Today’s landscape tends to reward visibility, performance, and loudness. Even in the Church, we often engage in scenarios that cultivate performative behavior. Social media tends to touch that reward of visibility even in the absence of our “real life” presence. I remember a specific moment not long ago: I caught myself pausing before posting a photo online, tweaking the caption over and over, thinking about what would get the most likes or admiration. In that moment, it was not about sharing something meaningful—it was about chasing applause. How many of us have dipped our toes, or even drowned, in the waves of curated profiles and attention-seeking behavior?

This pull to prove ourselves is not limited to social media. It shows up in group chats, where there’s subtle pressure to reply with something witty or impressive to maintain a certain image. It’s present on dating apps, where the temptation is to present a polished version of ourselves or measure our worth by the number of matches and messages we receive. Even in church volunteering or ministry meetings, it’s easy to get caught up in who is seen as “most committed” or who gets recognized for serving. These everyday moments remind us that the desire for approval and the struggle with performative habits can seep into nearly every area of our lives.

Dating, another sector of consideration, puts us in a position where charm is the golden standard and doing things right is applauded over authenticity. If we observe those in positions of leadership and power, we see that loud voices and actions, in both literal and figurative senses, are weighted more heavily than the wisdom that whispers. Our culture doesn’t always pay proper attention to alternative voices that don’t put on that extra flash. The superior ideas can go unnoticed. Meanwhile, those evoked with the greatest confidence garner the majority of the attention and acceptance.

To make this tension clear, here’s a side-by-side look at the world’s metrics versus the values of God’s kingdom:

Worldly Metrics:

• Charm and surface charisma
• Loudness and self-promotion
• Quick results and instant approval
• Applause from the crowd
• Flashy displays of success

Kingdom Metrics:

• Wisdom that whispers quietly
• Authenticity and humility
• Steadfastness and faithfulness over time
• Seeking God’s approval above all
• Serving without needing recognition

The contrast is sharp: what draws acclaim in the world often runs opposite to what pleases God.

God’s kingdom doesn’t work the same way. Instead of attempting to delight mankind, we operate in an attempt to delight our Maker (Galatians 1:10). If God is our ultimate audience, why do so many of us care excessively about what others think? Isn’t it our focus and duty as believers to pursue God’s blessing over slavery to the whims of people’s emotions (John 5:44)?

Take a moment to reflect: Can you recall a recent situation where you found yourself seeking approval from others, whether at work, in a relationship, or even on social media? What motivated you in that moment, and how might things have been different if your primary focus had been on pleasing God instead of people? Allowing yourself to honestly answer these questions can reveal areas where you still feel the pull to prove, and help you invite God’s grace to transform your perspective.

For example, some of us fall into the trap of talking ourselves up and placing unnecessary pressure upon ourselves. In an attempt to look better in the eyes of man, we’re expending unnecessary energy trying to impress people (Proverbs 27:2). We need to catch these moments and remember that we’re not called to market ourselves. If someone genuinely doesn’t appreciate your value, ask yourself why you are seeking their approval or validation. When God’s approval settles you, human applause loses urgency (2 Timothy 2:14-16). 

Granted, I am not saying that you turn down words of encouragement, affirmation, or admiration from your loved ones and peers. What I will suggest is not allowing their praise to determine the way you view your own self-worth or think you have fallen short because someone’s criticism of you got under your skin.

Quiet confidence isn’t…

There are a few considerations that I will emphasize to make sure we’re on the same page. Quiet confidence isn’t a proliferation of passivity, timidity, insecurity, or fear in your life. It’s when our strength is based on the joy of the Lord over man’s applause. It’s facing rejection, embracing it as part of God’s path for you, and pivoting forward with grace. Don’t let it define you; take it at face value and move on. 

Maybe you were denied a job opportunity. Perhaps you weren’t approved for the loan you needed to secure your dream home. It’s possible that you tried to initiate a connection with someone, but they didn’t perceive the same alignment you did. In these moments, you might immediately feel the sting of disappointment, a wave of relief, or even a quiet peace settling in as you let go of what was not meant for you. It is completely normal to feel confused, hurt, or even frustrated when things don’t work out the way you hoped. These emotional struggles are part of what it means to be human, and you are not alone in feeling this way. No matter what the catalyst, our position should remain steadfast. We must stay focused on the things of the Lord and remember that sometimes faith requires action, and that making a decision is the only way you’ll get the clarity you desire to move forward.

God doesn’t want us to sit back and remain paralyzed by fear. It’s important to know when it’s time to restrain our strength and distinguish the other times when making the move has merit. None of us does this dance perfectly, and everyone has their perception of what constitutes victory. The key is that we continue to walk according to God’s guidance and accept His leadership, adapting to the circumstances we face with humility. 

How can I embody this quiet confidence and stop striving to prove myself?

True freedom doesn’t come from the freedom to sin at will. It comes from acknowledging that we’re free to obey God because Jesus Christ has set us free from slavery to sin. God already accepted us as we are, so we don’t need to keep performing to earn more approval. The debt of our sins was paid by Jesus Christ on the cross, once and for all. Now, as a believer, you can walk in that victory knowing that He has justified you before God the Father. Now we trust God’s provision to help us navigate life in wisdom because we know that without complete reliance on Him, we are lost, but with Him we are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37).

Keep in mind that this isn’t the end of our journey. Now our mission, alongside the lead of the Holy Spirit, is to become more like Jesus Christ over our lifetimes. The sanctification process means that, step by step, God is guiding us toward that goal. So if you catch yourself slipping into sin or struggling with something you still battle with, you’re not alone! Whether visible or hidden, we all have something to battle, ask the Lord for forgiveness, and walk in repentance accordingly. That means we all need to walk in humility and understand that we must take this disposition with God to mature in faith (1 Peter 5:6). If we keep in mind that Jesus Christ already won the war for us, and recognize that we only need to fight the battles as we go, we will learn that there’s nothing left to prove to anyone.

Traps where we feel compelled to prove ourselves.

Sometimes, even the most mature believers can still feel that propensity to prove and impress others. I have felt this too; it’s something that I have encountered in my walk with Jesus Christ.

In dating, I have found myself wanting to overshare, overexplain, or over-text to impress people. However, as I develop confidence in the Lord and surrender the need to prove myself, I have seen progress. I realize that it allows attraction to develop. I remind myself that my validation comes from God, not people, and that if a connection doesn’t suit me, I can walk away calmly. None of this is done out of spite, disrespect, or some aura of superiority. It comes from knowing that if I have my identity rooted in Jesus Christ, there’s nothing and no one who can take that away from me.

In leadership, there are moments when, if the tendency is to dominate the conversation or defend every criticism, I step back to recognize that there’s no need to do so. I don’t need every single person I encounter to like me. Instead of wasting my energy trying to accomplish that, I can invest it in the things God has called me to focus on. When I started making this shift, I noticed something practical. By letting go of the urge to please everyone, I reclaimed significant time that would have otherwise been spent in unnecessary meetings, lengthy email threads, or follow-up conversations solely for validation. 

