Matthew 18:4 "Whoever becomes simple and elemental again, like this child, will rank high in God's kingdom" God loves you the way you are, the way He created you. You don't have to be anything more. Often times in this life we spend too much time trying to impress the world around us, seeking earthly acceptance, being something we're not. But there is no need for that. God loves you for who and what you are. And the people of this earth, your true loved ones, they love you for your genuine self as well. So, the next time you find yourself trying to fit in and seeking acceptance ask yourself "Is this who I am supposed to be?". If the answer is no resist the temptation for acceptance and instead listen to the voice in your heart. The voice of your Creator. The closest relationship you have ever had and will ever have. He has been with you every moment of your life. Every beat of your heart, every breath you have ever taken. He created you, He loves you, He accepts you just the way you are. He wants you to be yourself, your simple, genuine self.

Romans 13:13-14 "We can't afford to waste a minute, must not squander these precious daylight hours in frivolity and indulgence...Don't loiter and linger, waiting until the very last minute. Dress yourself in Christ, and be up and about!" Do you find yourself procrastinating? I know I do from time to time. Especially in doing those things that are not appealing or seem challenging. At the same time I admire those that seem to "get things done". Especially when those things are what most other people seem to avoid doing. Jesus was like that. He was very active in His life bringing about a great change in people and the world. We as Christians, and by Paul's words in today's verse, are called to do the same. To live with a purpose and passion. To be Christ-like in our days, living with an energy that brings about love and joy to this world. It can be difficult work, scary at times. But we mustn't put it off or procrastinate. It is important work to accomplish and we have that work to do.

Philippians 3:13-14 "Brothers and sisters, I myself don't think I've reached it, but I do this one thing: I forget about the things behind me and reach out for the things ahead of me. the goal I pursue is the prize of God's upward call in Christ Jesus" One our most amazing human characters is our desire for purpose and pursuit. We pursue many things throughout our lives but this reading talks to us about the ultimate pursuit. The call, God's call, to Jesus. You see He served as an example for us as to how to live. It may seem like a daunting pursuit, a goal we know we will never reach, at least not in this life, but it is a worthy pursuit none the less. You see, the pursuit of perfection is Our Father's design, He calls us to righteousness. He calls us to build His kingdom through our works and pursuits and to glorify Him in the process.

John 3:16 "For God loved the world in this way: He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life" God loves you - His love for you is so great that He sent His only Son to this earth to die for your sins and to offer you the priceless gift of eternal life! Now, it is up to you to decide whether or not to accept God's gift. He offers it freely. Will you invite Christ to dwell in your heart? The decision is yours each and every day so choose wisely.

Ephesians 6:7 "Do your work with enthusiasm. Work as if you were serving the Lord, not as if you were serving only men and women." Do you see each day as a glorious opportunity to serve God and to do His will? Are you enthused about life, or do you struggle through each day giving scarcely a thought to God's blessings? Are you constantly praising God for His gifts, and are you sharing His Good News with the world? and are you excited about the possibilities for service that God has placed before you, whether at home, at work, at church, or at school? You should be. You are the recipient of the greatest gift of all, LOVE. And that gift is meant to be shared.

2 Corinthians 7:6 "God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us." If you have ever been touched by the transforming hand of Jesus, you have every reason to live courageously. Still, even as a dedicated Christian, you may find yourself discouraged by the inevitable disappointments and tragedies that occur in our lives. The next time you find your courage tested to the limit, lean upon God's promises. Trust His Son. Remember that God is always near and that He is your protector and your deliverer. When you are worried, anxious, or afraid, call upon Him and accept the touch of His comforting hand. Remember that God rules both mountaintops and valleys - with limitless wisdom and love - now and forever.

Romans 12:2 "Don't be conformed to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds so that you can figure out what God's will is - what is good and pleasing and mature" We are constantly given signs by the divine about the direction of our lives if we are only open to receiving them. They are different for each of us but are all important nonetheless. Our individual paths are designed according to the gifts that have been planted in us by our Heavenly Father. And those gifts are meant to be shared and feed the world around us.

Philippians 2:13 "for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose" "For it is God who works in you", what an amazing thought to think that God is within us. But it's true, He is. As our Creator, His spirit resides in us. And perhaps what's even more amazing is the fact that He works through us to fulfill His good purpose. You see as His children, as His instruments, to build His kingdom here on earth, we are blessed with a good purpose. And although we are sometimes distracted by the "noise" of this life, if we quiet ourselves and listen to that small quiet voice within, we can find direction. It is only when we stray and fight that inner connection with our Heavenly Father that we lose.

Proverbs 10:21 "The lips of the righteous fee many" Here's a simple yet effective way to strengthen your faith; Choose role models whos faith in God is strong. When we emulate godly people, we become a more godly person ourselves. That's why we should seek mentors who, by their words and their presence, make you a better person and a better Christian. Today, as a gift to yourself, select from your friends and family, a mentor whose judgement you trust. Then listen carefully to their advice, even if accepting it requires effort or pain, or both. Consider your mentor to be God's gift to you. Thank God for that gift, and use it for the glory of His kingdom.

Proverbs 15:13 "A happy heart makes the face cheerful" laughter is God's gift, and He intends that we enjoy it. Yet, sometimes, because of the inevitable stresses of everyday life, laughter seems only a distant memory. As Christians, we have every reason to be cheerful and to be thankful. Our blessings from God are beyond measure, starting of course, with a gift that is ours for the asking, God's gift of salvation through Jesus. Few things in life are more absurd than the life of an unhappy Christian. So today, as you go about your daily activities, approach life with a grin and a chuckle. After all, God created laughter for reason, so use it.