A Servants Heart (part 4)

This week I have been blogging about having the heart of a servant. Serving is one of the greatest opportunities we have in this life. Serving gives glory to God, blesses others, and blesses us, which is why Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 2:35).” It is our privilege and duty as children of God to “serve one another in love (Galatians 5:13), and it’s very important that we have a good attitude, when we serve others. First of all, when we serve, we are serving the Lord Himself, and He deserves our best effort. In Ephesians 6:7 Paul reminds us, “Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men.” God has not called any of His children to be lukewarm or half hearted, so put your best foot forward, because you are serving the Lord. Secondly, the condition of our heart is important to God. 1 Samuel 16:7 says, “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” If we complete acts of service with a bad attitude or if we have the wrong heart about it, God knows that we aren’t being sincere. Let’s get real with the Lord and make sure that our heart is in the right place when we are serving, or else we might as well not do it. Lastly, rely on God’s strength to get the job done. 1 Peter 4:11 encourages us by saying, “If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.” Being a servant of the Lord can be difficult work sometimes, on many different levels. Trust in the Spirit of the Lord, because it is by Him that we are able to achieve good things for God’s Kingdom.

Jesus will always be our best example of what it means to be a true servant. Jesus’ entire life was lived as a sacrificial servant to God and others. He served by preaching, teaching, healing, loving the unloved and unlovable, restoring sight to the blind, feeding the multitudes, comforting those who were hurting, and forgiving people who had sinned, just to name a few. One story in the Bible that sticks out to me is in John 13 when Jesus washes the feet of His disciples. This story is a beautiful example of what it means to be a servant. This is a moment where Jesus shows His disciples “the full extent of his love (John 13:1).” After Jesus washes their feet He asks them, "Do you understand what I have done for you (John 13:12)?” Jesus goes on to say, "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet (John 13:13-14).” Jesus was showing His disciples His love and humility, and He was showing them that they needed to serve each other in this same way. God expects this of us, as well. Jesus said, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them (John 13:15-17).”

Philippians 2 shows us how to be a good servant. Philippians 2:3-4 says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” We need to consider the needs of others before we consider our own needs and be selfless in our actions. This is not always an easy thing to do, especially if we have busy lives, demanding jobs, money problems, marriages, children, mortgages, and on and on. It can be easy to overlook the need of a family member, co-worker, or friend, when we are consumed with our own life or our own problems. This is why we need to open our eyes and be attentive to what is going on around us and to the needs of others. People need Jesus’ love, and you may be the only person in someone’s life that is able to provide this. Philippians 2:5 reminds us, also, that our attitude “should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.” We need to follow His example. Jesus was focused on the needs of others. He was consumed with doing the will of God and pleasing Our Father. Jesus was the perfect example of a humble servant. Of course, none of us will ever be able to live a perfect and sinless life, but we can allow God to renew our hearts and minds and work in and through us. Jesus took on the nature of a servant and humbled Himself in obedience to God, and we should too, to the best of our ability (Philippians 2:6-8).

All of us can use the gifts and talents that God has given us, in order to serve Him and others. If you’re wondering what your gifts and talents are, then take some time to pray about it, ask others, and seek God’s voice. In time, it will be revealed to you. You can use your gifts and talents inside and outside of the church. All you have to do is follow God’s lead. Though the body of Christ is large, every member of the body is extremely important. God wants to use you, you are precious and valuable to Him, and He created you for a specific plan and purpose! Romans 12:4-6 says, “Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us.” All of us have a different call on our lives, but God will use all of us to work together to fulfill His will and plan. You are not here by mistake. 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 says, “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men.” You might have the gift of healing, teaching, prophecy, or speaking in tongues. You may have the talent of solving problems, public speaking, singing, or preaching. Whatever it may be, remain open minded to how the Lord may use all that you have to offer.