That extra time has allowed me to deepen my work on tasks that matter, improve my preparation for the responsibilities God has placed before me, and even create more space for rest or spiritual growth. When I can do this without apology, I know I am on the right track. Instead of allowing others to manipulate me or allocate my time on my behalf, I can question what God wants me to do and figure out how to prioritize my needs. I don’t do anyone any favors if I expend too much energy serving others, burn out, and don’t take into account my needs, desires, and life focus.

In content creation and following my calling, I have found a sense of confidence and power from not focusing excessively on performance and metrics. When we obey God in the little things, He may assign us more responsibility in the future when the time is right. I wouldn’t have felt prepared for the season I am in now a decade ago, so I know God custom-made my journey for His glory and my good (Romans 8:28). I don’t want to rush the lesson; I want to get as much as I can out of it, so I aim to be present every day. I am thankful for each and every day of life, especially since I know not a day is promised (James 4:13-14)!

What are some of the practical steps to grow in quiet confidence?

Those who know me well know I have work to do in this area. I am not typically the quiet one, and I don’t shy away from sharing my perspective. Here are a few practical steps I try to follow to grow in confidence and avoid the traps I have already shared, along with real scenarios to help picture how they can be lived out.

Slow down your speech. For example, before responding in a discussion, I try to take a breath and carefully consider my words. Instead of jumping in immediately, I pause, reflect on what was said, and then share my thoughts. This small act often leads to more thoughtful communication and deeper conversations.

Delay defensiveness (especially during emotionally charged encounters). In a recent conversation, I felt criticized, and my first reaction was to defend myself. Instead, I reminded myself to hold back my immediate impulses and listen fully to the feedback. Doing this helped the conversation become more constructive and less confrontational.

There’s a time for silence, distinguish when it makes sense. I recall a situation where a heated disagreement was going back and forth. Rather than adding to the noise, I chose to remain silent and simply listened. This allowed tensions to settle and gave everyone, including me, space to process more clearly.

Trust that God’s timing is perfect, so don’t force or rush things. When I was eager to see quick results on a personal project, I found myself feeling frustrated. I chose to step back, pray, and remind myself that God may be working behind the scenes. Allowing events to unfold naturally has often brought unexpected blessings at the right time.

Surrender all the outcomes to God, knowing He is sovereign. For instance, after preparing for a job interview or presentation, I do my part and then let go of the results. I pray and accept that God is in control, whether or not things turn out as I hope. This posture frees me from anxiety and helps me move forward in peace.

When we take these practical measures, people start to find our presence calming. Turning off performance mode gives us the freedom to express ourselves authentically and to let go of the pressure to impress others. It also empowers me to provide others the gift of my attention and improve my listening skills.

Let me share a recent moment of self-awareness. In the middle of a group discussion, I felt the familiar urge to jump in and share my perspective. My mind raced ahead, crafting a response, and I caught myself almost interrupting. But this time, I paused. Internally, I thought, “Wait, let the other person finish. Listen. There is value in hearing them out.” 

As I sat back and really listened, the pressure to prove a point faded, replaced by genuine curiosity about what was being said. That small act of restraint opened the way for a more meaningful exchange, and I noticed the entire conversation felt more relaxed and open.

Sometimes I have the bad habit of interrupting people while they talk, but being self-aware of tendencies like this gives me a clear target to aim for when I make adjustments. I don’t have to monopolize or steer the conversation. Instead, I can sit back and enjoy the company I am in, until it’s time to do otherwise (Proverbs 25:11). One thing I’ve noticed is that when I am more deliberate and relaxed, my words carry more weight when it’s the right time to talk. When we employ these ideas, we lead more effortlessly. That stability translates as confidence, and that trait in a world of unpredictability and chaos is attractive. These days, who can’t use a little extra peace in their lives?

Closing thoughts and prayer.

True strength doesn’t always shout from the rooftops or advertise itself. Security doesn’t rush to justify or defend itself, much less because of trivial matters. Leadership doesn’t chase the applause of people. You know where true strength is found? In the joy of the Lord (Nehemiah 8:10). It follows that security is found not in worldly amenities, but in God’s promises (Hebrews 10:23), presence (Isaiah 41:10), and provision (Philippians 4:19).

Jesus Christ didn’t strive for validation. He lived in complete surrender to God the Father. Do the scriptures show Him defending Himself against every accusation, or do they show that He trusted God the Father to vindicate Him (Matthew 27:12-14)? Let’s emulate Jesus Christ and see if, with the help of God, we can draw nearer to this disposition. I know I am in the trenches with you, and while there’s a lot of work to do, God remains faithful.

As you enter this week, I challenge you to choose one situation—at work, at home, or among friends—where you feel the pull to prove yourself. In that moment, instead of seeking approval from others, pause and turn your attention to God. Ask Him for the quiet confidence to rest in His love and let His approval be enough.

Dear God,

Help me lay down my need for human approval. Give me the courage to walk in quiet confidence and remind me that my worth comes from You alone. Fill my heart with Your peace and teach me to find my joy in Your presence.

In Jesus Christ’s precious, holy, and mighty name I pray.

Amen.

One outstanding way that instant gratification has ramped up in recent years is with the advent and progression of social media. Most of us agree that social media has its perks, but it’s not all unicorns and rainbows. The creators of these applications have designed them to engage the user base in a way that goes beyond briefly engaging the user. The goal is often simple. Those who have worked on these applications have openly shared their intentions to captivate our attention and keep us on the applications for as long as possible.

There is an addictive component to seeing likes, comments, and shares roll in from our family, friends, acquaintances, and even strangers. For most of us, the crowd consists primarily of people many don’t know well. We have become addicted to digesting bite-sized content and exchanging memes with people we often only know superficially! Meanwhile, we find ourselves gravitating to our phones when we’re around some of the people we love the most. It takes deliberate effort to silence our phones and give our loved ones the gift of our attention. When we fail to do this, we are falling for the trap.

Don’t get me wrong. These applications have also empowered many with a platform to share their message with people who wouldn’t have otherwise heard them. It has opened the door to conversations and debate in the public square where those who may not have had a say now have one. It has even allowed us to share the Gospel and conveniently connect with family and friends when we cannot reach out in person. The impact is not all negative, but we often glaze over some detrimental impacts without much thought. Many of our younger generations need more face-to-face interaction to develop communication skills. Online communication and texting have replaced a significant amount of in-person connections. The infrequency of this situation may cause them to struggle due to a lack of in-person connection with their peers. Instead, they live with their heads tucked downwards, focusing on the online side of their world.

