I love this example of Paul living a life that loved people well: “. . . I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable . . . I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God” (Acts 20:20,27).
Will we follow Paul’s example?
Likewise, we are given the instructions in the Great Commission to go and teach all that Jesus commanded (Matthew 28:19, 20).
Will we obey?
We must not pick and choose truths that are convenient.
Paul also testified, “… I did not prove disobedient to the heavenly vision, but kept declaring both to those of Damascus first, and also at Jerusalem and then throughout all the region of Judea, and even to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, performing deeds appropriate to repentance” (Acts 26:19-20).
True repentance will bear fruit. May we all bear fruit through a continually changed life, going deeper and deeper in relationship with Christ, looking more and more like Him each day. This change will come from daily time with the Father – seeking His Presence and His truth – and in keeping short accounts with Him, asking Him to search our hearts (click here for more) .
“Therefore bear fruit in keeping with repentance” Matthew 3:8.
Examine yourself.
“If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:8-9
“Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?” Romans 2:4
“‘Thus it is written, that the Christ would suffer and rise again from the dead the third day, and that repentance for forgiveness of sins would be proclaimed in His name to all the nations’” Luke 24:46-47
Such good news!
Thank You, Lord, for Your beautiful kindness to us – to not ever leave us as we are. Keep growing us more and more into Your image, we pray. In the name of the Lord Jesus. Amen.
Friend, part of loving people well is speaking the truth.
-Are you biblically loving people well?
-Who in your life needs to hear the life-giving, life-saving truth today?
-Will you depend upon the leading of the Holy Spirit and His timing and ask for opportunities to speak up in boldness?
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