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Dominating Influence
December 1, 2009
His birth commanded attention!
His life commanded attention!
His death commanded attention!
His resurrection comanded attention!
The word "commanded", according to Webster's Online Dictionary, means to exercise a dominating influence over.
I was writing a "Thanksgiving" article for my church's weekly newsletter. The scripture I found was, "In everything give thanks for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1Thessalonians 5:18
EVERYTHING - really? Even the bad things? What about as I sit as one that is unemployed? When my spouse is in the hospital? When I have a rebellious child? When those 'irregular' relatives come to Christmas dinner?!
There are times I just look at scripture and say, "Are you kidding me?" As I grow older I understand more, as I mature I 'get it', as I look back I see how God has given what I needed just in time. "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)
God says it is His WILL for us to give thanks. We are also told to love our neighbor, to be kind to the ungrateful and evil (Luke 6:35). To forgive (Ephesians 4:32). To encourage (I Thessalonians 5:11). To honor (Romans 12:10b). When God tells me it is 'most like Him' to act this way I will take that as a command, not a strong suggestion, not an attitude of 'if I feel like it', but a command.
As a birthday gift to Jesus this year I will allow Him to have a "dominating influence over me".
I will treat Him and His Word as my every command that demands my full attention!
What will you give Jesus for His birthday this year?
Merry Christmas!
Rhoda
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