We all know what most people think about ‘those’ weird people who eat Gluten Free, they must be hippies. As I sit here in my kitchen to type this blog, I am looking at my youngest son stuff his face with Gluten-Free pancakes. If you are wondering why we eat GF, it is because our oldest son is severely allergic to wheat. It is much easier to feed everyone the same thing as you can imagine.
We don’t eat GF because it’s trending in culture. We eat it because Kadin’s throat would close up and we would have to jab an EpiPen in his leg to open up his airways.
We exhibit belief in things for two reasons. First, we feel forced because of circumstances out of our control. Second, we make decisions because we think it is for the betterment of ourselves and our families. We have to ask ourselves; what is the standard for our belief?
Now, I need you to know something about me. I have struggled with doubt and disbelief since the day I allowed Christ into my heart and make me into a new creation. Life has thrown some wicked curveballs that have challenged what I believe. Can you think of something recently that challenged what you believe to be right with your relationship with Christ?
Determining Factor: Is it in the Bible?
Let’s look closely at Paul’s life in his letter to the Philippian church in Philippi. Paul fought for the integrity of his teaching to the Philippian church because false teachers were coming in to stir up trouble.
Fighting Must be Natural
When our kids start to fight with each other (this happens just about every 24 minutes), we sit them down and ask them a question, “Were you stirring up trouble with your brother or promoting peace?” This way, they understand the difference between trouble and peace at a young age. Not to mention, the Bible commands that we promote peace and not stir up trouble.
Some things are worth fighting for in our lives, and we have to determine which choices are worth making. Ultimately, we have to fight for the right choice.
Philippians 1:18-20:
18 But that doesn’t matter. Whether their motives are false or genuine, the message about Christ is being preached either way, so I rejoice. And I will continue to rejoice. 19 For I know that as you pray for me and the Spirit of Jesus Christ helps me, this will lead to my deliverance. 20 For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die.
Paul decided it was better to find joy in prison than it was to look for temporary pleasure from the world.
What’s holding you in prison right now?
Which choice do you need to make to break free?
The point is this: Paul was in prison, no doubt in chains; however, he was still free. We can choose joy and peace, no MATTER what’s going on in our lives. Joy and peace are possible through the power of Jesus Christ. Do you believe He took all of your mistakes on His shoulders and rose from the dead so you can choose peace and joy?
By the way, it’s okay if you lean on other people through those prison experiences, Paul did. The answer is in Jesus, and the people he created in His image help navigate those moments.
What Would You Do?
I read an interesting article last night about a couple discovering loads of cash in their basement while remodeling. After they found the money, they found two hidden rooms along with hidden safes. You can imagine their excitement as they opened each room and safe.
The uneasiness came when they discovered a room covered in plastic and the very last safe. As the couple opened the last safe, the man and woman found a note that read, “Save Yourself.” Of course, the couple’s uneasiness grew, and their guts were telling them to stop looking, but how could they stop when they found ANOTHER safe?
The couple then opens the very last safe to find a note that said, “DO NOT.” What they see is a suitcase full of VCR tapes. They decide to leave the suitcase there and decide how to spend the thousands of dollars on their home remodel. As you can imagine, the man couldn’t stop thinking about those tapes as he laid in bed each night.
The anticipation got the best of him. He watched 3 minutes of the first tape and called the FBI right away. Now, he could have called the cops; however, he didn’t. One could only guess what he saw. So, what happens next? The FBI swarm his house with multiple agents for days as they turn his home upside down and dig up his backyard. The FBI hasn’t disclosed their investigation, but you have to think this couple found something of grave importance to the bureau.
Choices Define Us
This couple had to make a series of decisions to uncover the mystery hidden in their home. We encounter choices each day, and what we decide has an impact on us, our families, and our friends.
ARE you in prison emotionally, spiritually, or mentally?
WILL you choose to allow Jesus to take that burden and seek help from someone who is walking with Christ?
Doulos,
Chet
