Our dual battle between good and evil starts with the desires of our hearts and minds. (see James 1:14-15) When we act with goodness, we glorify God, and when we act on evil desires, we sin against God. Our actions show our hearts, so why not seek to better ourselves by embracing the mirror of reflection and growth and ask ourselves daily:

  • Are my actions demonstrating where I know my heart’s desire should be?
  • Am I proud of my actions?
  • Would Jesus be proud of my actions?
  • Did I reject temptation?

If the answer is “Yes,” you’re doing well. If your answer is “No,” remember that God forgives and then chooses to remember no more the sins of those who repent, pick up the cross, and follow Jesus according to His will and keep His commands. There is never a better time to change direction than the moment you realize you need to, and reflection helps you get there.

If bad habits have formed, replace them with good habits.

 “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Matthew 6:21

God’s word tells us how to focus our minds and hearts and overcome the temptation to sin. (Philippians 4:5-9)

References: Matthew 5:44; Matthew 5:16; Matthew 22:37–39; Hebrews 8:12; Matthew 6:21; Philippians 4:8; 2 Corinthians 13:5; Lamentations 3:40; Psalm 139:23–24; Romans 12:2; Luke 9:23; Acts 2:38; Romans 6:3–4; 1 John 1:9; Colossians 3:5–10; Proverbs 4:23; Matthew 15:18–19; John 14:15; Galatians 5:16–24; Ephesians 4:22–24; 1 Corinthians 11:28; Isaiah 43:25.

  • Hear the Gospel: Romans 10:17, John 8:32
  • Belief/Faith: – Hebrews 11:1, John 8:24, Romans 10:17, Acts 3:19
  • Repentance: – 2 Cor. 7:9-10, Luke 13:3-5, Acts 17:30
  • Confess: – Romans 10:9-10, Matthew 10:32-33, Luke 12:8-9
  • Baptism by immersion for the forgiveness of sin: – Matthew 16:15-16 1 Peter 3:21, Acts 2:38, Mark 16:16, John 3:5, Matt 28:18-20, Ephesians 4:5, Romans 6:3-4, Colossians 2:12, Acts 8:36-39, Mark 1:9-10, John 3:23

God First!