I invite you to write a blog post on this quote. Add the direct URL link below. I would love to visit you and read your post. If you prefer, feel free to add your thoughts in the comments. I love to read them all.
So, here's our quote:
"What we do as followers of Christ flows out of who we are in Christ." Scott Savage, Minister to Young Adults, North Phoenix Baptist Church
My salvation isn't based on works. I can't do enough good deeds to earn myself a place in heaven.
I see many people who are trying to do many good things. They become so busy volunteering and never say no.
But consider this. God sees everything we do. He also looks into our hearts and knows the motive behind all we do.
Are you doing things for recognition? Are you doing things because it's expected of you? Or are you doing things out of love?
Ephesians 2:10 goes on to say that we were created to do good works.
I don't know about you but when I really think about and consider what Jesus did for me on the Cross ... I'm overwhelmed.
Jesus was humiliated and treated so unfairly. He could have called on a legion of angels to rescue Him and take Him down from the Cross. But He didn't. Because He loved you and me, He endured the humiliation and torture on the Cross.
Jesus died so my sins could be forgiven and I could have peace with God. But I had to receive that salvation as a gift. I didn't earn it. I didn't deserve it. I received it with gratitude. How amazing is that?
In response:
- I yield to His leadership.
- I am no longer my own boss.
- I read my Bible daily.
- I pray.
- I listen for His soft voice (not audible).
- I respond in obedience.
How can I not desire to serve Him in any way He asks of me?
But how do I know the works He has planned for me to do?
I believe the secret is found in John 15:5:
The real secret is ...abiding.
When I abide in Him, I will bear fruit. I don't have to struggle to bear fruit. It's a byproduct of remaining in the Vine.
An orange tree doesn't produce figs. It yields oranges if it's watered properly.
As I stay connected to Him, He will prompt me.
I have a choice. Will I respond in obedience?
I remember who I am in Christ? Here are just a few:
- I am God's child.
- I am a light to the world.
- I am free from condemnation.
- I am a temple of the Holy Spirit.
For a more complete list, you can access Dr. Neil Anderson's PDF here.
I encourage you to share your thoughts and link up today.
Blessings and love,
Oh Debbie, I hung on every word with my head shaking, yes, yes, yes. How humbling is the love of Christ and all He's done for us. You said it all here:
ReplyDelete" How can I not desire to serve Him in any way He asks of me?"
Love you and thanks for the powerful, convicting reminders.
I just answered a question on another blog about abiding! Beautiful. Amen. WIll be back to link soon!
ReplyDeleteSo true...else...all things become robotic and really by abiding in Him....all things become more an example of Him and less of us!
ReplyDeleteGreat words
That was a great quote to write on. The benefits of being IN Christ is far greater than being without Him. Its a wonderful thing. Thanks so much for reminding us of what we have IN Him and because of Him.
ReplyDeleteI love what you said about abiding. If we would but rest in Him.
ReplyDeleteIt's good to be reminded that when we are making a difference in this world, in reality, it is God making that change through us. Oh that may we always draw nearer to our good Lord. And that our roots go down deeper into His ground of love. Because without love, everything we do, like Paul said...It's nothing...
ReplyDeleteLove this Debbie "When I abide in Him, I will bear fruit. I don't have to struggle to bear fruit. It's a byproduct of remaining in the Vine." Apart from God, our efforts are unfruitful! It’s so important that we commit to total obedience, with an authentic heart and wholehearted commitment to the things of God.
ReplyDeleteGreat post!
Blessings and hugs,
Denise
I love the word "abide." It brings comfort just saying the word and when we abide in HIM, we truly find that comfort. Another great post Debbie! Hugs!
ReplyDeleteSteeped in religion for the first 28 years of my life, I can wholeheartedly give your post the thumbs up. All the benefits of belonging to Him just because I said yes is very overwhelming. I like what you listed about the bullet points of knowing who I am in Christ!
ReplyDelete