There’s an App for That!

In these modern days with smart phones, tablets and laptop computers, one can find help performing almost any function necessary. Whether playing a game, utilizing a cell phone as a flashlight or calculator or any of hundreds of other functions for a mobile device, one can find an app for that.

The catchphrase, “There’s an app for that!” became popular as Apple computers began creating more and more applications available for their mobile devices. An app, or application, is a specialized program that has been created for specific purposes and can be downloaded to a cell phone, tablet or other mobile devices.

App stores, which can be accessed via mobile devices, contain a plethora of applications on all topics and for all uses. To enjoy one of these applications one must first choose an app store and search for the desired app. Once the app has been selected, it must then be downloaded to the device on which it will be used. After the downloading process is complete, the app can be opened and utilized at the owner’s will. All of these steps must be followed. A desired game may be available at the app store, but is of no use until one searches for and finds it. A cell phone may contain over 100 apps, but if only four or five are used, the others have very little benefit to the owner of the phone. These apps must be opened and used.

Scripture contains many, promises that are available to believers in Jesus Christ. For whatever situation that may arise in your life, there is a “Word from God” for that. God’s Word talks to every area of human existence and it is all available to us. Yet just because it is available does not mean that we will automatically have it active in our lives. There are some steps that must be followed to access and receive the benefits of these promises.

First of all, we must choose to receive the Word of God. The Bible is very much like an app store (but so much more) containing all we will ever need. “For His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that [are requisite and suited] to life and godliness, through the [full, personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue).” (2 Peter 1:3 AMP) Finding these promises will entail taking the time to hear, read and meditate on the Scriptures where these promises are found. David calls the man blessed of whom it is said, “But his delight and desire are in the law of the Lord, and on His law (the precepts, the instructions, the teachings of God) he habitually meditates (ponders and studies) by day and by night.” (Psalm 1:2 AMP) This may cause us to sacrifice some of the other things that we enjoy doing to create this time.

We can choose the verses upon which we will meditate according to the need in our lives. If our lives require peace, Scriptures on peace are what need to be studied. Forgiveness, hope, joy and any other need in our lives will have verses that apply God’s power. The process of studying these verses will plant them deep into our hearts. “Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 AMP) God’s truth brings God’s power and we must study to understand that truth so that we can apply it to our lives.

Once we have found Scriptures that apply to our life situations and we have studied to download them into our lives, we must put the Word into practice. The apostle James said, “But be doers of the Word [obey the message], and not merely listeners to it, betraying yourselves [into deception by reasoning contrary to the Truth].” (James 1:22 AMP) To not practice the directions given in the Bible is not only ineffective but also deceives. We must take the promises that have been downloaded into our hearts and put these promises into practice in our lives. This requires both faith (believing that God will do what He says He will do) and obedience (following the directions God gives). Through faith and obedience to the truth from God’s Word, we can walk in the benefits of God’s promises.

Whatever situation you face, “There is a Word for that!” So search and download a promise from God today. Put it into effect in your life by obeying all God calls you to do.

What Is in Your Closet?

The temperatures have dropped and although we are still far from the frigid weather of winter, I have found myself standing in front of the closet searching for my warmer clothing. Long sleeves and sweaters are the objects of the search. It’s time to bring out the matching layers that will ensure warmth and comfort during the months ahead.

Because we are aware of and prepared for the winter months to come, closets contain the appropriate clothing. It may cause placing some of the summer articles into drawers or boxes to make room for warmer apparel, but this clothing is available as needed. Warmer coats brought out and the lighter outerwear of spring and summer are put away for the next several months. This is simply a part of living in Wisconsin. One must be prepared for the weather of all four, distinct seasons.

We have a spiritual closet that we stand before each day, making very similar choices. What is the appropriate clothing to wear today? In Scripture we are given some very specific guidelines on how the believer is to dress. “Clothe yourselves therefore, as God's own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper].” (Colossians 3:12 AMP) These qualities, our spiritual articles of clothing, are provided for us because our relationship with Jesus. “For as many [of you] as were baptized into Christ [into a spiritual union and communion with Christ, the Anointed One, the Messiah] have put on (clothed yourselves with) Christ.” (Galatians 3:27 AMP)  

Upon arising we must take off our pajamas in order to put on our chosen apparel for the day. Likewise, we must also take off the garments that were worn when we were spiritually asleep and unaware of God’s provision and plan for us. “Strip yourselves of your former nature [put off and discard your old unrenewed self] which characterized your previous manner of life and becomes corrupt through lusts and desires that spring from delusion; And be constantly renewed in the spirit of your mind [having a fresh mental and spiritual attitude], And put on the new nature (the regenerate self) created in God's image, [Godlike] in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:22-24 AMP) Our natures are new and so is our clothing. “And have clothed yourselves with the new [spiritual self], which is [ever in the process of being] renewed and remolded into [fuller and more perfect knowledge upon] knowledge after the image (the likeness) of Him Who created It.” (Colossians 3:10 AMP) Our clothing perfectly complements the new character that is being molded daily.

As believers in Jesus Christ, we have been given entire new wardrobes from which to select our clothing. Old garments that represent our old ways of thinking has been replaced by our Heavenly Father. Regardless of any situation that we may find ourselves in, we can always turn from our old ways of reacting and put on these new garments. “To grant [consolation and joy] to those who mourn in Zion—to give them an ornament (a garland or diadem) of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, the garment [expressive] of praise instead of a heavy, burdened, and failing spirit…” (Isaiah 61:3a AMP) The layers of beauty, joy and praise create a beautifully coordinated outfit. We have been completely transformed and now have a new wardrobe from which to dress daily. “Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 AMP)

If there is one favorite item of clothing that should be worn over and over again it is love. “And above all these [put on] love and enfold yourselves with the bond of perfectness [which binds everything together completely in ideal harmony].” (Colossians 3:14 AMP) In order to fulfill all the commands of love God has also clothed us with power. “And behold, I will send forth upon you what My Father has promised; but remain in the city [Jerusalem] until you are clothed with power from on high.” (Luke 24:49 AMP) We have all we need to face every season of life.

Choose wisely what you wear today. Put on the qualities that reflect the new nature that God is continually developing and you.

The Gift Bag

Have you ever been the recipient of a gift bag containing a seemingly endless array of items? For a bride to be this bag may contain kitchen items such as small appliances, dishware and assorted gadgets. The expectant mother may receive blankets, clothing, toys and diapers. For a birthday one may receive items related to an interest or hobby. Because the items have been carefully chosen for the recipient, the benefits and thoughtfulness that accompany the items in these bags are invaluable.

The gift bag itself may be extravagantly decorated or of a very simple design. Sometimes the recipient may leave all of the items inside the bag for time. It can be heartwarming to look at the gift and contemplate the care and consideration exhibited by the selection of the items within. Looking at the bag can stir up a great appreciation for the giver. But in the end, the gift items contained within that bag only become valuable as they are taken out and utilized by the recipient.

Salvation is a gift that we have received from our Heavenly Father through His abundantly free-flowing grace. “For it is by free grace (God's unmerited favor) that you are saved (delivered from judgment and made partakers of Christ's salvation) through [your] faith. And this [salvation] is not of yourselves [of your own doing, it came not through your own striving], but it is the gift of God; Not because of works [not the fulfillment of the Law's demands], lest any man should boast. [It is not the result of what anyone can possibly do, so no one can pride himself in it or take glory to himself.]” (Ephesians 2:8-9 AMP) Often believers are aware of and trust these verses and the precious promise they contain. God has reconciled us to Himself through the sacrifice of His Own Son, Jesus. We have done nothing to earn this great gift. What may be mistaken is the idea that this gift of salvation is considered to be a one time, one item gift. As great as a security of knowing that by placing our faith in Jesus Christ, our eternal path has been changed and heaven is now our destination, salvation is so much more.

