Christian life

Called to Holiness: Your Purpose in God’s Plan

Called to Holiness: Your Purpose in God’s Plan

“For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life.”

1 Thessalonians 4:7

Understanding Your Call

Remember getting a phone call that changed your life? Maybe it was a job offer or important news from family.

Well, you’ve received an even more significant call – God’s invitation to holiness.

What Holiness Really Means

Let’s clear something up right away – holiness isn’t about walking around with a glowing halo or speaking in thee’s and thou’s.

Think of it more like a wedding ring. The ring is set apart for a special purpose – to show commitment and belonging.

That’s what holiness means – being set apart for God’s special purpose.

Breaking Down the Truth

The verse tells us two important things:

  • What we’re not called to (impurity)
  • What we are called to (holiness)

It’s like having a GPS with both warnings about wrong turns and clear directions to your destination.

Making it Real

Imagine you bought a beautiful new car. Would you use it to haul garbage?

Of course not! You’d use it for its intended purpose.

Similarly, God calls you to a life that matches your true purpose – reflecting His character.

Your Daily Walk

Holiness shows up in everyday moments:

  • How you respond to frustration
  • The way you treat others
  • Your choices when no one’s watching
  • Your thoughts and attitudes

Practical Steps

Start viewing your daily activities through the lens of holiness. Before making decisions, ask yourself:

  • Does this match who God called me to be?
  • Will this choice draw me closer to God’s purpose?
  • How can I honor God in this situation?

Good News

Here’s something wonderful – God doesn’t expect instant perfection. Holiness is a journey, not a destination. Each small choice to honor God is a step in the right direction.

Your Response

Maybe you’re thinking, “I’ve made too many mistakes.” Remember, God’s call isn’t based on your past performance but on His purpose for your life.

Every moment offers a fresh opportunity to respond to His call.

Real-Life Application

Think about your schedule today. Each appointment, task, or interaction is an opportunity to live out your calling to holiness. It might mean:

  • Speaking kind words when you’re tired
  • Choosing integrity when it costs you something
  • Showing patience in frustrating situations

Prayer

Father, thank you for calling me to a holy life. Help me understand what this means in my daily routine. Give me wisdom to make choices that honor You and strength to live according to Your purpose. Make my ordinary moments reflect Your extraordinary character. Amen.

Reflection Question

In what specific area of your life do you hear God calling you to greater holiness today?

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy Today – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Holiness
Don’t Quench the Holy Spirit: Staying Open to God’s Guidance

Don’t Quench the Holy Spirit: Staying Open to God’s Guidance

Have you ever had that feeling – a nudge in a certain direction, a flicker of intuition that seems to know the right path? That, my friend, could very well be the Holy Spirit whispering guidance in your ear.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:19, the Bible tells us “Do not quench the Spirit.” But what exactly does that mean? How can we quench the Holy Spirit, and how can we stay open to His leading?

The Holy Spirit: Our Internal GPS

Think of the Holy Spirit as God’s built-in GPS for our lives. He guides us, corrects us, and empowers us to live according to God’s will.

He speaks through that feeling in your gut, that quiet voice urging you towards kindness or away from temptation.

But just like any GPS, the Holy Spirit’s guidance can be muffled if we’re not paying attention. Here’s how we might, unintentionally, quench the Spirit’s flame:

  • Distractions: We live in a noisy world. Constant busyness, social media, and entertainment can drown out the subtle promptings of the Holy Spirit.
  • Disobedience: When we knowingly choose to go against what we believe is the right thing to do, we push away the Spirit’s guidance.
  • Unbelief: Doubting God’s presence or guidance creates a barrier between us and the Holy Spirit.

Staying Open to the Holy Spirit

So how do we stay tuned in to the Holy Spirit’s frequency? Here are a few tips:

  • Quiet Time: Make space for daily prayer and reflection. This allows the Spirit’s voice to rise above the daily noise.
  • Bible Study: Reading God’s word equips you to recognize the Spirit’s leading, as He often guides us based on biblical principles.
  • Living a Holy Life: The more we strive to live according to God’s will, the easier it becomes to recognize and follow the Spirit’s promptings.
  • Discernment: Not every impulse is the Holy Spirit. Pray for wisdom to discern the Spirit’s voice from your own thoughts or desires.

By staying open and receptive, the Holy Spirit can become an incredible guide in your life.

He will lead you to make God-honoring choices, convict you of sin, and empower you to live a life that glorifies Him.

So, listen closely, and don’t quench the flame of the Holy Spirit within you!

