Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5: 1-2
As Christians we have an awesome responsibility to demonstrate Jesus to everyone we meet. Even when our home is in an uproar and we are experiencing a very stressful and challenging day, we are still responsible to show Jesus to everyone we meet. This can be a very tall order.
Bobby and I have been pastoring for almost thirty years. Admittingly there have been some experiences that didn't encourage me to show Jesus to those I was dealing with at the time. But God clearly instructs us in His Word to be imitators of God. Even when people hurt us and do things to hurt are families, God expects us to be imitators of Him. Very early in our ministry I can tell you that I did not fulfill this command. Pastor's and their families deal with so much hurt, frustration and disappointment, and sometimes it is difficult to just "get over it" and go on. God has helped me so much over the years to not become bitter and angry.
I am thankful today for a God who understands our heart and listens to our cries in the middle of the night.
I am thankful for a God who instills Godly wisdom when we ask for it.
I am thankful for a God who provides protection and a hedge around our families.
I am thankful for all my experiences even when we were in the dark valleys in ministry. We grow spiritually in those valleys. God uses those experiences to help someone else we will meet along this life journey.
I am thankful for the Internet and how God has guided me in using this blog as a part of my ministry.
I want to show everyone I meet the character of Jesus Christ. Through my actions and my words I pray that all people will see Jesus in my life. We are just like plastic storage containers that are being filled each and every day to overflowing with the Spirit of Jesus. We can demonstrate God's character everywhere we go and become a blessing to others if we choose.
Visit Iris at Sting My Heart to read the other posts for TT.
Blessings and hugs to you today as you show everyone Jesus in you!
Thanks so much for visiting my blog today! I just had a conversation with a friend, who is also a pastor's wife (we served together at our last church), and we discussed this very thing. She is really struggling with letting go of criticism....I am going to send her to your blog! Thanks for sharing this.
ReplyDeleteGreat TT post and I echo what you say about wanting others to see Christ in me. It is a choice we must make each day. Thanks for sharing your grateful heart with us. -Laurie
ReplyDeleteWhat a great thankful post! I love the New LOOK on your blog!
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