Our choice is to stick together!
Philippians 4:1-9 (NIV)Closing Appeal for Steadfastness and Unity
Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!
2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Final Exhortations
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice.And the God of peace will be with you.
THINGS ARE GOING TO CHANGE ~
Somethings will be happy changes and some harder changes
Life has a way of changing us from the inside out. Holding fast the word of God and allow ourselves to believe bigger than ever and hold on tight to our faith. Learning that we can not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, yes every situation, by prayer and petition. Living life with a thankful heart and a voice of praise.
The past two weeks, I have younger friends (30 years old or younger), dealing with the loss of loved ones. During any season of life, death is hard, but at the Christmas Season, it just brings it home a little more. I remember being 32 years old and my brother had cancer. The hospital called us early in the morning and we were opening Christmas gifts, a voice would say, "you need to come now to the hospital". My brother didn't have much time left and took a turn for the worse. He would enter Heaven that Christmas Day and our lives would be changed forever. He (Ronnie) was 37 years old.
Ronnie told us not to be sad, and to live each day as if it were our last but plan on tomorrow. A lot of wisdom he shared and his pain was about to be gone forever. Being 32 years old, I honestly didn't understand his peace. Things are going to change and give thanks to God. Hard to understanding the when of things in life, but God's plan continues to unfold for each of us. During the Christmas Season of buying things, I often find myself picking of a Raiders (Football) item for him. Then realizing he isn't here anymore. He stays alive in my heart and so many great memories. The greatest was his love for my kids. He was a really good uncle. I miss him and life continues on and now I tell my grandchildren about my only brother. I never had sisters, it was just him and I.
During this day of your life, give thanks for what you do have my friends. Count blessings and know that things can suddenly change. That change can be good for one, but hard for another. I don't know what you face today, but God is a promise keeper and helps us through all seasons of life. Let us turn to him through it all and share life with those we love. My prayers continue for you, your family and friends. Thank you for taking time to read this and plant hope inside your heart.
~ Sparkie
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