Discernment is a powerful tool for guiding our decisions and choices. In our world, there exists both good and bad. James 1:17(NLT) tells us: “Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.” In contrast, Jesus Christ teaches in John 10:10 that the devil is a thief who seeks to steal, kill, and destroy. Every negative, dark, evil, and destructive element finds its root in satan. By applying the wisdom of God’s Word, we can sharpen our discernment regarding the origin of every circumstance, encounter, and experience in our lives. This understanding enables us to differentiate what comes from God and what comes from satan, empowering us to make informed choices about whom we will serve.
The directive from our Heavenly Father in Ephesians 4:30-32 (NLT) states: “30 And do not bring sorrow to God's Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”
God’s directive in this passage is extremely meaningful and impactful to our lives. He imparts wisdom that guides us to cultivate a life of love and light, following the example of Jesus Christ. Through His Word, we understand that bad stuff—negative emotions, attitudes, behaviors, and actions—are rooted in darkness, the realm of evil. If we participate in things that have their root in satan, we are opening ourselves to trouble. Therefore, we face a choice: either we embody the ugliness we feel or get rid of the bad stuff like anger and bitterness.
To feel better about our lives and ourselves, we can seek God’s forgiveness, forgive ourselves, and extend forgiveness to those that have caused us pain. This process allows us to experience the peace and healing of Christ and move forward positively in God’s love by accepting the comfort that He offers to each of us.
In 2 Corinthians 1:4-7 (NLT), our Heavenly Father assures believers, through the Apostle Paul, of His provision of comfort and healing as we deal with heartbreak, trouble, and challenges: “4 He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 5 For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. 6 Even when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation! For when we ourselves are comforted, we will certainly comfort you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer. 7 We are confident that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in the comfort God gives us.”
The more we endure for Christ, the more of God's comfort we experience through our blessed Lord. Even when we're weighed down by troubles, ultimately, it can benefit the comfort and salvation of others. When we receive God's comfort, we're better equipped to comfort those around us, helping them endure their own challenges. We experience a very special aspect of unity in Christ this way, understanding that this Christian journey is a shared one, where we find strength and encouragement in him together.
Discomfort and pain are not meant to be our norm. So, we must never allow our negative feelings to dictate our spiritual journey with God. If we have strayed from the path He intended for us, our circumstances often make us uncomfortable to show us the need for a course correction. Therefore, pain, mixed emotions, and feeling bad should serve as warning signs that prompt us to pursue the light and love of positive change through Christ.
When we linger too long in darkness, our circumstances can become toxic and unbearable. 2 Corinthians 7:9 encourages us that this discomfort should compel us to repent and change our ways. In other words, we must take responsibility for motivating ourselves to make necessary changes by seeking God’s Will and following His Word.
Our loving Heavenly Father desires for us to know joy, love, and success in life. Yet, He also recognizes that achieving these blessings often involves enduring challenging circumstances and embracing necessary changes. While adjusting to new routines can be tough, resisting change can prompt life to intervene and shift our perspective. This isn't the end of the story; rather, it marks the beginning of a new chapter!
Through our victory in Christ, we are equipped to navigate hardships without succumbing to bitterness, anger, jealousy, or any other negative influences. When we set our sights on this goal, we consistently emerge victorious and transformed according to God’s plan and purpose for our lives. His guidance leads us toward a life filled with fulfillment and spiritual growth. ■
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.
“Get Rid of the Bad Stuff”, written by Kim for https://rescuefromdomesticviolence.blogspot.com© 2024. All rights reserved. All praise and honor to God through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.
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