A Servants Heart (part 3)

Possessing a servant’s heart is the mark of a true follower of Jesus Christ. Serving others gives God glory, and it is a blessing in so many ways. Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35).” When we give of ourselves to others, we are blessed in the process, which is a gift of God. Service is a blessing, but it is also our duty as Christians. As believers we have been called to “serve one another in love (Galatians 5:13).” Therefore, we need to have a good attitude when we serve.

The condition of our heart is what matters most to God. “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).” Most importantly, when we serve, we are not only serving others, we are serving Jesus Christ. God deserves our whole hearted effort. When you serve, do it “wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men (Ephesians 6:7).” The Lord does not want lukewarm, half hearted followers. He desires genuine women and men of God who are on fire for Him!

When we serve, we shouldn’t complain or argue. Although it may be difficult sometimes, God never said that what we do for Him will be easy. As a matter of fact, if you’re not being challenged during your spiritual journey, then you may want to ask yourself why. God wants us to grow in Him. Philippians 2:14-15, instructs, “Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe.”

Put your best foot forward for the Lord and shine His beautiful Light to the world! Don’t trust your own strength when you step out to serve God and others. “If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ (1 Peter 4:11).” It is not by our own might or power, but by the Spirit of God that we are able to accomplish anything good. Make time to fellowship with the Lord and lean on Him, as opposed to leaning on your own understanding (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Jesus was, is and always will be the best example of what a true servant is. His entire life was dedicated to doing the will of God and serving others in love. We can see His example shine as we turn the pages of the New Testament. Jesus healed the sick, restored sight to the blind, fed the multitudes, and washed the feet of His disciples. He is the perfect, divine role model, and we should follow His lead. Philippians 2 gives us excellent guidance on how to be a better servant of the Lord, as well. It tells us to be humble, consider others before we consider ourselves, have the same attitude as Jesus, be obedient to God’s will, work out our salvation with fear and trembling, and remember that it is God who is working in and through us (Philippians 2:5-13).

You know that you should be a servant for God, and you know how to be a servant through Biblical examples, but you may be wondering where you should serve. The Bible tells us that we are all given gifts and talents. Take a look within yourself, ask the Lord, and ask others, in order to realize what your gifts and talents are. Once you discover more about your gifts and talents, you will be able to use them to serve God and others. For example, if you have been given the gift of teaching, then you would probably do well serving as a teacher inside or outside of the church. You may have been given the gift of healing, and in that case you would probably be great in the medical community or in ministry. Whatever the Lord has blessed you with, you can use it for His glory and to fulfill the call He has placed on your life.

When we serve others with what God has blessed us with, then we may be rewarded in this life, but we will definitely be rewarded in Heaven. Serving within your church is wonderful, but keep an open mind. The world needs Jesus, and God needs you to be His hands and feet. You never know if an act of service you give to someone who is unsaved may lead them to salvation. Also, don’t think that you have to travel to a third world country to serve. God may call you to witness to people in your family, neighborhood or community. Just be open to the Lord, and He will reveal to you how He wants to use you.

A Servant's Heart (part 2)

The act of service is a privilege and an important responsibility that God has given us. It is an honor to be able to serve God and others, while we are living on this earth, as well as a blessing. When we have a servant’s heart, not only will we give God glory, we will be blessed when we bless others. Jesus pointed out this truth when He said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35).” When we serve others by giving them our love, time, effort, energy, work, help, and so on, something special happens.

It is our duty as women and men of God to “serve one another in love (Galatians 5:13).” While God may place a different call on each of our lives, there is “one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all (Ephesians 4:4-6),” and we need to follow and obey His commands and guidance. Whether we choose to serve others on the mission field, in our church, at home, or in our community, then we need to take our responsibility to heart and do so with love. Mother Teresa was quoted as saying, “It is not how much you do, but how much love you put into the doing that matters.”

When we choose to serve, we should always remember that it is not just people that we are serving. We are serving Jesus Christ! “Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men (Ephesians 6:7).” We cannot be half hearted or lukewarm in our efforts, if we want to be a good servant of the Lord. It’s important to have a good attitude and a pure heart, while we are serving, because the condition of our heart is what truly matters to God. “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).”