Another area of concern, also revolving around applications and social media, applies to many of us. We switch between bite-sized pieces of content across various topics in brief reels, shorts, and clips. It’s become quite rampant, and as a result, our attention span has suffered. Suppose we get caught up in a treadmill of digesting these little nuggets of information back to back without any real connectivity between topics. In that case, it’s no wonder we may find it challenging to focus on things like reading a book or remaining attentive in conversation.

These developments aren’t limited to social media. The ease of access to anything from fast food to online streaming platforms for entertainment puts everything at our fingertips. These comforts and pleasures can deter us from meaningful pursuits when we allow them to run rampant. Most things worth pursuing in life involve a lot of effort over an extended period. It takes a certain level of sacrifice, risk, and delayed gratification to make our greatest dreams a reality. Suppose we get accustomed to the easy way to stimulate our brains and get immediate gratification. In that case, making meaningful sacrifices toward the future rewards God has in store for us becomes more arduous.

We will find more long-term fulfillment in investing for the future than maximizing our comfort now (Ecclesiastes 1:14). For example, every good relationship takes work. We need to figure out how our partners give and receive love, and we need to figure out their communication styles in instances where we may not understand them. We must aim to understand their behavior patterns and exercise the patience to consider their perspective (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). As people, we all grow and develop, so there must be grace to extend to one another as we mature. Who are we not to extend the love, grace, and patience that God has given us (John 3:16)? Sometimes, on the most challenging days, we must choose love. A loving relationship carries sacrifices and risks, but we can say the same thing about almost everything worth doing. If we keep at it together, it’s only a matter of time before you see the fruit of your efforts.

The Christian life is all about sacrifice, risk, and delayed gratification. We sacrifice by taking up our cross daily and serving God (Luke 9:23). Some of us risk our comfort, jobs, and lives in obedience to God’s call (Philippians 2:30). When we obey God in this life, we practice a form of delayed gratification (Matthew 16:25-27). Instead of living for this world’s fleeting pleasures, we seek to store treasure in heaven (Matthew 16:25-27). Rather than indulging the desires of the flesh, lust of the eyes, or the pride of life, we walk in the victory that Jesus Christ gave us over sin and death (1 John 2:16, 1 Corinthians 15:55-56). We prioritize obeying God even when it costs us something because He first loved us, and now we love Him (1 John 4:19, John 14:15).

Does this all mean we must walk in perfection? No. Only Jesus Christ did that. However, it does mean God has called us to serve in a way that transcends this world’s distractions. When we live for the moment, we may enjoy much pleasure. If we sacrifice solely for the luxuries and amenities in this world, we may also achieve those. But the most extraordinary form of sacrifice, risk, and delayed gratification is to live for God by emulating His Son, Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1). He calls us to put Him first and make sure this world and everything in it comes secondary to us (1 John 2:17).

Anything we do that involves sacrificing something in this world for the sake of God and His glory will echo into eternity (Romans 8:18). We will never regret prioritizing God by utilizing our gifts, talents, resources, and energy to execute His will. We can only fill the missing puzzle pieces in our hearts through fellowship with Jesus Christ (Ephesians 3:17-19). God has designed us to bring Him glory by being ambassadors for His Son, Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20). Don’t forget your identity in God, and remember that everything you do for Him is eternally meaningful (2 Corinthians 5:17).

May God’s love for you overflow as you serve Him by loving those around you. When we are friends of God and genuinely desire to live for Him, it will not be too hard to make the sacrifices and delays in gratification warranted to glorify Him (James 2:23, John 15:15). Before you know it, you’ll reflect Jesus Christ in more and more aspects of your life as you mature in faith. We all need to surrender our idols and work on ensuring this world’s distractions don’t steal our hearts away from our true purpose (Ezekiel 36:25). Praise God for His help in empowering us to do so!

Living a fulfilling and fruitful life as a believer involves discovering your purpose. We must all determine our God-given assignment to determine what He would have us invest our focus. Without this sense of direction, our lives can become aimless. It becomes easy to fall into the snare of potential distractions, instant gratification, or the pursuit of temporary idols without a clearly defined mission (Romans 1:22-25). Our faith in God and relentless pursuit of His will provide the antidote for those traps. Seeking God’s desires keeps us focused on the meaningful things in life and helps us avoid turmoil (2 Timothy 2:22).

Find God’s purpose amid an ocean of distractions.

Some things can benefit us when we don’t over-emphasize them (1 Corinthians 10:23-24). For example, excelling in a career, pursuing quality relationships, or finding some satisfaction in achievements all have their place in a well-rounded life (Ecclesiastes 3:11-13). The problem comes when one or more of these pursuits detract from our relationship with God. These are among the most common places where we find some aspect of our purpose. That’s why we must be careful not to allow the good things in life to become idols. We cannot overemphasize them to the point of neglecting God.

There are times when overlap exists between a career and a Godly directive, but for many Christians, these are two distinct pathways. We may honor God with how we excel at work, love our significant other, or honor Him with our achievements. However, when such pursuits align with our purpose in the Kingdom of God, we will experience unparalleled satisfaction. It is essential to align our goals with God’s will by spending time with Him to discern where to invest our time, energy, and resources (John 15:5).

Differentiate between worldly pursuits and Godly ambitions.

It is easy to distinguish between modern distractions and finding your meaning in obedience to God’s will. If an activity or ambition leaves you feeling empty or dissatisfied on some level, you are likely not actively pursuing your calling (Romans 12:1-2). The reality is that most of us if not all, need to cope with many things we prefer not to do on any given day. There are times when you will also have to find motivation and strength from God to walk out the calling He lovingly placed upon your life. But, even after all the diligent work, if you feel a sense of peace, joy, and satisfaction for having done it, you are on the right track. For clarity, you might ask yourself questions such as:

• “Is this something that honors, glorifies, and acknowledges God?”
• “If money was no object, would I be willing to do this for free?”
• “Do I see positive results for God’s kingdom?”
• “Am I investing in my immediate gratification or in eternity?”
• “Am I making a difference in other people’s lives?”
• “Has a fellow believer pointed out that this might be an area of gifting in my life?”
• “Does what I do for God come a bit easier to me than it might for other believers who may themselves be gifted in other areas?” 

As you reflect on these questions and, most importantly, pray about what God would have you do, do not feel discouraged if you are unsure what your niche is. I find myself enjoying writing and teaching about the Bible. I take this calling in my life seriously, knowing that as a teacher of God’s Word, I am subject to a high standard of judgment (James 3:1). Accuracy in those works is among my utmost priorities because I want to teach people without compromise. I aspire for my work to be as error-free as possible. Remember that whatever we do unto the glory of God, we should pursue with our best effort (1 Corinthians 10:31).

What is the connection between our faith and purpose?

It takes faith to invest substantial time in God’s assignment for you (Matthew 17:20). In doing God’s work, you rarely receive positive feedback, earn significant sums of money, or enjoy the world’s applause (John 15:18-21). But you will still answer the calling God has placed in your heart because it will be one of the few ways to find fulfillment and joy in serving God (2 Thessalonians 1:11-12). It becomes easier when we realize that living for eternity is superior to everything this world offers (Matthew 6:19-21).

