Today is my 67th birthday and this month is Bible Love Note’s 7th birthday, so please allow me to depart from my usual format.

I’d like to share some of my observations after 40 years of Christian ministry, leading Bible studies, teaching Bible seminars, working with Christian women’s groups, doing overseas Christian work, editing devotions, writing a blog, doing ministry on social media, and being a wife, mother, and grandmother.

1. Christians aren’t the same, and it’s a good thing.
I love the diversity of the Body of Christ: “every nation, tribe, people and language” (Revelation 7:9).

It is my prayer that I will fully appreciate and enjoy how Jesus is honored in different cultures and different denominations.

2. Some Christians are growing and some are perpetual babies.
Those who mature in Christ are regularly studying Scripture and letting it shape their lives (1 Thessalonians 1:4-6). Immature believers aren’t serious about growing in their faith (Hebrews 5:11-13).

It is my prayer that I will always be deliberate about my walk with the Lord, always seeking to know Christ better.

3. Christians view Scripture differently.
Some Christians form their beliefs based on Scripture, just like the noble Bereans (Acts 17:11). Some hold fast to half-truth errors even when Scripture refutes them (2 Timothy 4:3).

There are many popular beliefs in Christian circles that are simply worldly philosophies repackaged using Christian words. They do serious damage to our walk with the Lord. The only remedy is a deeper respect for God’s Word and a commitment to check all teachings, no matter how popular, against the words of Scripture.

It is my prayer that I will not be taken captive by human philosophies that contradict God’s Word (Colossians 2:8).

4. Christians don’t disagree the same. 
Some state their opinions kindly and humbly (Colossians 4:6). Others state their views rudely (Proverbs 15:18).

It is my prayer that I will hold my tongue unless I can share my views in love (Ephesians 4:14-15).

5. Christians don’t view culture the same.
Some stand on Biblical principles, no matter how unpopular (Galatians 1:10; 2 Timothy 4:2). Some change their beliefs to accommodate culture (Proverbs 29:25;Psalms 12:8; John 12:43).

Culture tests Christians daily. Will we stand up for the “hard” parts of the Gospel or buckle under the pressure? The pressure comes not only from the world but also from compromised Christians.

It is my prayer that I will stand firm so one day Jesus may say to me, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23). 

6. Christians view Jesus differently. 
Some know Him and realize He spoke about sin and judgement as well as grace and love (John 15:18). Some don’t know Him and think His purpose was to make people feel good about themselves (2 Corinthians 11:14).

Misunderstandings about God’s character are the source of many false teachings.

It is my prayer to genuinely know Christ even if involves hardship and persecution (Philippians 3:10). 

7. Christians don’t have the same committment.
God’s love is wonderful and it should inspire deep committment. Some Christians motivated by His great love are focused on glorifying God no matter the cost. Some are focused on personal gain, health, wealth, and comfort.

Everyone loves the benefits of Christian faith – and there are many. But genuine believers also submit to the responsibilities and difficulties of faith (John 14:21).

My prayer for this coming year is that my devotions will not only encourage others to love Jesus more fully, but they will also encourage me to love Him more fully.

I feel incredibly blessed by my readers who give me the opportunity each weekday to share truths from God’s wonderful Word! Thank you!  Gail