had wanted clones, He could have accomplished that. He created us uniquely individual, capable of doing all sorts of great things to His glory, according to His Word. He has given all gifts--that differ--so we might all enjoy the collective benefits of all the gifts He has given.

The gifts I reference are not just the spiritual gifts needed by apostles, prophets, pastors, evangelists, and teachers or those listed in I Corinthians 12--tongues, interpretation, miracles, healing, discernment, wisdom, knowledge, faith, or prophecy--these are needed to build the Kingdom of God so that all needs are met. I'm referring to the "natural gifts" that He gives so all may benefit--the gift of writing, creating music, singing, painting, sculpturing, nurturing, counseling, parenting, comforting, encouraging, helping, and a host of other gifts--that many can enjoy whether they are saved or not.

However, being saved--puts us in a unique position to promote the Gospel with the gifts He has given. The Believer should always utilize the gifts given to promote the Love of God and in obeying His Word. The unbelieving are also gifted and most of them use their gifts to entertain the masses according to their gift and in many cases, entice people to live in opposition to God's Word.

It is not that Believers are superior to unbelievers; it is simply a matter of Believers knowing our Risen Savior and living to please Him, rather than appeasing fleshly dictates.

When the end comes, we are all going the same path--through death (if The Lord delays His return), so none are better than the other, but some are more astute than others because of the relationship established with Jesus!