The salvation that God provides is not a one-time event. This salvation is the full, rich quality of life that Jesus promised. “The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).” (John 10:10 AMP) In order to receive the benefits of this abundant, overflowing life that the Lord has provided, we must open the gift bag and take each item out one at a time and to make use of it. Daily, we apply each gift and each promise in our walk with God. This is how we work out our salvation. “Therefore, my dear ones, as you have always obeyed [my suggestions], so now, not only [with the enthusiasm you would show] in my presence but much more because I am absent, work out (cultivate, carry out to the goal, and fully complete) your own salvation with reverence and awe and trembling (self-distrust, with serious caution, tenderness of conscience, watchfulness against temptation, timidly shrinking from whatever might offend God and discredit the name of Christ). [Not in your own strength] for it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and delight.” (Philippians 2:12-13 AMP) This is not a path of working hard for God. This is allowing the salvation that He has provided to change us from the inside out, one step at a time. God provides the power for this change.

Sometimes we may require some help starting to use what God has provided in the gift bag of salvation. The word of God is our greatest resource as we learn who we are and what we have been given. “Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you].” (Romans 12:2 AMP) God will graciously provide both instruction and assistance as we learn to walk this transformed life. “For His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that [are requisite and suited] to life and godliness, through the [full, personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue).”  (2 Peter 1:3 AMP) We simply choose to take what He has provided for us and learn to use it.

Do not leave the fullness of your salvation dormant in the gift bag the Lord provided to you the day you surrendered your life to Jesus Christ. Study the Scriptures and pull out every item that accompanied your new life, receiving and utilizing all that God has provided for you.

Release When Ready (Grapevine Lessons 2)

An unexpectedly early, light frost hit southeastern Wisconsin this year. Unfortunately, we had not been following the weather forecasts and did not properly prepare our grapevines to avoid the effect of the frost. The vines were left exposed to the elements that night.

Inspecting the vines after this frost, I found that some of the grapes had not survived but were now shriveled and brown. These grapes had been right and had stayed on the vine too long. They had been unable to survive the adversity brought on by the colder temperatures. Because of this, these grapes will not make it into the jelly that I will soon prepare.

Also on this vine were several other clusters of grapes that had not yet fully ripened before that cold evening. These grapes were still securely connected to the vine, even after the light frost. They were now turning that deep purple hue then indicates a perfectly ripened concord grape. Very soon these clusters would also be ready to be plucked from the vine to nourish others.

The difference between the fruit that rotted and the fruit that continued maturing with their stage in the ripening process. The fully ripened grapes were connected to the branch by thin strands. The branch had been preparing them to be plucked. Those grapes that were not yet ripe were held onto with a stronger connection to the branch. They still required more of the nourishment from the branch as they matured.

Gifts, callings and character that have not matured have a fruitless and even sour effect on others. (See Wait Until It Is Ripe! (Grapevine Lessons 1) posted Friday 10/23) These same gifts, callings and character, when they have been properly matured, must then be put to use. To remain inactive at the end of the growing season results in uselessness and eventually rottenness.

As branches connected to Jesus Christ, we will find that the time will come to use all of the abilities that He has placed within us. God determines the length of the growing season for each gift and calling in our lives. He also knows when our character has become developed enough to withstand the adversities that accompany following Him. The same Jesus Christ who said, ^“I am the Vine; you are the branches. Whoever lives in Me and I in him bears much (abundant) fruit. However, apart from Me [cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing.” (John 15:5 AMP) also gave many instructions calling His followers to action. Most notably among these instructions are to love, “I give you a new commandment: that you should love one another. Just as I have loved you, so you too should love one another.” (John 13:34 AMP) and to go tell others the good news. “And He said to them, Go into all the world and preach and publish openly the good news (the Gospel) to every creature [of the whole human race].” (Mark 16:15 AMP)

Followers of Jesus Christ who shrink back in fear or complacency greatly hinder the work of God’s kingdom in this earth. We cannot allow insecurity or laziness to prevent us from stepping out when the time is right. The Lord will provide the strength and ability for us to use all but He has been developing within us. “He has made everything beautiful in its time.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11a AMP) His perfect time is never too early, but it is also not too late. We have received gifts from the Holy Spirit for a purpose. “As each of you has received a gift (a particular spiritual talent, a gracious divine endowment), employ it for one another as [befits] good trustees of God's many-sided grace [faithful stewards of the extremely diverse powers and gifts granted to Christians by unmerited favor].” (1 Peter 4:10 AMP) God has developed strengths within us so that we may serve Him and others. “For you, brethren, were [indeed] called to freedom; only [do not let your] freedom be an incentive to your flesh and an opportunity or excuse [for selfishness], but through love you should serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13 AMP) We must move when He directs.

Are there things that we have prayed for and believed to be a part of God’s purpose for our lives? Let us be ever ready to move at the right time. “For He says, In the time of favor (of an assured welcome) I have listened to and heeded your call, and I have helped you on the day of deliverance (the day of salvation). Behold, now is truly the time for a gracious welcome and acceptance [of you from God]; behold, now is the day of salvation!” (2 Corinthians 6:2 AMP) We can know when the time is now by listening to the Holy Spirit. He will direct us as we walk forward showing us the time and the way. “And your ears will hear a word behind you, saying, This is the way; walk in it, when you turn to the right hand and when you turn to the left.” (Isaiah 30:21 AMP)

Just as when we are waiting for God’s timing we can hold on to these promises when the time comes to move. “When you bear (produce) much fruit, My Father is honored and glorified, and you show and prove yourselves to be true followers of Mine.” (John 15:8 AMP) We will please Him by stepping forward at His voice. We can confidently move forward because, “As for God, His way is perfect! The word of the Lord is tested and tried; He is a shield to all those who take refuge and put their trust in Him.” (Psalm 18:30 AMP)

If the Holy Spirit is urging you to use the gifts and talents you possess, do not hold back. Do not allow any to rot on the vine. Follow the voice of God and step out today.

Wait Until It Is Ripe! (Grapevine Lessons 1)

Climbing up a trellis that spans the side of our garage, is a beautiful grapevine. This is the second year that we have had fruit on the vine to be enjoyed. As the large clusters of grapes formed, they took on a luscious, green appearance. For some reason I could not remember whether our grapevine produced green or concord grapes. I also could not remember the length of the growing season in which our grapes mature. Because of this, I found myself checking every couple weeks to see how the grapes tasted. This was my pathetic method of determining the fruit’s ripeness.
This continual tasting led to several opportunities for the instant pucker of sour grapes. When the full growing season had finally come to an end, our grapes where a deep, luscious purple with an equally rich, sweet flavor. Allowing the fruit to ripen to its term, before plucking it from the vine, would have prevented these episodes of unpleasant tastings.

Jesus Christ said, ^“I am the Vine; you are the branches. Whoever lives in Me and I in him bears much (abundant) fruit. However, apart from Me [cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing.” (John 15:5 AMP) It is imperative that we stay connected to Jesus at all times. This is the only way that we can produce fruit that can nourish those around us. This fruit has been placed in us by the Holy Spirit. ^“But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness, gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [that can bring a charge].” (Galatians 5:22-23 AMP) As this fruit grows and matures through our connectedness with Jesus, it will ripen to be a sweet blessing to those around us.

Are we ever impatient about what God is doing in our lives? Do we try to pick some of the fruit before its time? God knows the exact time needed for our character to develop into sweet nourishment. He knows exactly when we will be ready to step out new areas. We must not rush it, always remembering, “As for God, His way is perfect! The word of the Lord is tested and tried; He is a shield to all those who take refuge and put their trust in Him.” (Psalm 18:30 AMP) We also have the promise that “He has made everything beautiful in its time.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11a AMP)

Circumstances often look right even when they may not be. Although we may have accurately seen God working in our lives, providing growth and preparing us for work that is ahead, we may misinterpret His timing. Often we want to run ahead with that work before the preparation has been completed. So similar in appearance to the sweet, green grapes available at the grocery store, the beautiful grapes on our vine were far from ready. They were not even close to the intended color or taste of maturity. All of the nutritional value was packed within the grape, yet it would not be received because it was not ready. The same can be true of the work of God in believers. We may believe that our lives look just like those of another when we see God using in ways that we aspire to. Yet God has far more developing and mature plant for our lives before we are ready to step out. If we do not wait for the fruit of our character to develop, our actions may be sour.

