“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.”
I am excited today because daily I’m able to interact with Christians that are committed to their faith. Our faith is what makes us pleasing to God. It seems like inconsistency is the norm in today’s society, yet there are those that are lifting up the name of Jesus without compromise. Sometimes Christianity gets a bad rap because of a few bad apples. However, I believe that the few are the ones that are holding this community together. A few prayer warriors, a few good deeds, a few good men, and a few good women, know that your labor is not in vain and your blessing is on the way!
Remain faithful. Hebrews 10:23-25 says, “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” For some of us, we’ve heard that “Christ is returning” all of our lives. Certainly, this has been the case for me, yet I still believe that this is true and I strive to remain faithful even in the midst of inconsistent unfaithful times. We must not forget the promises of God and press forward in spite of what our situation looks like.
Prepare for the Harvest: Proverbs 24:27 reminds us to, “Prepare your work outside and get it ready for yourself in the field; Afterward build your house and establish a home.” As sure as a seed is sown, we know there has got to be a harvest. So, as we travel along in life, we must prepare for the trials and transitions that we know are coming our way. Physically, mentally, and financially, we prepare to deal with the distractions that will try to hinder your forward progress. We’re always preparing for our heavenly home, even as we build our physical home. A home isn’t developed overnight, there will be stumbling blocks along the way, but our preparation makes the transition so much easier.
God’s way is always the best way. Trust the plan He has for your life. Live one day at a time and strive for perfection. An old saying reminds us to shoot for the moon and if we don’t succeed, at least we’ll be amongst the stars. His plan always keeps us on top, so don’t grow weary. Let’s press forward God’s way!
Richard Hayes is the Pastor of New Day Community Church and President of the United Ministerial Alliance.