like Jesus – Garden Faith

Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. – Ephesians 4:2 (NLT)

In this verse, Paul explains how to live in a way that honors God. He is urging believers to turn away from their prior lifestyles and embrace a new Christian lifestyle. As followers of Christ, we are encouraged to emulate Jesus. Jesus lived a humble life He was born in a manger, entered Jerusalem on a donkey, and acted like a servant washing His disciples’ feet. He extends grace and mercy to all, regardless of social standing. We need to follow Jesus, set aside our pride, be gentle, and humbly serve others.

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. – Matthew 11:29

Jesus exhibits gentleness. He treats people with compassion, forgiveness, and love. He shows kindness to sinners, heals the sick, and treats people with respect and love.

As Christians, we learn to follow Christ’s example by being humble, and gentle, serving others, and treating everyone with compassion and love.

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Prayer: Our Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your mercy and grace. Help us to become more Jesus-like in our actions. Teach us to act humbly and be gentle in our actions. Like the petunia blossoms are open to the sun, let us blossom in faith and be open-hearted, following Your Son. In Jesus’ name. Amen

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For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing even to the point of dividing soul from spirit, and joints from marrow; it is able to judge the desires and thoughts of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12 (NET)

The word of God is living and active; by it, we learn the true will of God. The word of God is more than printed words; He speaks to us through the Holy Spirit, prophets, and by the eternal Word of God, Jesus.

The word of God is sharper than any double-edged sword; the word of God can discern between spirit and soul. Like a double-edged sword, the word of God can penetrate a person’s heart to expose the good and evil within. God can detect hypocrites and self-deceivers.

But he (Jesus) said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”
Luke 11:28

Following the word of God is a lifelong process of discerning, listening, and obeying, of leaving our old life behind and becoming new in the likeness of Jesus.

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God’s word is alive and sharper than a double-edged sword. It’s a way God communicates with us, are you taking time to listen?

Prayer: Our Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your living and active Word. Teach us to be open and obedient to Your will. Your Word is powerful; may it lead us to be more like Jesus. Like the bright blossoms of the tropical milkweed plant glow in the sunlight, may we blossom in Your Word and glow with Your holy light. In Jesus’ holy name. Amen

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