Renewal, Putting God First

During the Christmas season, most of us were reminded not to go overboard or overspend; but put God first; give to the needy; and to cherish the true “reason for the season.” I was caught in the moment. Not a very good example of what God wants from us. I had some major humbling to do.  I had to first humble myself to God, confess and ask for forgiveness in my idle endeavors and then move forward. Matthew 32"Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven. 33But whoever disowns me before men, I will disown him before my Father in heaven.

This was very troubling for me as the holiday was approaching fast. I was so excited to be able to celebrate Jesus’ birth once again. But somehow, I missed the message. I was so eager to enjoy holiday decorations, parties, etc. But in doing so, I did not place Jesus Christ as my Center! What is even more unsettling is that I was looking in all the wrong places to get the true Christmas Spirit: money frustrations, holiday entertainment, exasperating attempts to the find the “fun” holiday music on the radio instead of listening to true Christian music, car-bumping from store to store in an attempt to conquer the Christmas list.

Yes, I was caught up in the world…no matter how much I detest the whole concept…it happened. I had even missed church service on Christmas. This is not right! How could I just let myself slip this way? Rom 12:2: Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

I’ve had to come to the Lord and ask for mercy and forgiveness! My guilt was unbearable, I tried to approach my reasoning with justification…but I truly believe that God simply closed the door. How dare I attempt to the walk in the light! I could not even face the Lord with my needs…I’ve actually felt that He did not want to be bothered. Other priorities in my life have become troublesome, I couldn’t see my way out… It felt like a block of cement had fallen on me; my family life was under stress.

I think, perhaps, God was letting me know that He loves me and has not turned His back on me, but it was definitely time for self reflection. Not just during the holidays, but all the time. What are my priorities? How often do we push our Lord in the background although we know that we MUST put Him FIRST - for our guidance, our instructions, and our blessings? The holidays were actually harder to get through this year. As I love giving to those (whether its food, hospitality, gifts), I also need to learn that true love is also expressed by simply honoring and serving our Lord Jesus Christ first and the blessings of giving and serving automatically follows - and without the hassles.

As we’ve approached and passed the New Year’s resolution (my opinion, resolutions are less permanent; easily defeating and often have shortcomings), I would like to approach the New Year with spiritual reconditioning; a day-by-day commitment, one day at a time! To commit myself to a closer relationship with God. To re-emphasize, reading my Bible daily, constant prayer and thanksgiving. One can become distant if there is no communication with God through His Word. I am often challenged with “day-to-day” scenarios that are often questioned this leads me back to reading His Word to find the answer. Also, reconditioning a stronger prayer life, remember, prayers are constant anytime, anywhere!!!! For me, there is no formality in prayer, but be in direct communication without any interference from the outside world (rushed or preoccupied). Give honor and praise to God just for being God. Open your heart, confess and ask for forgiveness for your sins in thought, words, action and weaknesses, and request your prayer petition and close your prayer with thanksgiving and gratitude. This will also help us in our prayers for others!

Although, by the Grace of God, our sins are covered, the best commitment in self renewal is to acknowledge our weakness, wrongdoing or habits, accept the responsibility, ask for forgiveness…and give it to the Lord…Daily! We simply cannot do this on our own. Be in constant relationship with God in prayers; also have faith in God that no matter what; he will see you through. Psalms 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.

Lent begins February 17. Let us take this new beginning for reflection, repentance and renewal. Our style or method of worship may differ slightly, but we are all fighting for the same goal. Our God is a forgiving God. He loves us. He understands us and our weaknesses. He will see us through! Pray, Pray and Pray and you will not Stray!!!

Scripture: Jude 1 24To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— 25to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.