A New Self by Ann Broughton

“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:22-24 NIV).

   The New Year is here and during this time, I take some time to reflect on my Christian walk during the past year.  I am hoping that you also will look back on the old year and think of ways your walk with Christ brought hope to others. Can you say that for the most part you put off your old self or were your desires more important than what God wanted for you?

It is tough to look back, but important so that you can see your mistakes and learn from them. It is also good to think on the ways that you served God. Did you show His love to others? Did you give to others without expecting anything in return?

   Now, let’s talk about our new attitudes. We are “to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” Eph. 4:24 NIV). Now I think that would be an excellent resolution for the New Year.  I think everyone has something that they would like to fix on their body for the New Year. It usually revolves around a new body that looks like a fitness instructor. You know, all muscle for the guys, and a perfect hour glass firm body for the gals. Well, I think that is a great goal, but without work it won’t happen. Our new self and attitude takes work too. It means being just as dedicated to prayer and reading the Bible, as you are to exercising and eating healthy. Your spiritual self needs to be made new, along with your body. 

    So for the New Year, think about really putting on the new self and being like God in true righteousness. Be humble, pray, read the Bible, give to others, have a positive attitude, and be forgiving.

Dear Lord,

I know you created me with a specific purpose in mind. Help me to fulfill that purpose by putting off my old self and putting on my new self. Help me to strive to serve others with humility and compassion.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

Be Kind by Ann Broughton

“Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else” (Thessalonians 5:15 NIV).

   ‘Tis the season to be jolly. Ever heard that before? Sometimes the Christmas season can bring out the worst in some people unfortunately. I was appalled when I heard that people got into fist fights over an item during the Black Friday shopping. As Christians we are called to be kind no matter what, even when someone does something wrong to us. It is hard, but we must. Also, when we go shopping we are to represent the Lord in all we say and do.

I always treat the cashiers with deepest respect, because they have a difficult job. I asked one once about how people treated her. She said some people are so rude and nasty. After learning that, I make it my priority to treat them with respect and kindness.

    Other ways you can show you are a Christian during this season is by letting other people go ahead of you in lines. Don’t complain if you have to wait awhile. Take time to pray for those around you while you are waiting. Chances are they need it. Once I saw a lady waiting in line at the pharmacy and she was crying. I asked her what was wrong and then told her I would pray for her. There are so many people who are hurting who need someone to just take time and care.

     Look for ways while you are shopping to help others out. If you see an elderly person, ask if you can help in some way. Take their cart back to the corral or help them load their groceries. There are so many opportunities to help others, but so many times we are all about our own business and miss opportunities to serve the Lord in a special way.

     My challenge for you this week is to look for ways to help others every day, and especially when you are shopping. People need a smile, a caring heart, and someone to help them. You be that person. You can show others the kindness that Christ demonstrated to others in His ministry.

   Dear Lord,

Help me to show your kindness to others this season in everything I do and everywhere I go. Let me be aware of opportunities to help others and make a difference in someone else’s life.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen