Addison's Walk 2023
The Scripture:
"To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by his power, so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ." - 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12 ESV
A Reflection:
Salvation is a gift from God; we do not earn or deserve it. The Father draws us to Jesus through the Holy Spirit and the Word of God, opening our hearts to believe the gospel. We make a genuine choice—not salvation by works—when we repent and trust Jesus as the Lord of our lives.
Regeneration is the beginning of our spiritual journey. Through faith, God saves us and justifies us.
I often hear that "God has a wonderful plan for our lives," and indeed, He does. His plan and purpose for us are to glorify Jesus. He gives us gifts and assignments to advance His kingdom and - to edify His Church,
While how-to books can be helpful, spiritual practices alone cannot equip us for ministry without God's power. We desperately need His presence. God created us for good works. Although we may resolve to do good, true spiritual transformation occurs when we live in union with Him.
He has given us spiritual practices to draw near to Him. Prayer, Bible study, fasting, fellowship, meditation, service, and contemplation are essential for spiritual growth. The key is to keep Jesus at the center of these practices.
We go astray when we focus on spiritual disciplines more than on God's abiding presence. With the abundance of how-to books available, it's easy to become overly focused on spiritual disciplines or the latest techniques we have read about.
God’s power enables us to live life to the fullest when we understand that we can achieve nothing of eternal value without His presence. We are empowered by His presence.
**A Prayer:**
Father, make us worthy of Your calling. May our resolve to do good be accomplished by Your power, and may Jesus be glorified through our actions.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
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