When we serve God the right way, then we please Him, and if you have given your life fully to the Lord, then the desire of your heart will be to please Him. Our attitude and the condition of our heart matters to God, and if we pursue His righteousness and walk in what He has for us, then we will carry out His will. Romans 14:17-18 says, “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men.” The importance of our attitude and the condition of our heart is further emphasized in Philippians 2:14-15, which instructs, “Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe.”

1 Peter 4:11 encourages us to find our strength in the Lord, when we serve. It says, “If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.” Not everything that we do for God and others is going to be easy. As a matter of fact, it is not uncommon to feel emotionally, mentally and physically tired from serving. However, if we take care of ourselves and allow God’s Spirit to strengthen us, then we can accomplish anything in Christ.

The best example of a servant was Jesus Himself, and Philippians 2 gives us guidance on how to be a better servant. Philippians 2:3-4 tells us that we should be selfless and humble, and consider others before we think of ourselves. Philippians 2:5-8 says that our attitude “should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death — even death on a cross!”

Philippians 2 goes on to urge us to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling, and reminds us that it is God who works in us, in order to fulfill His purpose (Philippians 2:12-13). We are special and valuable to God and to the fulfillment of His plan now and for eternity. If we want to possess the heart of a servant and fulfill God’s will, then we should look to Jesus’ example as what a servant truly is.

A Servant's Heart

Albert Einstein, one of the greatest thinkers of the modern age said, “Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile." Deep thinker, poet and woman of insight, Helen Keller said, “Happiness cannot come from without. It must come from within. It is not what we see and touch or that which others do for us which makes us happy; it is that which we think and feel and do, first for the other fellow and then for ourselves.” Christian leader Mother Teresa said, “Good works are links that form a chain of love.”

One of the greatest opportunities we have in this life is the opportunity to serve. Possessing the heart of a servant doesn’t only benefit others. Possessing the heart of a servant will also benefit you, and most importantly, it gives glory to God. In Acts 20:35 Jesus was quoted as saying, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” There is something special that happens when we serve. We are blessed, when we choose to bless.

As Christian’s, it is our duty to live our lives as servants. Galatians 5:13 says, “You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love.” The call on one person’s life will vary from the call on another person’s life, however, the One doing the calling is the same. In Ephesians 4:4-6, Paul says, “There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” We need to obey and follow God by serving others in love.

When we think of service, we should first keep in mind that we are not only serving others. We are serving Jesus Christ. In Ephesians 6:7 Paul reminds us, “Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men.” I have found that ministry is not only beautiful, fulfilling and exciting, but it can also be emotionally, mentally and physically strenuous. I have to admit that sometimes I feel tired, and my attitude towards serving can be less than enthusiastic. It is during these moments that God has reminded me that I am not only serving others, I am serving Him! It is an honor and a privilege to serve, and we should never forget that.

We have to remember that we have been given an important assignment and opportunity to serve the Lord and others, and it’s very important that we have a good attitude about it. If our heart is not in our service, then we might as well not do it, because the condition of our heart is what truly matters to God. “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7).” Being half hearted in service is unacceptable. God has not called us to be lukewarm or lazy.

When we serve with a good attitude and a pure heart, God will reward us, bless us, bless others, and we will be giving God glory! We serve God and others through our actions, as well as our character and our attitude. Romans 14:17-18 says, “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men.”

1 Peter 4:11 encourages us by saying, “If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.” If you are struggling when you serve at times, then ask God to provide you with the strength that you need to get the job done. It is not by our own might and power, but by His Spirit that we are able to fulfill God’s will and plan. You can’t do it alone, so remain in prayer and stay connected with other believers, in order to stay strong.

