Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. –Matthew 5:10 NIV
If you’re convinced there’s nothing special about you or you have nothing to offer others, nothing could be further from the truth. Because you are a unique creation of God, you have a unique combination of skills, abilities, and gifts that no one else has. And God expects you to not only discover your gifts but use them to gather more disciples for His Kingdom.Have you figured out your gifts yet? Read the Bible daily and delve into God’s Word with the help of a small group. Seek a mentor. Join in regular prayer with other moms, dads, friends, students, etc. Start your journey on the Bayside Growth Track. Become attuned to the Holy Spirit, your personal Sage, Advisor, and all-around Best Friend. If you diligently seek to know, understand, and serve God, He’ll reveal everything you need to know.Once you uncover your strengths, act on them. The clock’s a-ticking, and it’s time to get a move on. There are as many ways to serve the Lord as there are people on the planet. The options are endless. Write, sing, or perform worship music. Write a book. Act. Preach. Teach. Be a missionary. Be an intercessory prayer warrior. Feed the hungry. Visit schools, nursing homes, prisons, hospitals. Start a business and run it the way Jesus would. Start a prayer group. Start a church. Whatever you do, do it in your own unique way. Do it for God, with God, and from God. Do it with love, humility, joy, patience, and cheer. Do it until your final breath.
Lord, help us to persevere even in the midst of persecution.
Thank You, Jesus, for Your promise of the Kingdom to come and to remember that this world is not our final destination.