But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.
Galatians 5:22-26
For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18
In this fallen, scarred world, people will try to make you feel weak or out of touch when you firmly stand for God and His holy, inspired, Word (1 Corinthians 1:27). Your life might offend people who don't have the courage to rise to your level, so they attempt to pull you down to theirs (1 Peter 2:8-10). Be encouraged, mighty warriors (Judges 6:12b)! When you have compassion for people who hurt you (Matthew 5:44), when you refuse to blend and accept a mediocre fate (2 Corinthians 6:17), when you stand for truth in the midst of well-crafted lies (Romans 3:4), when you build others up while they are tearing you down (Romans 12:14), when you refuse to cave while evil is promoted (Romans 12:21), when you choose action over passivity (Romans 12:11), when you speak from your heart instead of speaking to please (Psalm 19:14)—you are a true exhibition of godly character (Isaiah 66:2). God sees your quiet strength and He is fighting on your side (Exodus 14:14). Keep being you. Keep doing right when others do you wrong. You'll be able to rest peacefully at night and hold your head high every day (Proverbs 3:24). Refuse to live your life passionless. Refuse to be abused by Satan (James 4:7) and by those who try to make you feel worthless (Isaiah 54:17).
Pray this prayer with me:
God, give me the strength to stand for what’s right (Romans 12:9), even if I feel like I’m standing alone (Isaiah 43:2). When I'm misunderstood, be my comfort and friend (John 15:18). When I'm burdened by failure, remind me of your grace and help me to extend that same grace to others (Ephesians 2:8-9). I will trust you, even when I don’t see your plan (Proverbs 3:5). Keep my heart from growing cold, and may it remain pliable in Your hands (Ezekiel 36:26). May bitterness never hinder my prayers (Hebrews 12:15), or unforgiveness keep me unforgiven (Mark 11:25). Remind me once again that who I am in you has nothing to do with who I am not to people (1 Samuel 16:7). Amen.
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