Patience is critical in the maturing process. Our desire to work for Him is good, but we must be willing to wait for His timing. There is a proper growing season and we cannot rush it. We must wait until the time is right. “I waited patiently and expectantly for the Lord; and He inclined to me and heard my cry.” (Psalm 40:1 AMP) God will not merely hear your cry but will abundantly respond with all that is needed for growth. “For His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that [are requisite and suited] to life and godliness, through the [full, personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue).” (2 Peter 1:3 AMP) It pleases God to see His children grow to maturity. Jesus tells us, “When you bear (produce) much fruit, My Father is honored and glorified, and you show and prove yourselves to be true followers of Mine.” (John 15:8 AMP)

Do not be in a hurry and rush ahead of God. The results are never good and leave a very unpleasant taste in the mouth of those we had hoped to inspire and help. Allow God to do his complete work in order that we provide all the blessings He has intended.

How Is the Lighting?

When I was young, my mother often scolded me for studying with inadequate light. As daylight turned to dusk she could often be heard saying, “Turn the light on. You will ruin your eyes!” As the sun had dropped beneath the horizon and the light had gradually dimmed, my eyes had adjusted and the change had been nearly imperceptible until it was quite dark.

Mom’s words have come to mind recently as I sat in a dimly lit room reading a document in which several passages had been highlighted in yellow for emphasis. In a brightly lit setting, the words of these highlighted passages would practically jump off the page. Here, in this dimness, it was difficult to even detect any difference between the highlighted sections and the non-highlighted passages. The emphasis of the highlighting was nearly lost because of the poor lighting.

How often do we fail to see what is being highlighted in our spirits because we are seeing in a spiritually dim light? Distractions of daily life hit the dimmer switch over and over again. With each distraction the light is decreased a little bit more until finally we find it difficult to understand what God is trying to highlight in our lives. As the light slowly dims, we can often be unaware of the change because it is so gradual. Our spiritual eyes adjust to the lessening light and we do not realize what has come between and blocked a portion of the light of Jesus are shining into our hearts.

Jesus is the true light. “... He said, I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me will not be walking in the dark, but will have the Light which is Life. (John 8:12 AMP) Jesus is also is known as the Word of God. “In the beginning [before all time] was the Word (Christ), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God Himself. He was present originally with God. All things were made and came into existence through Him; and without Him was not even one thing made that has come into being. In Him was Life, and the Life was the Light of men.” (John 1:1-4 AMP) It is through our relationship with Jesus Christ that we can receive the light and see clearly.

 Not only does Jesus give us lights, but He has also sent the Holy Spirit to bring the highlighter of conviction to us. “However, I am telling you nothing but the truth when I say it is profitable (good, expedient, advantageous) for you that I go away. Because if I do not go away, the Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, Standby) will not come to you [into close fellowship with you]; but if I go away, I will send Him to you [to be in close fellowship with you]. And when He comes, He will convict and convince the world and bring demonstration to it about sin and about righteousness (uprightness of heart and right standing with God) and about judgment.” (John 16:7-8 AMP) The Holy Spirit highlights both sin and righteousness in our lives. When we receive this conviction we have the opportunity to act on what is being highlighted in our hearts. Sin can be turned away from and the righteous path can be followed with renewed confidence.

 Reading and studying the Scriptures opens us up to receive light. “The entrance and unfolding of Your words give light; their unfolding gives understanding (discernment and comprehension) to the simple.” (Psalm 119:130 AMP) As we study the light brightens and each highlighted portion of our lives becomes clear. The path we are to follow will also become clear. “But the path of the [uncompromisingly] just and righteous is like the light of dawn, that shines more and more (brighter and clearer) until [it reaches its full strength and glory in] the perfect day [to be prepared].” (Proverbs 4:18 AMP)

We also find that the family of God is to walk together in the light. “But if we [really] are living and walking in the Light, as He [Himself] is in the Light, we have [true, unbroken] fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses (removes) us from all sin and guilt [keeps us cleansed from sin in all its forms and manifestations].” (1 John 1:7 AMP) God will often use a fellow believer to provide direction and even correction that may be needed in us. We can welcome this form of His highlighter pen on a page of our lives

So turn the light up by spending time in God’s word and walking closely in a relationship with Jesus Christ. Do not let any distraction dim the light. Then, when the Holy Spirit highlights something in your heart, you will see it clearly.

Be a Baymax Believer!

