I am pleased to introduce a guest blogger today. My son, Christopher has provided today’s post. Chris loves the Lord with his whole heart and is full of the Word of God. He reminds us of the importance of our having a sure foundation. Luke 6:49, ”But he who heard and did nothing is like a man who built a house on the earth without a foundation, against which the stream beat vehemently; and immediately it fell. And the ruin of that house was great.” Take a foundation check today and be sure your faith is set securely on the Rock. Thank you, Chris for this excellent word. Eric

Living the Christian life is an ongoing journey that calls us to align our lives with the teachings of Christ, immerse ourselves in God’s word, and extend love and grace to others. Here's a reminder to help us grow in our faith, and live the life He has called us to.

1. Remember to Seek God's Kingdom First

Matthew 6:33 “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

Putting God first in our lives means prioritizing His will and His righteousness over our own selfish desires. When we seek His kingdom, everything else falls into place.

2. Love One Another

John 13:34-35  “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Love is the hallmark of the Christian life. Jesus emphasized loving others as He has loved us, showcasing the importance of love in our daily interactions.  It can be harder and harder to love those around us, especially those who do evil, but it is a necessity.  This does not mean we should condone sin.  Jesus always gently rebuked sinners and then after forgiving them commanded that they go and sin no more.  The greatest way to love others is to teach them about Jesus and His love for them. I know it can be difficult sometimes, but even just showing them love can go a long way in drawing them to Christ.

3. Forgive as You Have Been Forgiven

Ephesians 4:32 “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Forgiveness is a powerful act that reflects God's grace towards us. By forgiving others, we mirror the mercy and forgiveness God has extended to us through Christ.  When you forgive someone, you release yourself from burdens you were carrying that can hinder your ability to move in the power of the Holy Spirit.

4. Pray Continually

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18  “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Prayer keeps us connected to God. It’s through prayer that we can express our gratitude, seek guidance, and find peace. Make prayer a constant part of your life. As you begin to better recognize God’s voice, you can better let Him guide what you say, how you react, how you treat others…and it becomes easier and easier as you put it into practice.

5. Read and Meditate on the Scriptures

Psalm 119:105 “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

The Bible is our guide in life. Regularly reading and meditating on the scriptures helps us understand God's will and strengthens our faith. It can be easy to fall out of the habit of reading and studying the Bible, especially as we become distracted by life, but it is absolutely vital if you wish to be spiritually alive.

6. Serve Others with Humility

Mark 10:45 “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”*

Jesus exemplified the heart of a servant. Following His example, we should seek opportunities to serve others selflessly, reflecting Christ’s love through our actions. What better way to shine the light of Jesus on the lost, then to show them love through service.

7. Maintain a Spirit of Gratitude

Colossians 3:17 “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

Gratitude transforms our perspective. By recognizing God's blessings in our lives and expressing thankfulness, we cultivate a positive and joyful outlook.  Nobody is drawn toward a bitter, ungrateful person. Do everything you do with the attitude that you are doing it for God.  He literally died to give you eternal life, what other reason could you possibly need to be thankful?  

Living a Christian life is about growing closer to God, loving others, and embodying the teachings of Christ. Let the scriptures guide you as you strive to live a life that honors God and blesses those around you, which in turn draws them toward Christ. Remember, it’s a journey, and God’s grace is with you every step of the way.