Standing Firm

I grew up in the country side of Kentucky. I grew up in an era where your word and a hand shake were as good as a written contract. Things are a bit different now. If it isn’t in writing, it’s probably not going to happen. I grew up with values of hard work, honesty and integrity. I was like any other kid who pushed the boundaries of each of these areas only to have my parents and grandparents snap be back in line. I believe values are caught instead of taught. I learned the values of hard work, honesty & integrity from my family. I also learned over the years that most of the values instilled in me from a young kid are clearly taught in God’s Word. These are values that the Lord loves too. Check out David’s perspective…..

¹ Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord?
    Who may enter your presence on your holy hill?
² Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right,
    speaking the truth from sincere hearts.
³ Those who refuse to gossip
    or harm their neighbors
    or speak evil of their friends.
⁴ Those who despise flagrant sinners,
    and honor the faithful followers of the Lord,
    and keep their promises even when it hurts.
⁵ Those who lend money without charging interest,
    and who cannot be bribed to lie about the innocent.
Such people will stand firm forever. (Psalm 15:1-5 NLT)

I’ve been tempted many times to chunk my faith and my values. I keep being reminded of the abundant life the Lord promised as well as the eternal life that waits my arrival. I want to live for Him today and every day. I want to stand firm in my faith even if it costs me money, time or friends. I want to be known for being honest, dependable and a trusted friend.  I want my faith in the Lord to continue to grow and expand as I keep walking with Him. I’m learning that if I want what He wants, then my wants are so tempting. I’m learning that to stand firm in my faith requires small, simple choices to choose the right actions and activities each day. One day, I can look back at my journey with Him and be thankful for the journey.

Pressing On!

Dwayne