Blessed Beyond Measure

Exceedingly above. Running over. These are the words used to describe what our expectation of God's ability to bless us should look like in our lives. We should be examples of “blessed beyond measure.” What does that really mean? Does it mean we will not encounter any issues? Does it mean we won’t experience hardship? No. Actually, when I think of some of the most blessed individuals in the bible, they endured the most. Job lost everything. David lived on the run, his child died, and his house was a hot mess. Elijah was tormented by Jezebel. Why would we expect any less? Our blessings are directly tied to our ability to endure hardship. It sounds oxymoronic, but God’s word said he would use the foolish things to confound the wise. People with the greatest testimonies have endured the greatest tests. No matter what you are going through, count it all joy. You are blessed beyond measure.

Moved

The Book of Psalms references not being moved or shaken. It describes a tree planted by rivers, and God being a rock and salvation. We live in a world that promotes fleeting emotions, and we find ourselves rooted in nothing. Our foundations are unsure because we don’t believe in anything. What was the last thing you felt so strongly about that you could not be moved or shaken? How grounded are you? What do you believe? Are you planted or placed? Is God really your rock and salvation? Be strong and of courage. Don’t be moved.

Mindful

Luke 12:7 KJV But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.

Sometimes, I feel like my mind doesn't rest. Late at night I run through lists in my head. Mostly, its my “to do” list or my grocery list or my “don’t forget" list. There are never ending lists. My mind is full. The day always seems to get away from me. The more I cross things off. The more things I add. Its cyclic. Its unending. However, God's mind is full of his plans and purpose for you. He knows the the plans he has for you; Plans to prosper you and bring you to an expected end. So, remember that when your mind is full….God is mindful!

More

We’ve all heard that God will never put more on you than you can bear. If I could be perfectly honest, sometimes I’m astonished at how much I can bear. There have been times, I have just wanted to quit. I’ve wanted to breakdown and cry, but I had to push through. I didn't realize my own strength. I didn't see a way out. I didn’t see the other side, but God. If you feel overwhelmed, know that God knows how much you can bear. God knows what he’s trying to produce. God knows how much “more” you can handle.

Chemistry

Chemistry is often overrated. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying attraction isn’t important, but its not what makes a relationship last. I used to think that I needed that spark to connect with someone. Over time, I’ve learned to value common beliefs and mutual respect. I value partnership. I value someone who can encourage me when I’m down. I value someone who can grow together with me. Chemistry is definitely a factor, but its not a deciding one.

Love Covers

1 Peter 4:8-And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.

This was yesterday's daily scripture. I started to think about divorce rates and came to the conclusion that we have been conditioned to quit. We don’t forgive. We don't give second chances. We quit. We get mad. We feel wronged, and we quit. Our love is circumstantial instead of unconditional. Our love is conditional. Our marriages are not based on devotion, but mutual convenience. We don't let love cover. We don’t love. We “like” strongly. Maybe we need to revisit the book of Peter to get a better understanding of the power of love. Real love covers.

Commissioned

Matthew 28:16-20 (NIV) Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

At some point, we all ask the question, “what am I here for?” There is more to life than working and paying bills. Over two thousand years ago, Christ commissioned his disciples to make disciples of all nations, to baptize and teach what they had learned following him. We are all called to be disciples of Christ. Most of us take heed and go, but who was the last disciple we made? Who was the last person we encouraged? We are not all going to hop a flight to the Middle East and declare God’s word, but what can you do locally? Maybe its sharing a post on social media or praying for a co-worker. Remember, you are not only called but you are commissioned.