Beliefs

I find it funny that we place such high expectations on ourselves. Take our beliefs for example. Oftentimes we take our beliefs very seriously. We'll waste our life away debating with others. Fights will break out over disagreements. War may even come of it. Yes, there are some core things that are worth fighting for. There are things we must act upon instead of idly sitting around. The starving need a helping hand. The oppressed need rescuing...the innocent, a protector.

Yet I think we are too hard on ourselves and each other. When it comes to following Christ, we may mentor and lead others at times, but we will always be disciples - students and followers of Jesus. We cannot expect to get this life thing down perfectly on the first try.

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. - Philippians 2:12-13

Our salvation is something we have to work out. We're going to spend our entire lives seeking out the mysteries of Christ and searching the depths of God's heart. You've got a lifetime of discovery ahead of you. Don't expect to have it all figured out after a couple of years. If you take yourself too seriously, prepare to be offended. Be a child of faith. Enjoy life and learn every day.

There are core truths and foundational doctrines that you cannot deny without stripping God of His identity. Hold tight to those things always. Stay in the Word and grow.

What it means to be a tree.

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers;

but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.

He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. – PSALM 1:1-3

What comes to mind first when I hear the word “tree” is shade. Cool, refreshing shade. Relief from the sun. Protection. This makes me desire more depth in Christ. I want to be a tree to my loved ones and all others that I cross paths with. I want to refresh people when they are with me. I long to be so deeply rooted in my faith that people feel shielded and safe when they are in my presence.

Trees are steadfast and resilient…even to the point that they hold the ground beneath them in place. My desire is to root myself in truth; to stand on the words of Christ, and hold them beneath me when the storms of this life try to strip me of their power.