Colossians 3

The Message verse 23-25: "Do your best. Work from the heart for your real Master, for God, confident that you'll get paid in full when you come into your inheritance. Keep in mind always that the ultimate Master you're serving is Christ. The sullen servant who does shoddy work will be held responsible. Being Christian doesn't cover up bad work."

We need to give God our best. The best of our time, talents, and resources. I have offered God some shoddy work over the years. My effort needs to be better in all areas of my life: marriage, parenthood, work, friendships, the church.......God gave us His best in Jesus. I need to offer my best to Him.

Colossians 2

V.13b/14 - "He forgave us all our sins....; he took it away, nailing it to the cross."

Our sins.....my sins, were nailed to that cross. My sins had to be driven through my Savior's hands and feet. My sins were on display, for the world to see.

But the world saw an innocent man. They did not see my sins, and most importantly; I think by not seeing my sins - it proves that Jesus not only takes away the sins of the world; but the guilt that may go with it. We are washed clean. I am washed clean. Thank you, Jesus!!!

Colossians 1

Verse 17 - "He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together."

I am counting on this.

Matthew 10

V.37 - ".....anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me."

How could Jesus ask this of us? When you have a rebellious child, as parents, we have a choice to make. Continue to obey God by having a home with Godly rules and principles; or make life at home more worldly and convenient for the child. My wife and I have chosen to keep God first. The result.....we now have a prodigal daughter. Our prayers will be for the same result as "the prodigal son". We love you God. Take care of our daughter while she is away from us...

Matthew 8

V.9 - "Jesus reached out is hand and touched the man. I AM WILLING, he said. Be clean!

I AM WILLING to forgive you for your sins.
I AM WILLING to rescue you from your own selfishness.
I AM WILLING to restore you to the position that you were created for.
I AM WILLING to be patient with you as you grow and make mistakes.
I AM WILLING to love you continually and unconditionally.
I AM WILLING to lead you to places you never thought you could go.
I AM WILLING to touch you in ways that make the world shake around you.
I AM WILLING to provide you with a peace that surpasses all understanding.
I AM WILLING to lead you not into temptation.
I AM WILLING to deliver you from the evil one.
I AM WILLING to bear the punishment for your sins (death).
I AM WILLING to take on ridicule and hostility for your future.
I AM WILLING to provide you the pathway to eternity to God.
I AM WILLING.

I AM WILLING to do all of this for you
Are you willing to accept it?
Are you willing to accept me?

I am willing, Jesus!

Matthew 7

verse 6 - "Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces."

When I read this verse, I think He is suggesting we need to be careful who we speak the Word of God to. Those who are bent on evil and of this world, will only use our words against us. We need to be wise about who we witness to.

I could use some help. Anyone else have some thoughts on this verse. PLEASE SHARE.