There is also a sense of connectivity and identity found in serving God that we don’t experience when we are solely seeking our best interests. When we participate in something larger than ourselves, looking outside ourselves rather than reflecting on our needs, we recognize that our concerns shrink rapidly (Philippians 2:3-5). We can’t always avoid difficult times, but helping others often brings peace. Looking outside our needs and helping others with their needs shifts our perspective from selfish desires to gratitude and contentment (Acts 20:35; 1 Timothy 6:6-10). 

Seeing that we are not alone in our desire to serve God and His people is a blessing. Sharing the common ground of mutual desires to utilize our gifts, talents, resources, time, and energy to glorify God alongside our faithful friends provides us extra motivation to keep fighting the good fight of faith (2 Timothy 4:5-8). Our Church often motivates us to pursue God’s work in righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and gentleness (1 Timothy 6:11-12; Galatians 5:22-23). We can often accomplish this independently, too. Still, we must always return to God, His Word, and our Christian friends to nourish us with the spiritual sustenance we desperately need to persevere (Philippians 4:6-7).

Faith in God’s Word is our moral compass.

Knowing God’s Word and utilizing it to guide our actions should go hand-in-hand. Faith is the fuel that takes us from knowledge to wisdom (James 1:5-6). When we believe God’s Word, we are compelled to be proactive in light of what we know to be true. When we know, believe, and apply God’s Word, we prioritize God’s will over our own. We will follow God’s commands, leading us to better decisions on our journey with Him (John 15:14-16). If glorifying God is our ultimate purpose, it should be intuitive that His Word is the blueprint for that intention to flourish (1 Corinthians 6:20). 

The more our faith aligns with God’s Word, the more frequently we will see it manifest itself in our actions. None of us will ever regret placing our faith in our Maker. He is sovereign over everything (Colossians 1:16-17), loves us more than we can fathom (1 John 4:7-10), does not change (Malachi 3:6), and has our best interests at heart for eternity (Romans 8:28). May we all find solace and contentment in confidently pursuing our purpose, knowing we can trust God (1 Timothy 6:6-10). 

It is always wise to obey God’s commands. We know evangelism is part of our call because of God’s Word. God has commanded us to evangelize based on what is known as the “Great Commission” (Matthew 28:19-20). It is important to note that while all believers should pursue the task, the path taken may vary depending on individual circumstances. Our approach should consider several situational dynamics, which are critical to conveying the core of our faith. For instance, it matters who we speak with, where we are located, and how to adapt the message best to communicate God’s Word. Aiming to do all this without watering down the message is vital to ensure we are compelling ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20).

We must exercise discretion and follow the lead of the Holy Spirit to be effective vessels equipped to answer the call God puts in our hearts. We don’t need all the answers before sharing the gospel. The key points of our faith are the ones we need to know how to communicate. We need to share such realities as:

• All human beings have a fallen nature (Romans 3:23). 
• Even one sin is significant enough to send us to hell if we do not come to saving faith (1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Romans 6:23).
• Jesus Christ died for our past, present, and future sins to offer us salvation (Romans 5:8).
• Salvation comes by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-10).
• Jesus Christ has justified us, or in other words, declared us as righteous upon our salvation (Romans 5:1).
• We can spend eternity with Him due to His love, provision, and sacrifice on our behalf (John 3:16).
• Our opportunity to reconcile to God the Father, despite our sins, is solely through Jesus Christ (1 Timothy 2:5-6).

These principles will help the recipient of the gospel message to realize that they are sinners in need of their Lord and Savior, just like we are (1 Corinthians 1:18). Empathizing and developing a sense of camaraderie with them can be a great starting point before delving into them. Learning about their viewpoints, cultures, and perspectives can go a long way. Connecting with them often makes these interactions more effective (1 Corinthians 9:19-23). 

Our approach may change as we gauge their receptiveness to the message. We must tread cautiously if they get defensive and unwilling to hear about the Bible. Some people could even react with hostility to listening to God’s Word. In those cases, we must give them space to reflect on what the Holy Spirit prompted us to tell them. The best we can do at that point is redirect the conversation to a neutral topic or walk away, depending on the circumstances, and pray for them. The blessing is that even in such cases, we can rest assured that we still did what God desired, and we may have had a more significant impact than we might imagine. There is no telling if they felt convicted about their sin. Perhaps God laid down the foundation for them to open their hearts to Him in the future through your boldness (Hebrews 4:12). 

Recall that you are a vessel for God and take satisfaction in accomplishing your responsibility in His eyes (2 Timothy 2:21). There is no need to concern yourself about the outcomes from your perspective. God already accounted for all of it. He can still utilize what you view as an unsuccessful attempt at evangelism for His glory. Think back to a current believer whom God transformed through unlikely measures. Perhaps that person was you. After you have given your best effort, surrender it to God and let go of worry. The key is that God’s Word does not return void, and we cannot imagine what God can do in any encounter (Isaiah 55:11; Ephesians 1:13). We cannot allow discouragement in these situations to steer us away from accomplishing God’s will.

Sharing God’s Word can take on many forms. You might be uncomfortable with preaching or teaching, but sharing the gospel can be done in various ways. You might see it fit to start by inviting people to your local Church or sharing literature (i.e., gospel tracts). Another possibility is to pursue evangelism online through written articles. Many find creative avenues to share, such as YouTube videos or social media. No matter what you do, do it unto God’s glory and find the approach that fits you best (1 Corinthians 10:31). 

God knows our hearts and capabilities. May we all glorify Him through evangelism efforts (2 Corinthians 4:7). It takes time and effort, but God saves people from an eternity in hell when we share His Word (2 Corinthians 3:4-5). That is a sobering reality that should always drive a sense of urgency in us to do so. Let us obey God’s call to arms and invite future brothers and sisters in Christ to join the fold alongside us. Imagine having a hand in helping someone avoid hell and spending eternity in Heaven with our Good Shephard (Jude 1:21-23; John 10:1-3)! May we be bold and unashamed to do so as the Holy Spirit leads us to.

It was 2006, and I began my post-high school track at the University of Miami. Early in my academic career, I strongly desired to excel. I had a rocky start to my first semester compared to the standards I had come to expect in high school. I was accustomed to achieving straight A’s. Going in, I assumed I could easily handle a six-class course load and stacked those classes to all be on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with only the sixth class being Wednesdays. The sixth course was a post-graduation preparation class that would prepare us for either law school or an MBA program. What could be better than a four-day weekend every week? 

I assumed it would be an excellent plan as it would enable me to continue participating in competitive PC gaming while providing additional free time to focus on studying. However, I needed to allot my time to better prioritize school work and study instead of structuring my time to make room for the games that interested me. Ultimately, this strategy resulted in a mix of A’s and B’s with a C+ in a Communications course I underestimated. These results fell short of my expectations but taught me a humbling lesson. I was confident I could redeem myself in the Spring of 2006 and made adjustments to make that a reality. 

