Marusa Mason Transparency In Christ

When we are depressed we can become selfish and close our hearts to those around us who may be crying out for help. Resulting in failure to help someone in need. Scripture references: 1 John 3v16-18, Proverbs 31v20 and 22v9.

Sadly, even though much evidence surrounds us, universal and personal, we need another sign, some more proof before we believe that Jesus is the bread of life. Scripture references: John 6v25-37, James 2v19.

Do you trust in your own strength? When the sea is surging around you and all seems hopeless, allow Christ to lift you up onto a high place. He is our Rescuer and Strength. Habakkuk 1v11 and 3 v17-19, Jeremiah 31v3, Psalm 18v32-33, Psalm 27v5.

Are you looking for signs and wonders or waiting for disaster to strike before you cry out to Jesus Christ and acknowledge his saving grace? Scripture references: John 4 v46-54, John 3v16, Psalm 121.

When we start the day in a dark place let's immediately go to Jesus in prayer, giving it all to him and spend time in the word, before we start doing everything in our own strength. Scripture references: John 4 v6-15, Revelation 21 v6, Isaiah 44 v3, Psalm 1 v3.

Sometimes we need to step back to avoid unconstructive conflict. Or we can choose to engage. Let's be sure to honour God in the words we use and the choices we make. By walking closely with him through the word and through prayer we become more and more receptive to his prompting. Scripture references: Psalm 121, Luke 12 v11-12, Psalm 119 v129-136.

God sees you, he knows your suffering and is aware of your fears. He wants you to draw near to him. He has died for you, he will not forsake you now. John 1 v45-48, Isaiah 55 v6-7, Psalm 23v4, James 4v8.

Are you trembling today because you are unsure about tomorrow? Seek first Christ's kingdom thereby putting all things into perspective. Scripture references: Matthew 6 v19-21 and v25-34, Isaiah 26 v3.

Building a relationship with Christ takes commitment, time and obedience but yields joy and direction in our lives. Scripture references: Psalm 86v6, John 15v11.

Sometimes it's easy to wake up and praise God, sometimes it isn't. When we find ourselves in that dark place it takes an effort to pull ourselves out and turn our faces to Jesus. Reaching out to those around us helps too. God remains steadfast, faithful and loving, regardless of our feelings or circumstances. Scripture references: Isaiah 61:10, Psalm 30.

If God asked you to choose absolutely anything and it would be given to you, what would you choose? Scripture references: Isaiah 60v18-20, 1 Kings 3v4-12.

A word of caution with regard to following various spiritual leaders online. Some highly regarded and well known preachers speak blasphemy and dilute the truth. They are wolves in sheep's clothing in the church. Always refer back to the bible to find the truth and worship Christ alone. Scripture references: Isaiah 56v10-11, Matthew 7v15-23, John 14v6.

The beautiful moment when Jesus fills the disciple's net with abundance after a night of emptiness. He allows Peter to absolve himself through declarations of love. He feeds us, he loves us, our faithful, caring friend. Scripture references: John 20, Mat 4v4, Psalm 103v12.

During Covid-19, people are interpreting and applying the lockdown and social distancing rules differently. Let's be cautious not to judge and criticize. The enemy loves conflict and destruction, especially in our close relationships. Let's be loving peacemakers, and leave the judging up to God. Scripture references: Isaiah 54v10, Matthew 22v18-21.

Are you speaking negativity and fear, or are you praying for healing and guidance? We need to remember that God has appointed the leadership in this land and we are called to pray for them. As hard as it is, friends, let's stop complaining and start praying. Scripture references: Psalm 5v1-3, 1 Timothy 2v1-4, Isaiah 55v8-9.

Let's remove the blinkers and unstop our ears. Lest we become caught up in the flood of negativity and fear that surrounds us. Keeping our eyes fixed on the word and in prayer asking for wisdom and discernment. Psalm 24v4 speaks of clean hands and a pure heart. We are not clean by our own doing, but through faith and trust in Christ. Scripture references: Psalm 24, John14v6.

Let's take a look at how God has worked in our past. Remember with gratitude those spiritual markers. Pray for recall and write them down. This will help us face the present and the future with a confident hope, as we take note of God's miraculous work in our lives. Scripture reference: Isaiah 51v9-11.

Where does our hope truly lie? Your most hopeless place might just be where you will discover true hope. Let's place our trust in the unseen, the eternal, which will not fade. Listen to the still, quiet voice of the one who has the power and the will to save you. Scripture references: Romans 5v1-6. Matthew 19v24.

A look at God's character, emphasizing righteousness and Lordship. Salvation and righteousness walk hand in hand; disaster is sometimes for our own good. Turn to him, and receive mercy.

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Taking a brief look at trusting and resting in God's grace.