Whatever You Do

Are you troubled by things you’ve done, by what you’ve said to people, or by what people have said to you? Are your words typically supportive, or do you find yourself often critical and hostile? 

Remember Colossians 3:17 says, “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the Name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks unto God and the Father by Him.” 

When you speak or act in a way that you know in your heart to be wrong, you pay for it with your emotions. You chip away at your own self respect. One of the most important principles that you can apply to your life is that your mental health is in your control. You are the one who must choose how you respond to individuals and situations in your life that are less than perfect. You might say, "If only this person would change, then all these wonderfully warm friendly qualities would be released in me." Not true. Nobody can cause you to be angry, stubborn, immovable, inflexible, and easily irritable. Your behavior is determined by your spirit, and your spirit involves you and God. It’s a unique relationship. It has nothing to do with anyone else.

Paul said in Romans 13:1, 2: “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers for there is no power but of God and the powers that are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resists the power resists the ordinance of God, and they that resist shall receive unto themselves damnation.”

The NIV puts it in a gentler way – “will bring judgment on themselves.” You see, your behavior makes a difference to you.

Don’t allow yourself to drift away from allowing the Lord to fill your heart with His Spirit day by day. Nobody can stop you from calling on God to fill you with His love, joy, peace, gentleness, kindness, and patience. Do what you’re doing and saying in His Name, as though He was right there with you. Let Him help you feel the relief of walking through life with a thankful spirit.

Again in Philippians 2:2-4 Paul tells us to, "Let nothing be done through strife or vain glory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem the other better than themselves."

Becoming pre-occupied with the negative qualities of anyone or anything in your life causes you to lose sight of good things. Jesus laid down His life for you. He has chosen to put the emphasis on your spiritual life. He has chosen to give you of His Spirit, and to make your burden light. He gives you the ability to honor him in all that you do and say.