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Showing posts with label Philippians 4:5. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Philippians 4:5. Show all posts

Monday, October 12, 2020

Be Considerate


“Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do.” (Philippians 4:5 NLT)

I run daily through our neighborhood. While most of our streets are clean, there is one section where someone throws empty cans as they drive by. I assume it is the same person who litters daily, because the empty can is always the same type. After a few days of running by this trash, I will go pick it up and put it in the recycle bin at my home. I know there will be more cans in the same section of the road in a few days. Even if I witnessed the person throwing the empty can on the side of the street, I would not confront him. Everyone realizes that littering is inconsiderate. A person can be aware but still not care. 

Epidemiologists have provided extensive information about the Covid 19 virus to the public. Most people have the ability to understand the science behind infectious diseases, how they spread, and how to mitigate community risk. They are aware, but they don’t care. They go about their lives doing things as usual and justifying their choices. 

It’s bad enough to be cavalier about your own health, but each time you expose yourself to the virus, you become a vector for community spread. This is inconsiderate. I am not going to confront you directly. I will do whatever I can to protect you and your loved ones. My husband, a physician, will keep putting himself at risk to treat you when you get sick. We will continue to be considerate, forbearing, and circumspect in all that we do. We shall persist in loving our neighbors as Christ taught. 

 


Friday, December 13, 2019

The Joyful Season

“Be cheerful with joyous celebration in every season of life. Let joy overflow, for you are united with the Anointed One!” (Philippians 4:5 TPT)

The month of December is filled with Christmas celebrations: decorated trees, sparkly lights, recreational shopping, wrapped presents, sugar cookies, and festive songs. This is the season of cheer. It doesn’t matter that it is cold outside or that the nights are long. We are occupied by merriment. Come January, things change. External circumstances get to us. The dreary weather, the extra bills, and the weight gain take center stage. For the next few months, many of us will be affected by seasonal depression. 

How can we be joyful in every season of life?

Amusements, novelties, and distractions can lead to superficial cheerfulness. Joy is not circumstantial. It is an intrinsic state of being that needs to be cultivated. Take every opportunity to remember that you are united with the Anointed One. Settle under His care. Nurture gratitude. Pray for divine perspective. Place your confidence in God.