There are people that we admire and people that we envy. Which people do we emulate? What kind of life are we building - a life to please others…or ourselves?
Just how do we determine the identity of a person? What criteria do we use - accomplishments…values…social group or status? Most of us evaluate others based on the standard we use for ourselves, but the shape of a person’s identity may take a lifetime to reveal.
At first glance, the rich and powerful seem to have the greatest influence on our society. But a closer investigation may reveal that it is a different kind of person that truly shapes who we are as a people.
When we find ourselves reflecting on all the good things we have, we have to acknowledge that we have been blessed. But when we begin to contemplate the source of those blessings, our hearts should truly be thankful.
To err is human. To repeat those mistakes is VERY human. Living a life that is consistent with our faith can be quite a challenge. The road from repentance to righteousness can be long and winding, and there are some days when it seems like we haven’t made any progress at all.
There are times when the situation demands that we speak out. But sometimes we don’t get the results we were aiming for. Do the words we speak align with what we are trying to accomplish? Does living our life for a purpose alter how we interact with others?
Many different kinds of people attend church, with various levels of investment in the ministry of Christ. How much of our self is God expecting us to offer?
The natural state of the world can seem hostile to a person who lives by faith. The Grace that God offers to those who believe can be quite the lifeline. But what does God expect us to accomplish with His Grace?
There are days on the calendar that we look forward to with anticipation. Then there are other days that just aren’t as pleasant. How does our perspective change the experience?