It is true that you don’t have to be a Christian to serve. As a matter of fact, there are many non-Christian groups that serve and help others. However, Psalm 127:1 says “Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain.” What good is our service to others, if we are not able to shine the light of Christ, give the glory to God, fulfill God’s will or share the Gospel with those that are unsaved? What reward will there be in the next life, if we don’t know Jesus? If we don’t have Christ in our hearts and lives, then how can we bear good fruit? The truth of that matter is that we can’t. In John 15:5 Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

If you have never accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, then please contact us at SoldierOfChrist_09@yahoo.com or by phone at 512-581-1114. We would love to talk to and pray with you.

Success (part 4)

This week I’ve been writing about success and the helpful steps we can all take, in order to be successful and fulfill the calling we have. While the world views success as what we achieve, how much money we make, what possessions we attain, or how attractive we are, the Bible tells us something different. While I personally believe that there is nothing wrong with enjoying the fruits of our labor and having nice things, the Bible urges us to reach for spiritual wealth. “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal (Matthew 6:19-20).” The world looks at material gain as the means to happiness, but true joy and peace can only come from having an intimate and personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

In order to have a genuinely successful life where we fulfill our true calling, we need to be willing to take certain steps to get there. We need to look through spiritual eyes, in order to remain on the right path. What steps do you need to take? First, give your life to Christ. This is the most important decision you will ever make. Only with Jesus can we be forgiven of our sins, have eternal life, and direct access to God. Second, truly follow Christ by obeying His commands. Believing in Jesus and following Him are two different things. Keep in mind that Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven (Matthew 7:21).” Third, open your heart and listen to God’s voice. It’s important that we realize that prayer is a two way street. God wants to talk to you and reveal His will and plan for your life. Next, take actions necessary to live the life that God is calling you to live, no matter what you have to do. This may be as easy as joining a prayer group or as difficult as traveling to a third world country. The important thing is that you get out of your comfort zone.

After we have made the decision to give our lives to Christ, have begun to follow Him, have tuned our ears to hear His voice, as well as taken actions to fulfill the call God has placed on our lives, we need support. Another important step in achieving success and fulfilling your calling is to get in community with other believers. In Genesis 2:18, God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone.” Even though all that He had created was good, He knew that Adam needed a partner in this life. Just like Adam, we need support, love, and fellowship. We were created to be in community with others. When we have people in our lives who are there for us, as we are there for them, then we are sharpened and grow, just as we help them to grow and be sharpened. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”

The first thing to do, in order to get in community with other believers is to find a church home where you can grow spiritually, serve, and be in fellowship. Research the church before you attend, and use the leading and guiding of the Holy Spirit, in order to determine what church becomes your home church. Make sure that the church you attend teaches Biblically sound doctrine. Ask yourselves important questions like, “Does the church believe that there is a heaven and a hell? Does the church believe that there is only one Way to God and salvation, which is through Jesus Christ (John 14:6)? Does the church believe that the Bible is the Word of God, written under divine inspiration? Does the church believe in the Holy Trinity? Does the church believe in the gifts of the Spirit?” There are so many question’s that you should ask, when you consider which church to join. Some denominations are very religious, but this is not what we should be looking for. Christianity is about having a personal relationship with God, not having a religion. Be careful that you don’t join a church that is legalistic or twists verses in the Bible, in order to keep people in bondage, and be careful that you don’t join a church where the gifts and power of God are limited (i.e. speaking in tongues, healing, authority in Christ, etc.). Beware that you aren’t being reeled in to new age/ false doctrine, as well. If any person or group is telling you that there are multiple way’s to God or that they have a new doctrine for you that will achieve enlightenment or that you yourself can work your way to heaven, run for the hills. This is what is known as a cult.

After you have found a church home, get involved. Use the gifts and talents that God has given you, in order to help others, serve others, and bring glory to God. When we get involved at our church home, not only will we experience community, but we will often begin to experience what God is calling us to do (if we haven’t already). Some people find their calling in volunteer ministry at their church, while others find their calling working on staff for their church. Some people branch out and become pastors for their church, while others branch out and start their own church where they are the senior pastor. Some people feel called to the mission field, while some feel called to do outreach in their city, state or country. Some people find their calling as a husband and father, wife and mother, Bible teacher, preacher, worship leader, or charity worker. There are so many beautiful areas of ministry, because Jesus is the Lord over all of them. Use your gifts and talents in your church home, and see what God reveals to you through your experiences. More than likely, God will ask you to do more than serve only within your church, but starting within those four walls is a great place to begin your journey.

