Values That Matter To The Lord
Photograph by Dana Long
Strong values are vital in this day + age. If you do not form a solid foundation of your beliefs, you will be susceptible to any new way of thinking. The Lord has values as well. There are certain things He looks for in His people. When we adapt and strengthen the values in our lives, we are creating that firm foundation The Lord can use to build on.
- Trust
Psalm 44:1-12 New International Version
Our trust should not be what we ourselves can do. (V.3) It was not by their sword that they won the land nor did their arm bring them victory; It was your right hand, your arm, and the light of your face, for you loved them. (V.7) but you give us victory over our enemies, you put our adversaries to shame. The small victories that are won each day, they are not conquered by our own strength. When we put our trust in The Lord, He will fight our battles, and He will, in turn, trust us with lost souls and others who need to know Him.
- Courage
Luke 13:31-14:14 New International Version
Sometimes I make extreme decisions based on fear. If I know a sale is about to close, I will do some major shopping for fear I might lose out on an amazing product. If I know, I'm about to go into a process, and I might not like the finished result, once again fear creeps in. I feel defeated before I even begin. When Jesus walked the Earth, He was a man of great courage. He was crucified after only three short years of ministry. Jesus had the courage to take on the most powerful + evil men of that time. We have not been given the spirit of fear. (II Timothy 2:17) Any doubt or anxiousness to please others is from the enemy. The Lord values courage.
- Compassion
Luke 13:34 New International Version
This verse talks about a mother hen showing compassion for her chicks by hiding them under her wing. Compassion for others should also be a natural human response. When we see those in need, it should stir up a spirit of willingness to intervene. Look at all the miracles scattered throughout The Word because Jesus had compassion. The blind, the lame, the deaf, even the deceased! Jesus was so driven by compassion; He became the supreme sacrifice and died on the cross for us.
- Humility
Luke 14:10-11 New International Version
They say everyone is humble until it is brought to their attention and they agree! Many people make light of humility because it is so unnatural for people to do things they feel are "beneath them." The Word teaches us that the humble will be exalted. (V.10) But when you are invited, take the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he will say to you, ‘Friend, move up to a better place.’ Then you will be honored in the presence of all the other guests. (V.11) For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Serving others should be one of the most fulfilling things we can do as children of God. When we humble ourselves that allows others to see beauty of The Lord within us.
- Generosity
Deuteronomy 15:1-16:20 New International Version
Do you ever find yourself holding back financially for whatever reason? I'll be the first to admit, I've cheated the offering plate because there was something else on my mind. Deuteronomy 15:7-8 elaborates on being tightfisted rather than open-handed and giving to all who are in need. Your giving response is The Lord's generosity to you. So when the time comes to bless an area of the church or a ministry that goes beyond the four walls of the church building, be obedient and understand The Lord loves a cheerful giver. This includes finances, talent, and time for the kingdom.
The things that matter to The Lord should matter to us. We were created in His image so our actions should mirror His actions and His values should become our values. When we sincerely strive to be more like Him in these areas, we can begin to see His blessings with our efforts.
