Abandon, Success and Guide

My word this year is growth. Not accidental, but intentional. These thoughts are guided by a devotional. In order to grow, (Things to Abandon for Spiritual Growth, Brian Price)

• I must abandon competition. I am not running someone else’s race or against someone else.
• I must abandon materialism. I must acknowledge God as the source of all I have and work to manage what he has given me well.
• I must abandon drama. I can’t be busy tearing others down while God is trying to build me up. I need to take my focus off the drama and focus on who I am and what my purpose is.
• I need to abandon jealousy. God blesses each person with different things. He blesses with things to accomplish His will, according to His plan or purpose for them. It is not about favor but about function.
• I need to abandon gossip. My words should encourage and lift up others, not tear them down.
• I need to abandon negative thoughts. I need to focus on my thoughts on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent and praiseworthy.
• I must abandon unrighteous anger. My anger should end in justice, not revenge.
• I need to abandon violence. Although I may not be physically violent, I am at times violent with my words. This also must be abandoned.
• I must abandon fear of man. This is more of the fear of rejection of man for me. I have to decide if obedience is more important than concerned that I might be rejected by man. God wants my obedience.
• I must abandon laziness. I am to take the time to rest, but I also need to be productive with the rest of my time.

Jesus’ style success:

5 ways God guides

1. Commanding Scripture
2. Compelling Spirit
3. Common Sense
4. Counsel of Servants
5. Circumstantial signs

Things to hold on to in difficult times

• Act right
• Tell the truth
• Don’t gossip
• Do not hurt your neighbor
• Keep your word
• Be generous
• Be honest

How do you respond to suffering?

• Have faith
• Don’t cause unnecessary offense
• Humble Yourself
• Be Radical