Dear Northside
The Passion Week and the Easter weekend have come and gone. So what now? As we have said a few times, the Easter story continues. It continues in and through us. Last Sunday, we saw how Jesus comes to us, His disciples, in our confusion. He opens and explains His Word and turns our confusion into purpose. So, as we continue the Easter story in our lives, I think it is important to pursue what matters most.
In the book of Romans, Paul begs Christians to give their entire lives over to God because God sacrificed everything for them. Jesus gave up His life so that we could experience His unending love and grace. We cheapen His gifts if we refuse to align our lives with the way Jesus lived. But we give our lives to God by making Him the one thing we pursue above anything else. So here are 5 steps you can practice—right now—to help you put God first:
- GIVE THANKS
“We give thanks to You, O God; we give thanks, for Your Name is near. We recount Your wondrous deeds.” Psalms 75:1
Right now, take a moment to thank God for what He’s already done for you. Reflect on His faithfulness, and recount the stories you have seen and heard of His wonderful power.
- SPEND 5 MINUTES IN SILENCE
“Abide in me, and I in you.” John 15:4
Abiding in Jesus starts with stillness. So right now, pause, take a deep breath, and give anything concerning you over to God. Spend 5 minutes centring your heart on the One who matters most.
- REMEMBER WHOSE YOU ARE
“You are not your own, for you were bought with a price.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
God loves you. The price He paid for you cost Him everything. So, remind yourself of whose you are, and reflect on some of the things God says about you.
- MEDITATE ON GOD’S WORD
“Oh, how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day.” Psalms 119:97
One of the best ways to find out how Jesus wants you to live is by spending time in Scripture. As you do, ask God to speak to you through His Word about what His will is.
- FOCUS ON WHAT IS EXCELLENT
“…If there is any excellence… think about these things.” Philippians 4:8
You have been given the mind of Christ. If you’re not sure what you should think about, try asking yourself: What is praiseworthy? What thoughts and actions would honour God? Make a list of whatever comes to mind, and pursue those things.
By practising these steps every day, you can create habits that will help you pursue intimacy with God and put Him first above everything else.
We continue to look for short testimonies of God-sightings. Please share them with us. We would also like to publish some of them in the weekly bulletin – so please indicate if you are willing for us to do that.
God bless, Pastor Gary