After you have found a church home where you are able to get in community, other opportunities will arrive where you will be able to find and build godly relationships. Don’t forget that getting in community doesn’t happen only at church. You can join a Christian organization, volunteer for a charity, join a local group of godly men or women, become a part of a Bible study or start your own home group, or research Christian group’s and organization’s on the internet. Expand your horizons. Sometimes our lives get hectic or busy, but if you want to have quality relationships in your life, then you have to take the time to make them. Also, don’t forget the most important community of all, which is your family! Make quality time for your wife or husband, for your children, and for your extended family. Your family needs to be your top priority, after God. Don’t put anything before them. Our families need to be places of safety, encouragement, support, and love, and it is within them that we will grow and help others grow.

There are several steps that you can take, in order to be successful and fulfill your true calling. Give your life to Christ, truly follow Christ by obeying His commands, open your heart and listen to God’s voice, take actions necessary to live the life that God is calling you to live, and get in community. Remember to be patient and to enjoy every season of your life. Although you may be called somewhere specific, change is a natural part of life, so be willing to be flexible. If you find yourself stuck in a rut, not knowing what to do with your life, even though you have taken all of these steps, then take time out to fast and pray. Ask God to show you what His will and plan is for you. God has a plan for your life (Jeremiah 29:11), no matter how young or old you are, and no matter what season you are in. Stay in faith! You are His child, and He will always take care of His own.

Success (part 3)

The world’s view of what it means to be successful is different than the view that many Christian’s have. While non-believers may focus on material possessions, worldly achievements and physical beauty, men and women of God are called to live their lives in a different way. While some believers may disagree, I personally don’t think that there is anything wrong with attainting luxurious things in this life and enjoying the fruits of your labor. However, these things should be far from our main focus in life because they will eventually pass away. The Bible urges us, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal (Matthew 6:19-20).” Our eyes need to be fixed on Jesus and God’s will, because only in Him will we be able to possess true joy, peace and contentment.

In order to have a successful life where we fulfill our true calling, we need to be willing to take certain steps to get there. First, you must make the decision to give your life to Christ. This is the most important decision that you will ever make. Jesus is the Way to forgiveness and eternal life, and only through Him are we able to have access to God (John 14:6). When we give our lives to Christ something beautiful takes place. We are immediately adopted into God’s family, where we become God’s sons and daughters (2 Corinthians 6:18). We become new creations in Him, and God gives us a clean slate and a fresh start.

After you give your life to Jesus, you must choose to follow Him. Believing in and following Jesus are not the same thing. Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven (Matthew 7:21).” In order to be a true follower of the Lord, you have to be willing to obey His commands and live your life for Him. When you do this, your life will change dramatically, without a doubt. It will not be an easy transition to make. I don’t say this to discourage you, but I believe it’s important to be honest about genuine conversion. You may have to let go of ungodly relationships, a job or career that doesn’t please the Lord, bad habits, old behaviors, and so on. You will be tempted to sin and you might be tempted to give up, but stand firm and stay in faith, because God is with you and will never give you more than you can handle (Corinthians 10:13).
Next, open your heart to hear God’s voice. This is an important step to take, if we want to have a successful life where we fulfill our true calling. Prayer is very important, but we have to keep in mind that prayer is a two way street. God wants to speak to us and reveal His will and plan to us. Not to mention that God wants to encourage us, comfort us, guide us, admonish us, and communicate with us. Take time each day to listen to God’s voice. Keep in mind, as well, that God sometimes speaks through others in our lives. Be open to advice from godly men and women in your life. They just might confirm something God has already told you. Also, if you want to know what direction you should take in your life, then I strongly recommend getting away from distractions and taking time out to fast and pray. Fasting has always opened me up to hearing God’s voice and knowing His will. Fasting also grows us up spiritually by humbling us and teaching us discipline. Don’t get me wrong, you can hear God’s voice anywhere, anytime, regardless if you are fasting or not, if you are open and willing to listen. However, if you want to open up more and be more connected to what God has to say, then consider fasting and praying for a period of time. You won’t regret it.

