Tag Archives: obedience

“Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.”  (Hebrews 12:14, NIV)

Conventional wisdom is not God’s wisdom.

Conventional wisdom says, “Do unto others as others do unto you.”  God’s wisdom says, “Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.”

Conventional wisdom is earth-bound.  Follow it, and you’re only as good as the crowd.

Godly wisdom is heaven-bound.  Follow it, and you’re good for God.  Live it, and you will not only see as God sees; but you also will see God.

To be holy is to be as God is, and begins with seeking reconciliation with everyone – particularly enemies and foes; looking past the outward appearance to the heart; valuing the things of heaven over the things of earth; and redeeming time for eternity.  – Luther

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“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”  (2 Timothy 1:7, NIV)

Who doesn’t want power?

Who doesn’t want to be loved?

Who doesn’t want self-discipline?

God’s spirit within us provides the wherewithal to live confidently; to walk boldly; and to control the only thing in this world that we truly have a say about: Our own actions.

We release the power of the Holy Spirit, Who lives within us, through obedience to the Spirit’s leading.  Failure to obey the Spirit leads to the same unfruitful ends as failing to obey a road map, or a recipe.  – Luther

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“Do not stifle the Holy Spirit.”  (1 Thessalonians 5:19, NLT)

When we stifle the Holy Spirit, we are denying ourselves the very power we need to face the challenges of our days.

The Holy Spirit is wisdom, understanding, counsel, power, and knowledge.  (Isaiah 11:2)

The Holy Spirit is living and active.  When the Spirit urges you to move, do not stifle its impulses — move!  – Luther

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