Sunday, April 2, 2006

RESTORE ME: CONTINUING WITH GOD (3 R's of The Christian Faith)

“We have around us many people whose lives tell us what faith means. So let us run the race that is before us and never give up. We should remove from our lives anything that would get in the way and the sin that so easily holds us back.” Heb. 12:1 (NCV)

FINISHING WHAT YOUR START

…when you feel like giving up

1. REMOVE DISTRACTIONS

“Let us run the race that is before us and never give up. We should remove from our lives anything that would get in the way and the sin that so easily holds us back.” Heb. 12:1b

"No, dear brothers and sisters, I am still not all I should be, but I am focusing all my energies on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us up to heaven.” Philip. 3:13-14

2. RESIST DISCOURAGEMENT

"Let us not get tired of doing what is right, for after a while we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't get discouraged and give up.” Gal 6:9 (LB)

"Lord, when doubts fill my mind, when my heart is in turmoil, quiet me and give me renewed hope and cheer." Ps. 94:19 (LB)

“God who began the good work within you will keep right on helping you grow in His grace until His task within you is finally finished..." Phil. 1:6

3. RENEW DAILY

“ …God wants His loved ones to get their proper rest.” Ps 127:2 (LB)

“This why we never give up …our spirits are being renewed every day.” 2 Cor. 4:16

“Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from beginning to end. He did not give up because of the cross!” Heb. 12:2 (GN)

“ I have finished the race,

I have kept the faith.”

2 Tim. 4:7 (NIV)