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Observations from today’s readings and today’s S-WOD, Wednesday, 1 July 20:
Philippians 4:8 — Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
“Be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” (Romans 12:2) The transformation of our minds includes the choice to think godly thoughts and eliminate negative, ungodly thinking along with those things in our lives which might help induce such harmful thinking. Christians must practice the discipline of thought control, which includes adding some things, removing some other things, keeping the right perspective, choosing the right attitude, and focusing on the right topics while ignoring other, unprofitable topics. Constant prayer, Bible study, and Christian fellowship are foundational. We must also practice the habit of continually proclaiming our thankfulness and hope (confidence) to ourselves and to others.
– 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 — Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
– Ephesians 5:20 — Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ….
– Psalm 50:14 — Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High….
– Colossians 3:15-17 — And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
– Philippians 4:4-7 — Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
The secret to thankfulness and reveling in what is honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise, is to continually draw closer to Jesus. The more we truly know Him, the more joyful we will naturally be. Love and joy go hand in hand.
Haven’t you ever noticed the radiance and elated demeanor of someone who is in love? Haven’t you observed how someone who is on love seems to be happy about everything? If this is how people act when they fall in love with other people, how should we act in response to God’s perfect love for us and our love for Him? Simply being with Jesus should change your outlook on everything. When you are with the love of your life, shouldn’t every minute be a celebration? Shouldn’t your overflowing joy be evident to everyone around you, and shouldn’t your radiance be an incredible testimony to others of the wonderfulness of Jesus? It’s time to celebrate!
Every morning when you begin another day with Jesus, proclaim to yourself and everyone around you, “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24) Your attitude of joy, thanksgiving, excitement, and anticipation will be infectious.
“Cross” Fit S-WOD (Spiritual Workout of the Day) – 2 July 20: Regardless the situation, praise God today within your spirit and outwardly to others around you, and see if that doesn’t naturally effect your joy and empower your testimony.
Defenders Bible Reading Plan 