Adjustments were needed!

It was clear that I would only turn things around if I studied more diligently and put in more effort starting the next semester. I decided to do five classes instead of six and begin a paid internship with OfficeMax, which an old friend connected me with. I felt fortunate as this was not the kind of opportunity a first-year student would often get. I also made the crucial adjustment to spread those five classes through Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. One upside of the internship was that I would allocate less free time to playing PC games, but there were a few downsides I did not foresee. The schedule would give little room for error. I was confident I could handle it at the time despite suspecting I might exert myself too much. I thought, “How hard would it be to put games on the back burner and pay more attention if need be?”

I hit the ground running that next semester and saw myself excel in all I was doing. The perfectionist inside of me was delighted with my performance. Within that first month or two of the semester, I got straight A’s and worked diligently to prove myself in my internship. I even made some time to play those coveted PC games and give lessons for money to augment my income. Some upper-level classmates and co-workers I occasionally encountered recognized my hard work through their affirmation and encouragement. I also noticed one of the young ladies in a class appeared enthusiastic about getting to know me. In my eyes, I was on top of the world in practically every area that seemed to matter.

I felt invincible, and my faith was the only aspect of my life I had allowed to become secondary. I did not slip away to the extent where I would call myself a prodigal or rebel, but I was not seeking God above the parameters for success the world offered. All these things I pursued were good. The mistake was not ensuring God was my top priority (Matthew 6:33). I was not attending Church or any Bible studies (Hebrews 10:25), although I still made it a point to talk to people about God on campus (Matthew 28:18-20). I also did so in the computer games I used to play. But the reality was apart from that, and perhaps some prayer time, my faith was not where it should be.

God corrects those He loves.

After those first couple of months or so, I was highly stressed out. It was a great time to quit the PC games, consider dropping one class, or even let go of the internship to salvage my work-life balance and mental health. Given my competitive nature, I did not find these solutions reasonable. I told myself I would power through anything and the stressors would subside in time (Proverbs 16:18). It got to a point where I did not sleep enough, and I became severely burnt out from over-extending myself. I did not recognize my limitations and remove something from my schedule. Instead, not long after, I put myself in a position where I needed to drop the entire load immediately. That is what I did, and not too long later, I realized I found myself immersed in a manic episode. I even had to be hospitalized, and my recovery was no walk in the park, to say the absolute least. 

Instead of having the humility and self-control to retire the PC games and sleep better, I had to let go of everything I was working for. I was not angry at God but was perplexed why He would allow me to suffer such a severe setback. I would face similar consequences for my mistakes again further down the road. My excessive ambition, competitive nature, and perfectionism led me to experience similar events thrice more during the following decade. It was challenging to realize that God gave me a loving and merciful detour because I was overly focused on what I had lost (Hebrews 12:11).

To this day, I can only speculate what God’s complete plan entails concerning these events. First and foremost, it made me realize that I should invest in eternity over the fleeting accomplishments and accolades this world offers (Ephesians 5:15-17). It also taught me I could not force or accomplish anything outside Him, allowing and empowering it. None of us can do anything of eternal value outside of Jesus Christ helping us to do so (John 15:4-8).

Instead of becoming a lawyer or climbing the ranks of a corporate ladder, God turned my focus back to Him. I discovered the value of being in His will, learned that God is to be loved and feared, and even found great satisfaction in serving Him through writing, among other pursuits (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14). God even blessed me with more time to spend with my mom and dad, who helped me in my darkest days and never gave up on my recovery despite how bleak things were.

I may not know every reason why God ordained what happened, but I could not be more thankful that it did. My relationship with Him is stronger than ever. I placed my career aspirations on indefinite hold due to the circumstances of what occurred, but I am all the more blessed for having grown closer to Him in that season. I will celebrate eight years since my last hospitalization in August of this year, and He has remained faithful to me. The trial was severe, but God never abandoned me or let me down in any way (James 1:2-4; Deuteronomy 31:6; Hebrews 13:5-6).

It can be quite painful or even excruciating at the moment, but God corrects those He loves (Hebrews 12:6-7). All the lessons God teaches you the hard way have their purpose (Romans 8:28). One of the best ways to approach this is to learn from the experience and mistakes of others. Exercising our humility and integrating valuable lessons into our lives is crucial. While this may not always be a luxury available to us, it should always be on our radar to consider the advice of the people that love us. It rings even more true when they have our best interests at heart and are qualified to offer the advice they give regarding the subject matter.

Final thoughts

Instead of finding your identity in your career, relationships, or other gauges of success, I suggest discovering it in God first (2 Corinthians 5:17). We can enjoy these avenues of human achievement in their time as God opens the door. But they should never be our most significant focus. If you find your identity in Jesus Christ, it cannot be taken away, stolen, or otherwise lost. Nothing can separate us from His love (Romans 8:35-39)! Take comfort in His presence today. We can find joy, satisfaction, and fulfillment in Him (Psalm 16:11). Everything He blesses us with in this life is the icing on the cake. The real blessing is having the chance to serve Him and spend eternity with God in Heaven. We should thank Him for everything from the little material blessings (i.e., a pen and paper) to the largest of spiritual ones (i.e., knowing Jesus Christ as Savior) and everything in between. May God empower us all to live for His glory without regrets and appreciate all those blessings we are given rather than focusing on what we may lack (1 Chronicles 16:29-30).

For those times that we have fallen short, we must quickly seek God to confess our sins, ask for forgiveness, repent, and ask Him to cleanse us of all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). We can move forward with a clean slate when we do things God’s way. Instead of carrying around the burden of our past trespasses, we can walk in confidence that God does not hold condemnation against us (Romans 8:1). We may approach His throne boldly and recognize that by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, His Son, we have been counted righteous in His sight (Hebrews 4:16; Ephesians 2:8-9).

A key component of ensuring we keep God first revolves around avoiding idolatry (1 Corinthians 10:14). Idolatry can be deceptive because good things can become idols if we fail to approach them as God designed them. God blesses us with the chance to form deep connections with others that could potentially lead to marriage. However, we are not exercising wisdom if we prioritize these relationships over our devotion to God. Sex is also a blessing from God, but if we have it outside of His design in marriage, it is a sin and carries consequences with it (Hebrews 13:4). Thank God forgiveness is available to those of us who have fallen short in such areas. Still, our responsibility is to battle them and repent. These two blessings go hand-in-hand with God’s intentions for creation, and God designed them for us to enjoy in their proper place (Mark 10:7-8). The problem arises when we do not follow God’s guidance with the gifts He has given us.

