God's Filters in Our Lives

"Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work." Ephesians 4:14-16 (NIV)

"David said to his son Solomon, "Be strong and courageous and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the Lord is finished." 1 Chronicles 28:29 (NIV)

( *Remember your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit.)

I was thinking about the importance of filters in our lives yesterday as I was cleaning out my goldfish pond. Think about the human body's filtering systems. For example the kidneys filter out impurities and balance our chemical structure.Without them we would die within 24 to 48 hours. Each kidney is only three inches long, but together they filter over 48 gallons of water and blood every day. Forty-seven gallons of those transporting liquids are reabsorbed into our body. We release the other gallon through the final filter system of urination.

As Christian brothers and sisters we need to help each other examine and help sort each others problems. That is why close fellowship with at least a few close believers is so important. Time alone with God and in his word is even more vital for a Christian. God's word is a bright pure light that shines on our soul. If applied it can pierce and remove the crud in our lives. Sometimes it takes another Christian's view to point out our problem areas. Either way, God uses both for correction, which ultimately prolongs our days and our happiness.

"He will guard the feet of His saints, but the wicked will be silenced in darkness.

It is not by strength that one prevails; those who oppose the Lord will be shattered. He will thunder against them in heaven; the Lord will judge the ends of the earth.

He will give strength to his king and exalt the horn of his anointed."

1 Samuel 2: 9 & 10 (NIV)

"So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?

The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this. So God said to him,"Since you have asked for this and not a long life or wealth for yourself, nor have you asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, I will do what you asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be."

1 Kings 3:9-12 (NIV)

Discernment and wisdom are worth more than gold. God's precepts and lifestyle will give you true happiness and a long life. As you please God He will provide; most of the time He will grant you more than you need. But remember He judges your motives more than the actions.

"When calamity comes, the wicked are brought down, but even in death the righteous have a refuge.

Wisdom reposes in the heart of the discerning and even among fools she lets herself be known." Proverbs 14: 32 & 33 (NIV)

Did you notice the Bible says "when calamity comes" it doesn't say if it comes. Everyone will experience pain in life. God isn't being mean or bitter- this is simply part of life. If you were born you will hurt, live through sorrows, and taste bitterness. It's your choice whether to get back up and enjoy the pleasure and happiness in life. Life isn't about waiting for the rain to stop, we have to learn to dance in the rain.

"And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things. whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me- put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:7-9 (NIV)