James 1:22

²² But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.

This past weekend was a wonderful weekend. We spent time with family and friends, celebrating a birthday in the family. Sunday, we went to church, to recharge spiritually, and draw closer to God. And to listen to what He was going to say to us that day. I’m always amazed at how God works! God always speaks to me in some form or fashion through the services. And, it’s always just the right words, at just the right time. Whether God is carrying us through a trial, or we are going through a great time in life. God is always speaking to us.

But, we need to really reflect on what it is He is asking of us. Usually, it’s God working through our pastor, to give me a word or words that I need to hear. I make it a point, to reflect upon the things that I hear God God is asking of me. I believe self reflection is really important for us, if we are to grow closer in our relationship with Jesus. After all, we have to be honest with ourselves, and admit that none of us are perfect. We all sin, and fall short of the glory of God.

Each and every one of us needs the forgiveness that is being offered, through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. Jesus offers us redemption and forgiveness, but it is totally up to us, if we want to accept it or not. Jesus will not force us to love Him.

Matthew 23:37-39

³⁷ “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing.³⁸ Look, your house is left to you desolate. ³⁹ For I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.“

God is gracious, loving, and patient with us. Even when we feel distant from Him, He is right here with us. When we get into God’s word, we will continue to grow in our faith, and learn more about who Jesus is, and how He set the example for us. We should strive to be more like Jesus, as we live our lives. We will never achieve a life of perfection, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try.

As I continue to write this, my mind again is led to the lead verse in this post, from James 1:22. Be doers of the word, and not hearers only. I reflect a lot on what Jesus is asking of me, and who He wants me to become. I’ll borrow a few lines from my pastor. Living your life for Jesus, is not a spectator sport. Jesus is asking more of us. He’s asking us to get up off the sidelines, and get into the game. However, in order to be good at any sport, we need to practice it. Not only practice it, but live it.

Are we living and loving Jesus enough, that we practice our faith daily. If I’m honest with myself, I do stumble and fall. I don’t always live up to the expectations of my father in heaven. Quite honestly, sometimes, I’m a knucklehead! We will stumble and fall, but it’s important that we reflect upon our shortcomings and our weaknesses, so we can make the necessary changes in our life, to live more like Jesus.

In conclusion, a few questions come to mind, that each of us can reflect upon daily, to hopefully draw closer in our relationship with Jesus, and get up off the sidelines. Am I listening for God’s direction today? What is God asking of me today? What have I done to draw nearer to Him today? Have I studied His word, reached out to God in prayer, or silently reflected on my life? Who does God want me to become, and what changes do I need to make in my life to achieve oneness in Christ?

Remember, Jesus loves each and every one of us. He wants each of us to draw nearer and closer to Him. What is Jesus asking of you?