For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable. Romans 11:29 (NKJV) Why am I here? What should I be doing? Is there a purpose to my life? If you have ever asked yourself questions like these, you’re not alone. Most Christians want to understand God’s plans for them, but may be unsure of how to hear from Him clearly. Or they may have something in mind that they’d love to do, but are wondering if God approves. God’s plans always lead to the greatest fulfilment, joy and satisfaction. According to Romans 11:29, God has placed gifts within you and a calling on your life. Ephesians 2:10 says that you can choose to walk in these plans. In other words: God doesn’t force you …

And above all things, have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:8 (NKJV) There is a popular saying that goes something like this: “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” It’s true. Love changes things. When you know that someone loves you, their advice is received differently than if you think they don’t care. Even if you don’t agree with everything they say, you know that their intentions are good because they love you. Love also covers over a multitude of sins. I’m not saying that love condones sin, but when you love someone, you need to choose to be quick to forgive because you value the relationship. Being …

Who are you to judge another’s servant? To his own master, he stands or falls. Indeed he will be made to stand, for the God is able to make him stand. Romans 14:4 (NKJV) As a member of your family, you are helping to create the culture of your home, whether you realize it or not. Is it an attractive culture? Think of your favourite coffee shop or restaurant. It houses an atmosphere that keeps you coming back. You want to spend time there because of its culture. Your home can have that kind of attractive culture as well—one that keeps family coming back for more. It can be an inviting place where, no matter what, everyone feels loved, accepted and forgiven. This is a …

Run hard and fast in the faith. Seize the eternal life, the life you were called to, the life you so fervently embraced in the presence of so many witnesses. 1 Timothy 6:11–12 (MSG) It’s up to you to seize the kind of life you want. Most people think that the eternal life mentioned in today’s verses refer to Heaven, but it’s also referring to your quality of life here on earth. So when it says to “lay hold on eternal life” (KJV), it’s also talking about the here and now. Notice it doesn’t say you should hope for this life. It doesn’t even say to pray for this life, although we know that prayer is powerful. It says to lay hold of the life …

The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. Galatians 5:17 (NLT) In life, there will be times when you have to face challenges—financial struggles, heath problems, or people lying about you. Whatever challenge it may be, you’ll need to stay strong. But one of the biggest temptations you’ll ever face as a Christian is the desire to slow down and relax. When no one else around you seems to be working hard or when everything seems to be going fine without …