In the popular animated children’s movie “Big Hero 6” there is a great character by the name of a Baymax. Baymax is a large robot that has been created to be a personal healthcare assistant. Made of vinyl with an appearance similar to a giant marshmallow with legs, he is actually a highly, sophisticated machine with thr ability to lift over 1000 pounds.

As a personal healthcare assistant, Baymax is activated by any word denoting physical discomfort or injury. He responds immediately to a simple utterance of “ow” that escapes a young man’s mouth when tape is pulled from his arm. After introducing himself to this boy named Hiro, Baymax asks, “On a scale of 1 to 10, how much pain are you in?” Baymax then performs an accurate scan of young Hiro’s physical condition and applies medical treatment to his arm.

This encounter can only end when the young patient has received proper care. Baymax states, “I can only deactivate once you are satisfied with my care. Are you satisfied with the care you have received?” Once Baymax has been deactivated, Hiro’s brother states, “He is going to help a lot of people!”

All followers of Jesus Christ are called, like Baymax, to be spiritual health care assistants. We have not been placed in this world to simply live out our own lives. We have been gifted by and called of God to reach out to all who are in need. As Christians we are to love and care for each other. “Love one another with brotherly affection [as members of one family], giving precedence and showing honor to one another.” (Romans 12:10 AMP) This love always requires looking to what another may need. “Let each of you esteem and look upon and be concerned for not [merely] his own interests, but also each for the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:4 AMP)

Often, it will be important to sincerely inquire as to how someone is feeling. We may need to ascertain on that scale of 1 to 10, just how much pain someone is truly in. Life can be hard and at times every one of us will come to a place where we need the help of our brothers and sisters in Christ. Unfortunately, many find it difficult to ask for, or even acknowledge, the hurt and need inside. Yet when one of us hurts we all hurt.

As a Baymax believer we are called to, “Bear (endure, carry) one another's burdens and troublesome moral faults, and in this way fulfill and observe perfectly the law of Christ (the Messiah) and complete what is lacking [in your obedience to it].” (Galatians 6:2 AMP) This can be accomplished by willingly and actively seeking to be a blessing to someone else. “… the members all alike should have a mutual interest in and care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the parts [share] the suffering; if one member is honored, all the members [share in] the enjoyment of it.” (1 Corinthians 12:25-26 AMP) We must look at the surface conditions in someone’s life and then scan further to find the hidden hurts that are longing to be healed.

A large, marshmallowy creature does not appear to be either strong or capable of bringing healing. But the complex design of the computer within Baymax’s fluffy façade was more than able to handle what came its way. Likewise, we may not feel that we have what is necessary to bring healing to another. But God has placed within us everything that we need to work out His will. It is Almighty God who equips us through Jesus Christ. “Now may the God of peace [Who is the Author and the Giver of peace], Who brought again from among the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, by the blood [that sealed, ratified] the everlasting agreement (covenant, testament), Strengthen (complete, perfect) and make you what you ought to be and equip you with everything good that you may carry out His will; [while He Himself] works in you and accomplishes that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ (the Messiah); to Whom be the glory forever and ever (to the ages of the ages). Amen (so be it).” (Hebrews 13:20-21 AMP) We have received gifts and talents to accomplish all He puts in our path. “As each of you has received a gift (a particular spiritual talent, a gracious divine endowment), employ it for one another as [befits] good trustees of God's many-sided grace [faithful stewards of the extremely diverse powers and gifts granted to Christians by unmerited favor].” (1 Peter 4:10 AMP) We must use them well

Everything that we have experienced in life is a part of the preparation that has taken place in us. God will use not only the gifts and talents, but also our past experiences to uniquely us to care for others. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of sympathy (pity and mercy) and the God [Who is the Source] of every comfort (consolation and encouragement), Who comforts (consoles and encourages) us in every trouble (calamity and affliction), so that we may also be able to comfort (console and encourage) those who are in any kind of trouble or distress, with the comfort (consolation and encouragement) with which we ourselves are comforted (consoled and encouraged) by God.” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4 AMP) He has comforted, encouraged and strengthened us. Now we are to comfort, encourage and strengthen others.

So make a decision to be a Baymax believer. Always be on the lookout for someone that you can bring healing to and refuse to quit until they can truly say that they are satisfied with the care they had received. Be faithful and you will help a lot of people.