When we think we are standing in victory from a disposition of self-righteousness and pride, we are also terribly mistaken (1 Corinthians 10:12). We all have different strengths and weaknesses. It would be imprudent of me to judge someone harshly because they struggle with a sin I find easy to abstain from. In our hearts, we must remember that there is always room for improvement in at least one if not many, areas of weakness. We should let that reality lead us not to think of ourselves more highly than we ought and esteem others more highly than ourselves whenever possible (Romans 12:3; Philippians 2:3). If not, our pride and self-righteousness may become serious precursors to significant falls (Proverbs 16:18-19).

Sometimes, even though we feel we are in good standing with God, we must ask God to examine and help us align our heart’s desires with His will (Proverbs 3:5-6). We may have a problem that may be hard to detect due to being desensitized to the gravity of the situation. Perhaps it stems from ignorance, habitual sin, or the long-term underestimation of a foothold that became a prominent issue or a stronghold. Thankfully, God can help us take thoughts captive and empower us to demolish strongholds we may have mistakenly allowed our adversary to develop (2 Corinthians 10:4-6). A combination of humility, self-awareness, and prayer can be the antidote we need to resolve these issues immediately. The sooner we cut a small sin off at its root, the better off we will be long-term, for it will not have the chance to grow (Matthew 5:29-30).

It is vital to pursue the well-being of our loved ones and help them when they are willing to consider our advice. Sometimes we can offer the truth in love to a fellow brother or sister in Christ (Ephesians 4:14-15). It can bring temporary discomfort or, in extreme cases, potentially cost us that relationship altogether. But they may need to hear what we say, which could become an eternal blessing (Galatians 6:1-3).

I only advocate that we do this with careful consideration of factors such as our proximity to them relationally, the timing of relevant circumstances, and their willingness to heed our advice in prior instances. Sometimes we must be willing to risk a friendship to offer them the direction they might not realize they desperately need. There are enough people out there that are willing to tell you what you desire to hear (2 Timothy 4:3-4). Good friends occasionally offer advice that challenges and steers us to consider our decision-making.

When you give this kind of advice, it is wise to pray beforehand and ensure it is with good intentions. Speak the truth with love and offer it gracefully in proportion to the topic’s sensitivity. Transparency with your difficulty in a similar area may help them understand they are not alone in their struggle (Matthew 7:1-5). They may not appreciate it now but will be grateful in the long run. If you receive such constructive criticism or judgment, try to exercise self-control and discernment (James 1:19-20). It may be difficult not to get defensive, but ask yourself if the person has your best interests at heart and is qualified to offer advice about the topic. You should take their advice with a grain of salt when one of these requirements is lacking. Seek God’s guidance above all in prayer to find confirmation before you make any sudden decisions.

Ultimately, we all need each other and God above all others. Do not hesitate to act if you are confident God is leading you to do so. But remember that God often aligns us with His will and speaks to us through the loved ones He surrounds us with. Keep in mind that God will never contradict His Word. Seek and obey Him above all others, but try to maintain the humility to recognize when you are given quality advice from someone perhaps older, wiser, or otherwise more experienced than you in certain areas. Their words may not be as gracious as you desire, but if acting on them would save you from a world of pain, they are crucial to consider.

Communities represent a group of people that have shared locations or common goals. All of us are hard-wired to foster these connections. God created us with an innate desire for social interaction (Genesis 2:18). The truth is no one is an island. Sooner or later, we all need to lean on our tribe. Investing in those people is essential for improving the community and ourselves. How can we otherwise receive and share God’s love (John 13:34-35)? 

Finding the proper balance of sowing and reaping is essential (Galatians 6:7-9). If all we do is give of our time, energy, and efforts, we eventually face burnout. No one can sustain that without finding nourishment in God and His people (Matthew 4:4). If all we do is receive from others, we will not discover the joy and satisfaction of sharing our gifts, talents, and resources (Acts 20:35). Your local Church is ideal for meeting with like-minded believers and experiencing this beautiful dynamic first-hand.

In God’s eyes, you bring something significant to the table. Share it with the world!

God designed us with unique gifts and talents (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). We all bring something to the table that God wants us to use to glorify Him (1 Corinthians 10:31). When we love, serve, and edify one another, we empower each other to do God’s work more effectively (1 Thessalonians 5:11; John 13:34-35). Doing this also positions us better to help those beyond our Church. 

For example, a Bible study group at Church may encourage us to reach out to a non-believer and share God’s Word (Mark 16:15). Alternatively, we may feel compelled by other believers to participate in a volunteer opportunity that feeds, clothes, and shelters, or provides supplies for the less fortunate (Matthew 25:40). Even if you were motivated to work on this task alone, it would be challenging to be as efficient or effective as a team unified to accomplish the same goal.

Our sanctification blossoms when fellowship opportunities abound!

Serving each other allows us to grow in Christ-likeness. We might acquire Biblical insight alone, but what good does it do if we don’t put it in motion? What good does it serve to capture knowledge without exercising the wisdom it should inspire? The Church opens the door for us to do so in various ways.

For instance, we might offer a loved one a listening ear and empathy for them to come to a sound conclusion (Proverbs 19:20-21). We can provide counsel that speaks to a situation they are going through (Proverbs 11:14). Your friend may be struggling with a challenge in their spiritual journey, relationship, career, or another area of life and could use your support in making a well-informed decision. Since we are outside the problem, our objective perspective often offers a worthwhile outlook. Having been on both sides of this equation, I can attest to the immense benefits of forming alliances with our Church family.

Encouraging forgiveness among church members is likewise crucial (Matthew 18:21-22). Churches must promote this value to strengthen relationships and foster community. The reality is our human nature leads even the best of us to fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23). No matter what congregation you visit. You will encounter imperfect people. Eventually, someone will let you down, and it is likely only a matter of time before you do the same. We can honor God by forgiving others as He forgives us (Matthew 6:14-15).

The self-awareness of knowing our flaws should provide ample motivation to forgive others. Sometimes it may be challenging and take a substantial amount of time to pardon an offense. But we should streamline this process because harboring unforgiveness, resentment, bitterness, or anger serves no one. An attitude like this hinders our progress and derails us from moving forward in peace (Romans 12:18).

In severe cases, it’s possible that forgiving someone is what God wants for you, but that doesn’t imply you should expose yourself to the same kind of hurt again. However, we should avoid cutting ties prematurely. All of us are susceptible to wronging others. One day it will be our turn to request a similar pardon for our mistakes. If God has forgiven the unforgivable in us, we need to demonstrate our love and patience in forgiving others (1 Peter 4:8, Mark 11:25).

Our success depends on mutual reliance.

Recognizing our weaknesses and exercising humility is essential to navigating life in God’s way (1 Peter 1:24-25). It is a difficult task for those who have yet to experience life’s most tremendous hardships. They might find themselves oblivious to our frailty until they must endure it first-hand. However, acknowledging that we need each other provides an antidote to our pride (James 4:6; Ecclesiastes 4:10). How else would we understand true resilience comes from God’s providence rather than human effort (Joshua 1:9)?