After you have given your life to Christ, chosen to follow Him, and opened your heart up to hearing God’s voice, the next step I recommend taking is to take action. It might sound simple, but sometimes stepping out in faith and taking actions to fulfill your calling in life can be hard and uncomfortable. What is God leading you to do? Where is God leading you to go? Maybe you are only making minor changes, or maybe you are making drastic changes, in order to fulfill God’s will and plan. Either way, take action! Make sure that you get outside of your comfort zone. Life with passion and purpose, and allow God to set you on fire for Him. In our walk with the Lord, we will always need to take action and step out in faith, as seasons in our lives come and go. What do you need to do in this season? It could be as simple as joining a church, getting involved in a Bible study, or making new, godly friends, or it could be as difficult as quitting your current job, getting out of a bad relationship, or traveling to a third world country? Whatever your situation is, take action and have faith!

As I mentioned in yesterday’s blog, I felt in my heart that there was more to life than the job and the career that I had. I wanted to go deeper, and I knew that God wanted me to go deeper, because He had placed a special call on my life. After walking away from my job and choosing to use my career as a singer solely for God’s glory in the church, God moved me into a blessed season in my life where I met the man who is now my husband. During this time, God placed it on both of our hearts to move to Austin, Texas. Although neither of us knew why God was calling us to Austin, we stepped out in faith to follow His leading. Soon after we got married, we felt God calling us to mission work, where we took action by stepping out in faith once again. Recently we began our own local outreach ministry, and both of us serve in several areas of ministry at our church. Little did I know that I would one day be in full time ministry, living my life on fire for Jesus, but I cannot thank God enough for what He has done! If we had not moved to Austin we would not live in the beautiful hill country, we would not have met the people that we have met, we would not have joined the wonderful church where we serve, and we may not have been able to undertake other assignments and responsibilities that God has given us. Following God’s will and plan for your life will not only bring Him glory, it will bring you joy, peace, and contentment, and that is worth more than a fancy house, expensive clothes, or a luxury vehicle, isn’t it?

There are several steps that you can take, in order to be successful and fulfill your true calling. First, give your life to Christ. Second, truly follow Christ by obeying His commands. Third, open your heart and listen to God’s voice. Next, take actions necessary to live the life that God is calling you to live, no matter what you have to do. Taking these steps will help you to get on the path of your true calling. Continue reading tomorrow, in order to discover what else you can do, in order to be successful and fulfill your true calling.

Success (part 2)

The world’s view of success is often tainted and twisted, coercing people to chase after shallow and material possessions. While there is nothing wrong with having things like a nice home or a luxury vehicle, no one will ever be truly content without God in their lives. Non-spiritual gain does not fulfill the deep desires of the soul. The joy of the Lord is what gives us supernatural strength amidst life’s challenges (Nehemiah 8:10), and only Jesus can bring us a true peace that surpasses our circumstances (Philippians 4:7). Riches received on earth are futile, as well as exterior beauty, as both are fleeting. This is why the Bible urges, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal (Matthew 6:19-20).”

In Christ we are able to take the steps necessary to have a genuinely successful life, where we fulfill our true calling. First, you must make the decision to give your life to Christ. In Him we are granted forgiveness for our sins, guaranteed eternal life (John 3:16), and allowed access to God (John 14:6). Once you have made the decision to give your life to Christ, you are adopted into God’s family. In 2 Corinthians 6:18 the Lord says, "I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters." Despite what you may have been told growing up or from certain religious denominations, God is not mad at you. He loves us deeply, with an everlasting love that draws us to Him (Jeremiah 31:3), and we are precious and valuable in His sight. He is a Holy God who hates sin and cannot be in its presence, but once we give our lives to Christ, we become a new creation in Him. Our old lives are gone, as God gives us a clean slate.