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration
Angelic Protection – Psalm 91:11

Angelic Protection – Psalm 91:11

Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes we feel exposed to dangers, both seen and unseen. Psalm 91:11 offers a comforting message of protection:

“For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”

Psalm 91:11

Angels Serving the Christian

While the Bible doesn’t explicitly detail how angels protect us, it assures us of their presence and God’s command for them to watch over us.

 Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?

Hebrews 1:14

Finding Comfort in God’s Care

The knowledge that God assigns angels for our protection brings comfort.

It signifies that we’re not alone in this world, and a higher power actively cares for our well-being.

Living with Faith, Not Fear

This verse doesn’t negate the existence of danger. However, it encourages us to live with faith, not fear.

By trusting in God’s care and angelic protection, we can navigate life’s challenges with courage and peace.

Beyond Physical Protection

It’s important to remember that angelic protection might not always be physical. It could involve guidance, inspiration, or even averting unseen dangers.

Deepening Your Faith

Here are some ways to deepen your faith and find comfort in God’s angelic protection:

  • Prayer: Thank God for His care and protection. Ask Him to send His angels to guide and guard you.
  • Bible Study: Read scriptures about angels and their role in God’s plan. – Bible Verses to Look Up
  • Develop a Relationship with God: The stronger your connection with God, the more confident you can be in His protection.

Finding Peace in God’s Presence

Understanding God’s angelic protection, you get a sense of peace and security in His presence. Even when facing challenges, you can trust that you’re not alone, and God’s loving hand is over you.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Faith, Trust
Taking Refuge in God

Taking Refuge in God

Life can be unpredictable, throwing curve-balls that leave us feeling vulnerable and scared.

When facing danger or uncertainty, it’s natural to seek refuge – a safe haven where we can feel protected. Psalm 71:1 offers a comforting reminder:

“In you, Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame.”

Psalm 71:1

Taking Refuge in God

Taking refuge in God goes beyond simply saying a prayer.

It’s about trusting Him completely, believing He is your ultimate source of security and protection.

It’s about surrendering your fears and anxieties to Him, knowing He is a loving and very capable God.

Can We Take Refuge in God?

Here are some ways to cultivate a sense of refuge in God:

  • Faith: Develop a strong faith in God’s character. Believe in His love, power, and faithfulness to protect you.
  • Prayer: Regularly communicate with God, expressing your fears and anxieties. Seek His guidance and strength.
  • Scripture: Immerse yourself in the Bible. God’s word offers comfort, encouragement, and reminders of His unfailing love.
  • Community: Surround yourself with a supportive community of believers who can offer encouragement and prayer.

Never Be Put to Shame

The verse expresses a desire to avoid “shame” – a feeling of humiliation or disgrace. A good acronym for SHAME –

Should Have Already Mastered Everything”

By taking refuge in God, we find the courage to face challenges knowing He is with us.

We can trust that He won’t abandon us, and our faith in Him will not be put to shame.

Security in Crazy Times

The world can be a scary place, but by taking refuge in God, you build an inner strength and peace that transcends circumstances.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Trust
Casting Your Burdens on God: Psalm 55:22

Casting Your Burdens on God: Psalm 55:22

We all face challenges in life. Sometimes, the weight of our problems can feel overwhelming. In those moments, it’s easy to get discouraged and lose hope.

Psalm 55:22 offers a powerful message of comfort:

“Cast your burdens on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.”

Psalm 55:22

What Does “Casting Your Burdens on the Lord” Mean?

Burdens can represent anything that weighs you down – worries, anxieties, financial difficulties, relationship struggles, or health concerns.

To “cast” them on the Lord means to surrender your worries to Him, trusting that He will take care of them.

How Can We Cast Our Burdens on God?

Here are some ways to release your burdens and find relief:

  • Prayer: Talk openly and honestly with God about your struggles. Hold nothing back from Him! Let go of your worries and anxieties, trusting that He hears you, because He does..
  • Surrender: Acknowledge that you can’t control everything, and choose to surrender your problems to God’s loving hands.
  • Faith: Believe that God wants the best for you and has the power to help you through any difficulty.

He Sustains You

The verse gives assurance that God will “sustain” you. This means He will provide for your needs, give you strength, and guide you through challenging times. He won’t leave you alone to carry your burdens.

He Never Lets the Righteous Fall

“Righteous” doesn’t mean perfect. The verse assures us that God won’t let His followers fall completely. He might allow difficulties to refine our faith, but He will always be there to catch us and lift us back up.

Freedom from Worry

By casting your burdens on God, you release yourself from the crippling weight of worry.

This allows you to experience peace, even in the midst of challenges. Trust that God is in control, and allow Him to carry your burdens.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Trust