Ephesians and Romans

I have been searching for direction, direction for next year and the rest of my life. In the past I have tried to create my own path. I have planned things so far in advance that haven't always turned out as I have hoped. So this time, while I searched for direction, I turned to my heavenly father. I first read the book of Ephesians.

I took little Magglet down to the beach and laid a blanket in the sand. I prayed a prayer for the lord to open my heart and let me receive his direction. And then I read every verse 2 to 3 times and highlighted anything that stood out to me. And once verse specifically captured my attention. "Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.-Ephesians 4:2" There are so many directions in this and I have to practice every one. Next year, when I feel alone or distraught I need to remember to stay positive and spread the Lord's love because there will be at least 1,000 people that feel the same way. I have to be humble and gentle. Accepting of other's views. Patient with people who drive me nuts and remember that the Lord created them to be that way. Most importantly I have to share his overwhelming love.

After finishing Ephesians I headed home to run some errands. Later that evening I delved into Romans.  Paul wrote this elaborate letter to the Romans. He felt so blessed to have the opportunity to share the Lord's message to them. It was a gift from the Lord and he was proud to share the Good News. He boldly stated to the masses, "For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. -Romans 1:16" Why do I fear sharing the message of my lord, Jesus Christ? Paul was able to proudly proclaim his faith. Next year I will have to be could and actually rightfully live out my faith. 

I always tend to focus my faults and my wrong doing's. "Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? -Romans 2:4" I must remember the Lord's grace and tolerance. His love covers a multitude of sin and I must learn to forgive myself and move on. "We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. -Romans 3:22" I am forgiven of my sins because of the Lord's ultimate sacrifice and I am now clean and anew because of his gracious gift. 

Next year I must remember will not be easy. I will be pushed and put through many trails and tribulations but it will build character and strengthen my hope. "And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment.-Romans 5:4-5" This is the Lord's promise. But I have a choice... "Don’t you realize that you become a slave of whatever you choose to obey. -Romans 6:16" I have to make a concuss effort to follow him. I will not get distracted by societies standards, I will continue to follow the Lord's path. 

That is how I see it today. 

Take some time to think about it too,

All-i Rose