The second step you need to take, after you give your life to Christ, is to follow the Him. Jesus said, “many are invited, but few are chosen (Matthew 22:14).” Anyone can say that they believe in and love Jesus, but only a few truly follow Him. Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven (Matthew 7:21).” Accepting Jesus into your heart and life is only the beginning. Following Him takes faith, obedience, trust, discipline, and courage. If you are committed to following Christ, then your life will change. Often times, the changes that take place in our lives when we follow Jesus are dramatic. You may have to make difficult decisions like letting go of ungodly relationships, quitting a job or a career that doesn’t glorify God, or give up ungodly habits and behaviors. Being a Christian is not always easy, but it is definitely worth it. When you are tempted to sin or give up walking with the Lord, stand firm and hang in there. God will never give you more than you can handle (1 Corinthians 10:13). Fellowship with God daily by reading His Word, praying, worshiping Him, attending church and growing in your walk with Him.

After you give your life to Christ and begin to follow Him, take the next step to being successful and fulfilling your true calling. What’s the next step? Open your heart and prepare it to listen to God’s voice. Prayer is a two way street. While God wants to hear and answer our prayers, He also wants to speak to us. The way to discover God’s will and plan for your life is to be open to His voice. Make time to go before the Lord and hear what He has to say to you. Be sure to keep in mind that God will sometimes use others to speak to you, as well. Be open to hearing what other godly men or women say to you. Sometimes what someone else speaks in to your life will be a confirmation of what God has already revealed to you. I strongly recommend getting away from the distractions in your life and taking time to fast and pray. When you focus solely on time with God and hearing His voice, you will hear Him clearly. How amazing and powerful that Christian’s are able to hear the voice of the Creator of the Universe! When you take time to think about that, it can really blow your mind. So take the next step to successfully fulfilling and pursuing your true calling by listening to God’s voice and following where He leads you! He has a plan for your life (Jeremiah 29:11), and He doesn’t want you to guess or wonder what it is. He wants to reveal His plan to you!

When I was a newly born again woman I wanted to know what direction God wanted me to take. I knew that He had given me gifts and talents, but I wanted to live my life by using my gifts and talents for His glory, and following the true calling He had for me. I followed the Holy Spirit inside of me and the best decision that I made was walking away from a job and a career that I enjoyed. That may sound odd, but I knew there was more to life than having a job as an Executive Assistant and Fashion Coordinator, and pursuing a career as an actress and singer. I was on fire for Jesus, I wanted to go deeper, and I knew that God also wanted me to. Although I had spent my entire life entertaining, I knew God had placed a special call on my life. Right after I quit my job, I went away for a week and fasted. I took this time to pray and listen intently to God. He encouraged me, comforted me, strengthened me, and gave me guidance, as well as told me about beautiful blessings that were in store for me. It was one of the most amazing and sacred experiences of my entire life. God took my life in an unexpected and wonderful direction. I met and married my husband, moved to a new city and joined a great church. Today I use my talent of singing for His glory at my church, and I am able to use my gifts for His glory, as well. I am in full time ministry, as a co-founder of an outreach ministry with my husband, servant in various areas of ministry at my church, and missionary. I know that I am living out the call that God has placed on my life. I never imagined my life would go in this direction, but I am so thankful to God that He has made it possible. The world may not think my life is very glamorous, but I am content, joyful and at peace, knowing that I am living out my true calling. I hope my story encourages and inspires you to be all that God has called you to be!

There are several steps that you can take, in order to be successful and fulfill your true calling. First, give your life to Christ. Second, truly follow Christ by obeying His commands and being surrendered to God. Next, open your heart, listen to God’s voice, and follow where He leads you. There is more that you can do, in order to ensure that you are successful and fulfilling your calling in life, so continue reading the blog’s for this week.