Today’s Readings:
2Sam. 7:4-5,12-14,16;
Ps 89:2-5,27,29;
Rom. 4:13,16-18,22;
Matt 1:16,18-21,24
WHEN LISTING THE QUALITIES OF AN IDEAL MAN, do we still include “God-fearing”? Do we even know what it means to be God-fearing? The expression God-fearing is another way of stating “the fear of the Lord” which is a gift of the Holy Spirit. It means “awe or profound respect”. It does not mean literal fear of God's power but an awe and respect for the absolute majesty of God. We should “fear” offending God not because of His just punishment but because he is all good and deserving of our love. The fear of the Lord is so fundamental in our relationship with God and with one another. From the way a person relates with you, you can tell if they are possessed by the fear of God.
A God-fearing person is:
Obedient to God’s command;
Treats others with dignity and respect;
Is hard-working and dedicated;
Is faithful and responsible;
Tells the truth and never deceives;
Is compassionate and not selfish;
Is prayerful and humble;
Does not take advantage of the weak because of his or her strength;
Protects the good name and reputation of others;
Capable of keeping secrets and is trustworthy;
Always does the will of God and not their own.
BY THE FRUITS YOU BEAR, people can tell the kind of person you are (Matthew 7:16-20). Are you bearing good fruits? Can others look at your life and say that you are God-fearing? Even if no one knows your true identity, remember that nothing is hidden from the eyes of God. Live your life in a way that pleases Him, and there is assurance of a reward for your goodness. Your goodness shall be spoken of long after you have left this world and your name shall be written forever in the Book of Life. Choose to be God-fearing this week and always.
JUDE MARY OWOH
Prayer:
I love You, O Lord, my strength.
Thank You Lord because all that I have and all that I am is a gift from You.
O Lord help me to do everything from a motive of pure love of You, in Jesus name.
Father Lord, never permit me to sin against You or offend my neighbour, in Jesus name.
O Lord visit Christian homes and marriages with Your mercy and love, in Jesus name.
By Your mighty power, Lord uproot everything You have not planted in Your Church and revive Your work, in Jesus name.
O Lord, use the situation in our nation to populate your kingdom, in Jesus name.
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