Taking Care of Yourself and of Others

Have you ever heard or said or thought ‘whatever happened to…’? We know of friends whom we hadn’t heard from in a while and in today’s Social society…we can ‘look them up’. And sometimes we find that there’s a complete change in that person – not for the good too when it comes to a relationship and testimony for the LORD.

This hurts our hearts. We wonder just how they could stray from all we knew they held precious and true in their lives. Then I heard something the other day to make me think. This could happen to anyone…A change in a devotion to the LORD, to family, to work, to anything we hold valuable typically doesn’t happen overnight. It happens through a slow drip.

Slowly, people can let situations and people affect their devotion and resolve to live right and well for the LORD. Influence of Society can also affect hearts and minds. It’s a slow drip of not taking care of the daily time spent with God. Letting life and busyness fill our hearts and minds.

There’s space for so much in our lives – yet, if we look hard enough – are we filling it with the most important things – or allowing thousands of little things to occupy our minds and time.

A Slow Drip

This can change outlooks and attitudes. We can allow these things to chip away at our spirit and we can become disenchanted, tired and loose our passion.

Sometimes seeing others whom we believe to be solid in their faith act, say or do something we believe to be completely wrong – can affect our spirits.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6

I remember someone very  dear to me when I was young who once he became saved was a changed man. He read the Bible, attended church, looked forward to church and even began to teach Sunday School. Then, someone at the church criticized him for a fault in his life. He began to miss church and to miss time with God…Pride took over and disappointment.

We have to be aware of how little things we neglect, or little things that we allow that we shouldn’t or little things that affect our heart and mind can be like a slow drip…and drive our hearts and minds from God.

‘We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain,’ Hebrews 6:19

Don’t let this happen to you! Don’t let the cares of this world, work, family, friends, health, finances or anything become too big and too important in your life. Don’t be drawn away by the pretty things of this world that don’t have any redeeming value.

Remember, it can happen slowly to anyone if they allow it…I do believe we know. If our hearts and minds are filled with the trivial things of this world and we don’t take the time for the most important – God – I believe we know. I also believe we can deceive ourselves to think, ‘I’m o.k. This can’t or won’t affect me.’ But a little here a little there…that slow drip can completely draw people away.

‘The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.‘ II Peter 3:9

How to Avoid the Slow Drip

First, realize we are held by the grace of God. He completely saved us and wishes for us to grow. He will allow us to make decisions, but will prompt our hearts to do right. Realize too – the value of time spent with Him and with fellow believers.

Be honest with yourself and with God

He already knows. He is already there willing and ready to wait for you…

Remind Yourself of Just What God Has Done for YOU

Remember how it felt to realize that God loved you – that Jesus paid the price for your sins and how you felt when you accepted the gift of Salvation.

Keep Your Heart, Mind, Eyes and Hands Clean

We have liberty as Christians in this world, but we also do battle with the world and with our flesh. We have to remember that we have to take care of what might draw us away. Guard your heart.

Pray – Talk to God – Praise Him

Ask for God’s guidance in all things – He wishes you to continue to reflect His Spirit and Love – He wishes you to grow deeply in your knowledge of Him…talk to Him –

Read God’s Word

The simplest answer is always the best – pray and read…then live, live for Him. Live for others…keep track of your actions, thoughts and priorities. Make sure the main thing (relationship with God) remains the main thing.

What a joy! What a gift. GOD LOVES US! He wishes to have a deep relationship with us – but He gives us the choice daily to choose Him.

Think about all of the things that call upon your attention. Be aware of the influence of worldly thinking – don’t let these things creep into your heart and mind – we are to be a part of this world to love those God loves – but, we are also to be separate – so that we can be effective and live effectively for Him. Remember just how precious you are to Him – find joy in knowing you are important in God’s sight and then – continually make Him important in your life.