Tag Archives: discernment

July 15
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“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.  Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will.”  (Romans 12:2, NIV)

We cannot discern God’s will with an earth-bound mind.

An earth-bound mind conforms to the will and the ways of our world.  An earth-bound minds cares more about what pleases others than what pleases God.  It is a mind that is squeezed and pressured from all of the forces outside of us; what we hear and see.

A transformed mind is also informed by other sources, but instead of coming from the outside in; it comes from the inside out — as true transformation always does.

We can change our actions without changing our mind; but we cannot change our thinking without witnessing an eventual change in our deeds.  A mind that is informed, and transformed, by the spirit of God will always know the will of God.   – Luther

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November 24
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“Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful.  Mercy triumphs over judgment.”  (James 2:12-13, NIV)

The disciple of Jesus should endeavor to be merciful in all of his or her judgments because the measure by which we judge others shall be used to judge us; and the mercy we extend to others shall be returned to us.

This does not mean that we should ever excuse evil, or turn a blind eye to wrong-doers.  Yet, even the harshest judgments — rightfully made — can be tempered with mercy if sympathy is shown, and if the doorway to reconciliation is left open.

The disciple of Jesus speaks and acts as one whose words and deeds shall be called to account in both this world, and in the world to come.  – Luther

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October 11
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“And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.” (1 Thessalonians 2:13, NIV)

When we are presented with an opportunity to obey God’s word, do we demur by looking at the messenger instead of the message?

In today’s scripture, the Christians in Thessalonica were commended by Paul because they obeyed the word of God as they heard it — even when it came through a corrupted human vessel (Paul).

God is continuously speaking: Through His creation; through His creatures; through our circumstances; through unlikely messengers.

As a disciple of Jesus, be discerning. Don’t embrace the words of the devil because it appears to you in robes; and don’t dismiss the word of God because it appears to you in rags. – Luther

REMINDER: Daily Encouragement will be on break tomorrow (Sunday). Have a great day in worship.  Lord willing, see you again on Monday.

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