Philippians 1:6-8

"And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. So it is right that I should feel as I do about all of you, for you have a special place in my heart. You share with me the special favor of God, both in my imprisonment and in defending and confirming the truth of the Good News. God knows how much I love you and long for you with the tender compassion of Christ Jesus." (Philippians 1:6-8)

These couple verses reminds me of a couple of things:
1: I am no where near ready for the Lord's coming
2: My journey with Him (Christ Jesus) is a truly lifelong transformation
3: Paul's love and care for others trumps mine every time

I realize I am not a perfect person! I mess up all the time, and I make mistakes. I believe that's part of being a human with a sinful nature. There are going to be times where I just mess up over and over and over again. But I know that I have God's forgiveness and grace! Judgement day is a tough one to think about. As I was reading some verses (Joel 2:11, Amos 5:18, Zephaniah 1:14) I got intimidated and scared. This is not a good state to be in because then I doubt myself and make myself cry or something! It is a wake up call for me, a major wake up call ! God could come in an hour if he wanted. Am I ready ? The answer is no! Half of me is worried about failing and not knowing if I will make it and the other half wants to live my life first: go to college, get married, have kids etc. Well I know my main concern and focus should be on my relationship with God so this verse reminds me of that.

My journey is different with every one's! I used to get frustrated because I compared my walk with Christ with other people's, and I noticed that isn't healthy. God isn't going to say well he is farther ahead of you so don't even try! God wants me to pursue him on a day-to-day basis, and I want that too!

When I think of Paul and his compassion for others, it just takes me away! I know that I must love people more than I have been doing! It is not something just to talk about but to put into action. The commentary I have for Philippians says: Christian love does not start with feelings. It is an act of will, of deciding to cultivate the attitude that desires the best for others and this is what makes it possible to command love. Wow! What a powerful statement! It reminds me that to love someone isn't just a feeling (that comes later) but having the attitude towards them to want to put them first!

**Jesus I come to you with open arms and a open heart! I seek to know you more and to love others as much as you love me! My focus has swayed a little bit and for that, I'm sorry! My eyes should fix itself on you and your word! I pray that you mold me and help me remind myself of your place in my life as #! Amen. **