~ Inspiration to Perspiration ! ~

My grandfathers were both gardeners and so are many of my friends. I love visiting beautiful gardens - they inspire me. They make me want to create something equally beautiful in my own yard. But I have trouble moving from the inspiration to the perspiration part of gardening. My great ideas don't spend the time and energy to make them happen.



THIS can be true in our spiritual lives as well. We can listen to the testimonies of other people and marvel at the work God is doing in their lives. We can hear uplifting music and great preaching and feel inspired to follow God more diligently. BUT soon after we walk out of church, we have trouble finding the time or making the effort to follow through.



James described such Christians as being like those who look in a mirror, see themselves, but do nothing to fix what is wrong (James 1: 23-24). They hear the Word, but it doesn't lead to action. James says we need to do - not just hear.



When we move from the inspiration of simply "hearing" about the good being done by others to the perspiration of actually "doing" good works ourselves, the implanted Word of God (1:21) will bloom into a beautiful garden of spiritual fruit. - Julie Ackerman Link.



"Be doers of the Word, and not hearers only." - James 1:22



"I'd rather see a Christian

Than to hear one merely talk;

I'd rather see his actions

And behold his daily walk." - Herrell



Life works best when we do.

COMMUNICATION !

"Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures" (Luke 24:45).

"THE mind is the organ of intelligence, purpose, understanding, opinion, choice and reason. IT is able to receive and understand news, facts and information.

IN today's world there are books, newspapers, TV, radio and schools of learning - all vying for our attention. THERE are people and programs and publications ready to fill our minds with their ideas and thoughts. AS Christians we have been given new minds to understand the Scriptures. We must, therefore, always guard against becoming dull, sluggish or lulled into insensitivity about truths and issues that are vital to our new life in Christ. WE must always be alert!

LIFE is short. IT drifts by like a mist. WE do not know what will take place tomorrow. WE need to walk carefully, giving ourselves fully to the work of the Lord. BECAUSE our adversary, Satan, is always on the alert and ready to put us out of commission, we must always be clothed with the protective armor of God.

WE do not know when Jesus will return. He has told us to be alert so that we are ready to meet Him. CONSTANT communion/communication with our Lord WILL keep us close to Him. Intercession makes us aware of others. Petition supplies our needs. LET US be alert and clear-minded so that we will know how to pray, and OUR prayers will be both powerful and effective.

OUR new life in Christ came to us at great cost. SHALL we not guard it with alert and watchful minds?" (SVEA HENRY)