Jude urges the saints to staunchly defend (epagonizomai), vigorously fight for and protect the faith handed down to them by the Apostles. This fight was against false brethren (Gnostics), apostates who had covertly joined their fellowship, pretending to be brothers in Christ, but who in actuality were introducing false doctrine into Christ’s church.
Joy and happiness are not the same! “Happiness” comes from the word happenings and is emotions based on circumstances. Happiness therefore is superficial and temporary because circumstances change: Jobs end, health changes, new cars wear out, people disappoint us. Happiness, like joy, is a gift from God. We simply need to know the difference.
Outlook determines outcome; attitude determines altitude! It’s a life-lesson the Apostle Paul mastered — and fleshed out for us in his letter to the Philippians! (Consider reading this marvelous letter to learn how you too can develop a positive life-outlook!). As someone has wisely put it: “Focus is literally your key to stripping everything of its power.”
I want to tell you, you’re not unknown or insignificant to God! Listen to what He says of you: “Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands” Isaiah 49:15-16.
Matthew 8:16-17: “When evening came, many who were demon possessed were brought to Him, and He drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick. This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: ‘He took up our infirmities and carried our diseases.’”
What needs to go in your life? Chances are you know what it is! From countless examples detailed in the Bible (as well as personal experience!), here’s a tip worth heeding: To avoid a pruning, a shearing from God, eliminate it yourself!
If the Lord delights in guiding birds in their migrations, isn’t it reasonable to assume He wants to guide our lives? Sure — and yet I find a major source of stress common with Christians is reluctance when it comes to decision making and the will of God; doubts either that He is leading us or that His intentions for us are good.