From: "Phil Rembleski" <PHIl@rescuechurchofchrist.org>

To: "1111RESCUEMEMBERS"

Cc:

Sent: Thu, Jan 23, 2025 at 5:57 AM

Subject: 1-23-25 THOUGHTS

1-23-25   THOUGHTS

I think we can say that our quality of life is related to our godliness and contentment.  Life is not about the physical!  The “root” or source of all evil is a love for the wrong things.  1John 2:15-17  “Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16  For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. 17  The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever.”
There is a “fight of faith” mentioned, that is to be maintained against longings for this world.
"Flee"  is the word used.  It is powerful and descriptive.  “Pursue” is also a powerful word of action!   Let’s  “take hold of eternal life!”  

1Tim 6:6-12    But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. 7  For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. 8  If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. 9  But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10  For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. 11  But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness. 12  Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called, and you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

My Prayer:
Father, You have called us to eternal life in Christ Jesus.  Guard us and guide us that we might take hold of it.  Keep us from loving this old world.  Keep us from the grief of lust.  May we learn powerful  “fleeing skills” and “pursuing skills”!  May we keep our hearts with all diligence, ever looking to You, our God.  May the griefs and piercings that come from bad priority and focus, pass us by as we set our minds on You.  Bless us as only You can.  We praise You for Your awesome ways and teachings that bring victory.   In Jesus’ name,    Amen.