JOHN SHIRK – In the Year to Shine, today’s Vital Step to a Radiant Faith is to offer our mind to God.

Part of the greatest commandment in the Bible is to love God with all of our mind. This means fixing our thoughts on Jesus, who is worthy of our praise. Our focus is on what God desires for our lives, and the result of that focus point is life and peace.

There is eternal value in focusing on the good news of what Jesus has done for our salvation.

In Philippians 4:8, the Apostle Paul offered this focus point for our minds-“Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.” Jesus fits all these descriptions. Verse 9 tells us that the God of peace will be with us.

Offering our mind to God is a vital step to a radiant faith that makes a difference in our world.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – In the Year to Shine, today’s Vital Step to a Radiant Faith is wholesome thinking that is focused on Jesus.

The Apostle Paul had the practice of taking captive every thought and making it obedient to Christ. Our thoughts are important in shaping our decisions, desires, and destiny. Words that come out of our mouth generally start with thoughts.

This was what Paul wrote in Philippians 4:8, “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things.”

Jesus fits the description of these words. When we focus on Him, we are fixed on what is true, right, and pure in our lives. This focus invites the peace of God to shine through our lives.

Wholesome thinking is a vital step to a radiant faith that makes a difference in our world.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Key Element for Thriving Relationships is Wisdom.

The way of wisdom leads to character qualities that build better relationships.

Wisdom can be defined as “the ability to discern what is true, right, or lasting.”

James 3:13 asks the question, “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.”

Verse 17 in that same chapter says, “Wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.”

Wisdom is a key element for thriving relationships that honor God.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com