Understanding human fragility provides a compelling reason to comfort those undergoing extraordinary challenges. It also puts us in a position to accept prayer, help, and other support when needed. Whether God offers us support by supernatural means or through our community is His call. Either way, we should keep sight of the fact that He is sovereign, and we must submit to His will (Ephesians 1:11; Romans 12:2).

There is beauty in helping without keeping score.

We should refrain from offering our help with the expectation of anything in return. Exercising generosity for human recognition may detract from the eternal significance of what we do (Matthew 6:1-2). Avoiding expectation also absolves us from keeping tabs and developing a form of social obligation. Instead, we can offer support when it is within our power without further expectation (Luke 6:35-36). Trust God to surround you with help when you need it most (Psalm 46:1). Rest assured that God is more than capable of resolving all your problems (Psalm 50:14-15). Finally, we must be patient in our endurance (Hebrews 10:35-37).

There is no need to worry that He will not provide for your essentials when He even assures us the birds of the air get fed (Matthew 6:26-27). How much more will He help you? Remember, God created us in His image (Genesis 1:27)! Human beings are the crown jewel of His creation. So take comfort that you matter to God more than you can comprehend. Without Him, we cannot accomplish anything of eternal significance, but with Jesus Christ, we are more than conquerors ( John 15:55; Romans 8:31-37).

We must examine each avenue of digital opportunity from a Christian perspective and determine how to align them with our faith. When we seek God’s will above ours, it will help us find creative ways to serve Him with each future solution these tools provide (Proverbs 3:5–6). It is essential to make sure that our pursuits remain as faultless as possible and to use our time wisely for the glory of God (Ephesians 5:16-18).

For example, the internet can be an avenue for evangelism (Mark 16:15), apologetics (1 Peter 3:15), organizing volunteer opportunities and missions (1 Corinthians 9:19-23), or finding platforms that help us better understand God’s Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17). First, however, we must acknowledge that the internet also presents distractions, dangers, and temptations that may lead believers astray (Isaiah 53:6).

With such a wide range of potential use cases, we must wield discretion and wisdom to figure out when a specific situation is favorable or when we need to exercise caution (James 1:5). Above all else, we must learn to distinguish between unreasonable activities and sensible options. Of course, many undertakings are not explicitly evil in and of themselves. Still, if those endeavors risk becoming an idol or do not give us a good return on the time we invest into them, it benefits us to get rid of them (1 Corinthians 6:9-10). Sometimes we have to say “no” to something good to say “yes” to something greater. (1 Corinthians 10:23-24).

Through social media, we can interact with a wide range of individuals, including family, friends, acquaintances, and even strangers. However, it may also detract from pursuing a smaller quantity of higher-quality relationships in person. We may neglect face-to-face interactions with individuals right before us when immersed in it. Furthermore, many of us have caught ourselves looking at our phones and examining these connections while ignoring the loved ones we surround ourselves with. Instead, we must give those in person our undivided attention and deliberately avoid scrolling away aimlessly. Using social media is not intrinsically wrong, but as with many things in life, we must exercise careful moderation to maintain control.

Artificial intelligence presents its share of ethical dilemmas. The advent of recent technology in this domain has led leaders to warn us about their concerns. Over 1,000 tech leaders and researchers, including Elon Musk, have signed an open letter that urges a temporary halt to the ongoing and sophisticated advancements in the realm of A.I. (“Elon Musk and Others Call for Pause on A.I., Citing ‘Profound Risks to Society'”).

We must pay attention when advancement in any sector supersedes our ability to implement safety protocols and regulations. For instance, in the case of A.I., publicly available chatbots such as ChatGPT broke records for sign-ups after their inception. If these are freely accessible online, we can only imagine the power of more capable systems that have yet to be revealed. It is only natural to surmise that there must be real threats if some of the forerunners in the field are sounding alarm bells.

Christians should not fear such developments, but that does not mean we should advocate for ignorance (Isaiah 41:10). We know God is sovereign and in complete control, but trusting God and pursuing logical solutions are not mutually exclusive. Therefore, we should pursue boundaries, answers, and even fair-use cases to guarantee such tools serve rather than hinder us (Matthew 10:16).

For example, some of us may agree that a Pastor should not rely on ChatGPT to formulate a sermon because leaving that to a bot rather than God’s lead would be questionable. First, it may not fit his congregation’s unique needs, and more importantly, it might not be what God would inspire him to put together otherwise. So instead, I suggest avoiding substituting a bot’s insight for the Holy Spirit’s lead (John 14:26). 

Is it acceptable if someone is writing a Christian article and using a tool like ChatGPT to brainstorm potential topics and as a writing prompt? What about producing an outline for a specific subject to write about? It may be appropriate or even helpful to a point, but eventually, it becomes necessary to establish limitations depending on the use case. Using a chatbot to provide information without verifying its accuracy and alignment with Biblical principles can raise ethical and moral concerns.

The field is brand new and will undoubtedly become the topic of many upcoming conversations, in and out of the Church. Supporters of both sides may present compelling arguments, so we must prepare to tackle them. However, these innovations represent a small piece of the big picture in this field. As believers, we must navigate it all together (1 Corinthians 1:10). Part of that task will be determining what constitutes fair use and what amounts to abusing the technology.

What was once unimaginable just a decade or two ago has now become our everyday reality. Therefore, we must ask God for wisdom and discernment to determine a reasonable action for each issue. Part of that journey will include applying Biblical principles to the modern era, which is integral to our mission. It can be challenging to maintain compassion and empathy if we lack a clear understanding of the world we live in. While we do not want to completely immerse ourselves in the things of this world, to an extent, we must be aware of what is happening around us (John 15:19).

In the end, whether social media, A.I., or another avenue of technological advancement, we must prepare to evaluate what constitutes effectively using these systems to advance the Kingdom of God. Likewise, we will encounter grey areas and significant problems that God will help us avoid (Proverbs 16:9). Nevertheless, over time, God will give us the clarity we need to make prudent choices in light of His guidance in our lives (John 14:26).

Given that we are all imperfect and make mistakes, forgiveness is a crucial part of all our lives. It is essential for cultivating, navigating, and enduring a long-term relationship. If we cannot forgive one another, we fail to demonstrate the forgiveness Jesus Christ offers us (Matthew 6:14-15). Furthermore, we hinder our well-being by harboring negative emotions such as anger or bitterness (Ephesians 4:26). Showing Christ-like character involves loving others so that we overlook things that may offend others (Proverbs 19:11). As a bonus, we enjoy God’s peace for demonstrating self-control in avoiding unnecessary disputes and extending forgiveness when appropriate.

