If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed

If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? And,

“If it is hard for the righteous to be saved,

    what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”

1 PETER 4:14-18

Self reliance is the enemy of the house of God. What can a mere human - a creation by the most high God - do for the creator of the moon and stars? Self thought - self ability - is not giving of yourself. You must no longer live in the flesh to see Jesus in you. All things are God's. When all reliance is on God, all is made whole in God.

This is how the metal is purified. It must be burned in the fire, thus a new shape may emerge. A beautiful new creation set apart for the purpose of him - for Christ Jesus. His will must live in you - abandon your heart and mind to God.

Salvation is a gift and plan conceived and created by God, not man. Man cannot fathom God, though every effort is made to do so. Jesus Christ is the good news. He is risen and has freed us from sin. Salvation is not an experience but rather a new way, the way to heaven through Christ Jesus. Salvation occurs in the giving over your understanding and turning your old ways to his way. For those that find it difficult to get to God, never sympathize with them. A Christian worker does not rationalize why God is difficult, but rather presents the good news of salvation in the name of Jesus Christ.