BE BOLD

Have you thanked Him?

Have you praised Him?

Have you made it your priority to agree and cooperate with Him today?

Have you taken that deep breath and listened for what He has for you today?

1 Timothy 2:1 (The Message)

The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know.

2 Timothy 1:7(AMP)

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].

Sometimes the best reminders come from unlikely sources.

I had not had the privilege of meeting Attorney General Beshear from Kentucky prior to yesterday.  But I am glad I did.

During his remarks to our crowd of 300 or so at the first ever TRI-STATE Faith-Leaders “Taking Back our Communities – Combatting the Opiate Epidemic” Conference in West Virginia, Andy referenced this passage of scripture.

With West Virginia number one for overdose death and Ohio number two we have our work cut out for us.  And what encouraged my heart was that while ALL THREE Attorney General’s were quick and courageous to stand with our faith leaders and ask for our help, it was Andy who BOLDLY said that we CAN begin to turn the tide on this epidemic BECAUSE of what this passage from Paul promises!

1.   As Christians, we don’t have to fear!  It is not in our spirit-nature!  So, we ALL can UNITE to FIGHT this fight with SUPERNATURAL courage!

2.   GOD has given each of us a sound mind, opportunities for good judgment and discipline and if we would link those gifts and talents together, this epidemic COULD NOT and WOULD not STAND.

3.   We are called to deal with this epidemic (and all things for that matter) with the LOVE and SELF-CONTROL given to us by GOD Himself.

And yes, while Andy was speaking in direct correlation to the challenge I speak of often here in the OFH, the opiate challenge, the passage has perfect relevance for each of us in our personal walks and our personal journeys today and everyday!

We CAN BE BOLD!

We CAN approach today emboldened by the LOVE of CHRIST.  

Therefore, don’t be timid in your faith.  Walk upright and courageously knowing that GOD is by your side that His Spirit is linked to your spirit and you are coursing with untapped potential and power!

We CAN allow GOD to infuse His good judgment into ours.

So, stay calm! Stay cool!

And finally, we CAN BOLDLY love without restraint. Our spirits have been given a full measure!

Friends we often wade into our days wearily or fearfully.  We let things like an overcrowded schedule or fear of failure keep us from BEING and DOING all we have been equipped and emboldened to do!

Let’s embrace the reminder from AG Breshear today!

Let’s approach today in strength and courage!  Let’s exercise our spirits for love and good judgment!

BE BOLD!

“The more we see ourselves as vibrant, successful, inspiring people who BOLDY declare and manifest GOD’S vision and promise, the more we become just that.”  - Adapted from Bowman

Have a blessed day.

I love you all.

OPPORTUNITIES for HOPE