Forgiving others who have wronged us can be difficult, but pardoning ourselves can be even more challenging for many people. Instead of carrying the weight of our past transgressions with us, we must surrender those to God (1 Peter 5:6-7). If you have sought forgiveness from God and the party you have wronged when possible and applicable, the next step is to forgive yourself (Hebrews 12:14). God does not want us to live in condemnation (Romans 8:1). He wants us to enjoy freedom. No one benefits from us carrying around the guilt of past sins with them. Embrace that Jesus Christ loves you so much that He paid the price for those mistakes once and for all on the cross (1 Corinthians 6:20, John 3:16).

One of the descriptors for love is that it keeps no record of right and wrong (1 Corinthians 13:4-8). While some things may take time to let go, if we claim to love someone, we should aspire to avoid record-keeping as much as possible. I am not advocating that, as Christians, we should allow people to trample over us and avoid standing up for ourselves. However, we need to exercise discretion and recognize that if this is part of God’s description of love, it merits our undivided attention and obedience. After all, if love covers a multitude of sins, it is certainly capable of helping us when it is time to forgive family, friends, or even strangers as needed throughout our lives (1 Peter 4:8).

It is hard when the one who offended us does not try to apologize. But that may be because the offender did not realize their actions hurt us. However, if Jesus Christ has instructed us to forgive liberally, who are we not to do so (Matthew 18:21-22)? We must overcome obstacles that impede this process, such as pride or stubbornness. It takes a certain degree of humility to confess that we were hurt and to communicate those concerns to the one who offended us.

One way to help you figure out whether or not you have finally forgiven someone for a significant offense is to pray for them. If you can ask God to bless them with His grace and meet their needs, I think it is safe to say you have effectively forgiven them. Of course, you may still remember what they did wrong to you because it was a considerable offense in your eyes, but eventually, you let it go. Sometimes, experiencing something negative can serve as a valuable learning experience or defense mechanism. In addition, it may assist you in preventing similar incidents from happening to you in the future. Recalling the offense should not be something we dwell upon, especially if it triggers anger or bitterness toward them.

Ultimately, forgiveness is an essential part of the Christian life. Jesus Christ is the only One you can count on, never to wrong you. But, unfortunately, anything and everyone else can hurt us from time to time. In every relationship, whether with our spouse, family, friends, or strangers, we must learn how to navigate this reality. We tend not to have high expectations from strangers, so their mistakes or wrongdoings usually don’t affect us as much as those closest to us.

On the flip side, those close to us may hurt us significantly because of how highly we value them, especially when we get so comfortable with them that we take them for granted. As a result, we may be more respectful and considerate of people we hardly know by comparison. If we recall this, we can avoid becoming careless with how we treat those we love the most and treat them with the respect they deserve. We all need to take note of this and improve as God empowers us to do so to maintain harmony in our lives with those we hold closest.

May God help us become better forgivers and people who proactively prevent unnecessary disputes. With this attitude, we will be sure to maintain peace, order, and love in our relationships. Likewise, let us be patient with each other and recognize forgiveness can be a process that takes time. Chances are the more significant the offense, the longer the road to recovery. But it is a road that needs to be traveled whether complete reconciliation is a possibility or the goal becomes parting ways at peace that each person has done their part to move on in due time.

Simultaneously, from then onward, we begin our lives in sanctification (1 Thessalonians 4:3-6). It is the consistent pursuit of Christ-likeness in every avenue of life we find ourselves in. If we only thought of Him as Savior and not Lord, we might think we have no further responsibility than acknowledging He saved us. But it would not make sense to surrender solely to Him as Lord if we did not also know Him as our Savior whose death and subsequent resurrection constituted our redemption. When we take hold of both these realities, we realize we need Him and must surrender to Him as well (Romans 12:1).

Once we trust that Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross paid for all of our sins once and for all, we are motivated to take action. Such a transformation compels us to ask for the forgiveness only Jesus Christ can offer after He provided the propitiation for our sins. In other words, Christ is the only One who completely satisfied God’s wrath through His unfathomable sacrifice on our behalf.

The next step is confessing our sins to God, repenting before God, and receiving forgiveness for all our trespasses (Romans 10:9). If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to cleanse us of all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). In our minds, we understand that God has forgiven us for things that are incomprehensibly offensive to Him. At this point, we decide to avoid practicing iniquity as much as possible and live a praiseworthy lifestyle in His sight. Instead of following the patterns of this world and conforming to society’s whims, we base our foundation for behavior on God’s Word (Romans 12:2). This transformation of turning away from our sins leads us to continue along a path of obedience that empowers us to rely on God to obey His commands (John 15:5).

While we have committed to have a relationship with and follow Jesus Christ in all our ways, it does not mean we are invulnerable to stumbling into sin ever again. But, of course, it is a red flag when such a sin constitutes a habitual sin (Romans 6:23). In such cases, we must urgently seek help from God, prayer, and accountability from a trustworthy believer to win the battle against it. However, when it comes to isolated moments of indiscretion, it is a reality we all cope with as imperfect as we are on this side of Heaven. But we must continue asking God for forgiveness and repent again for such compromises. It is, however, critical for us to avoid opening the door for sin when we know God’s grace is there when we have fallen (Romans 6:1-2).

As believers, critical aspects of our walk with Jesus Christ include core components of Christian discipline such as prayer, Bible study, fellowship with other believers, obeying God’s commands, following the Holy Spirit’s lead, and maintaining a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. All of these are fundamental for us to mature in the faith and cultivate our relationship with Jesus Christ. Life does not become a walk in the park for believers upon getting saved, but it does mean that we have the King of the Universe with us amid all circumstances. He will not leave or forsake His children, and nothing can separate us from His love (Hebrews 13:5, Romans 8:37-39). The assurance of our salvation and His sovereignty are tremendous blessings that help us persevere when facing extreme turmoil or extraordinary challenges.

In seasons of doubt, we must remain faithful that God will come through for us. I find it helpful to remember the countless times God has answered my prayers or opened unexpected doors in my favor. When we recall His perfect track record in our lives, it often reminds us that God will provide for us in the present and the future, just as He did in the past.

A disposition of gratitude for what we have and what is going right in our lives goes a long way in helping us conquer the problems that arise. It also prompts us to communicate to God that we are indeed thankful to Him for his numerous blessings and not solely focused on what is not going according to our plans.

Finally, when things are not all going ideally in our sight, it leads us to seek God more fervently. If not for some issues, we might buy into the illusion that everything we have accomplished was due to our achievement. Rather than recognizing it was all God working in, with, and through us, we might stumble into thinking too highly of ourselves (Romans 12:3). We need to align ourselves with God, avoid thinking of ourselves loftier than we ought, and esteem others more highly than ourselves (Philippians 2:3).

While many of these assertions are simple to say and difficult to execute, these ideas bless us with renewed humility. They also remind us of God’s absolute control and our dire need to rely on Him for everything. Our walk as believers needs to incorporate them if we are to remain steadfast in God’s will, alongside obedience to His commands. If we proactively pursue Jesus Christ and surrender to Him in every avenue possible, everything will fall into its appropriate place (Matthew 6:33).