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The Greatest Mission

The mission of Christ was that of love. Throughout His ministry, He showed us all with example what love truly meant and how it was to be lived out. It was out of His love that mercy for us came and saved us from the death that was to be our payment for our sin. 

His love for us and the mercy that He had for us, took Him to the cross. But it did not end there for Him because His love and mercy isn’t the same as what we perceive them to be. Rather the love and mercy of Christ is something that is so active and in motion that death was left powerless against Him. 

Having commanded us to do the same, let us take this to heart and make love our personal mission as well. Let us also be Christians who are full of mercy towards those that need it. Our world needs this so much right now. 

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Image Series: General (#wtscreatives #general)

When the Storm comes, Run to Jesus

 “Oh, that I knew where I might find him, that I might come even to his seat!” + Job 23:3

In Job’s uttermost extremity he cried after the Lord. The longing desire of an afflicted child of God is once more to see his Father’s face. His first prayer is not “O that I might be healed of the disease which now festers in every part of my body!” nor even “O that I might see my children restored from the jaws of the grave, and my property once more brought from the hand of the spoiler!” but the first and uppermost cry is, “O that I knew where I might find Him, who is my God! That I might come even to his seat!”

God’s children run home when the storm comes on. It is the heaven-born instinct of a gracious soul to seek shelter from all ills beneath the wings of Jehovah. “He that hath made his refuge God” might serve as the title of a true believer. A hypocrite, when afflicted by God, resents the infliction, and, like a slave, would run from the Master who has scourged him. But not so the true heir of heaven; he kisses the hand which smote him, and seeks shelter from the rod in the bosom of the God who frowned upon him.

Job’s desire to commune with God was intensified by the failure of all other sources of consolation. The patriarch turned away from his sorry friends, and looked up to the celestial throne, just as a traveller turns from his empty skin bottle, and betakes himself with all speed to the well. He bids farewell to earth-born hopes, and cries, “O that I knew where I might find my God!”

Nothing teaches us so much the preciousness of the Creator as when we learn the emptiness of all besides. Turning away with bitter scorn from earth’s hives, where we find no honey, but many sharp stings, we rejoice in him whose faithful word is sweeter than honey or the honeycomb. In every trouble we should first seek to realize God’s presence with us. Only let us enjoy his smile, and we can bear our daily cross with a willing heart for his dear sake.

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Devotional Series Adapted from: Morning & Evening

God can do Anything (Ephesians 3:20 - MSG)

Too often we underestimate the ability of God in our lives. Although we may not realize it, we prove this point when we start to worry and think that we might fail at something. 

If you are feeling worried and uncertain about the future, take the time today to ask God to give you the strength to believe that even in the most impossible of situations, things can turn around by His power.

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Image Series: General (#wtscreatives #general)

Give Freely

“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.” + Matthew 5:38–42

We all have been wronged. So we have to ask the question: How do we respond?

How do you respond at your job when someone seems to be out to get you? How do you respond when someone you thought was a friend is saying hurtful things about you? Do you change jobs? Do you move? Do you get even?

In Matthew 5:38–42, Jesus walks us through a response.

The first thing we come across is this phrase, “An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth”. Jesus is referencing an Old Testament law found in three places:Exodus 21, Leviticus 24, and Deuteronomy 19. It was part of the law in regard to punishment for a crime and was civil in nature, administered by judges and priests. Specifically, it was to ensure that people weren’t punished excessively.

Jesus aims, not to refute this law, but to put it in it’s proper context and address how we distort it relationally. He gives multiple examples of how we should resist the desire to get even, and instead give freely.

To those who hurt you—Jesus says to give the other cheek (v. 39).

To those who take from you—Jesus says to give additional items (v. 40).

To those who take advantage of your time—Jesus says to give them more time (v. 41).

Now, we have to take all of this in context. Jesus is not saying you should be a doormat. We see Jesus standing up for injustice in the temple with the moneychangers. In the book of Acts we see Paul confronting Peter over his hypocrisy. There are times when you’ll need to stand up and fight injustice, but here’s the key: it’s not for selfish gain. Jesus is getting to the heart. He is calling us to give freely because he knows our deeply rooted desire to get even.

Jesus not only called us to this, he modeled it.

We all have wronged Jesus with our sin. And instead of getting even, he gave—he gave his life freely on a cross. If you haven’t given your life to Jesus, it’s impossible to give freely to others, especially those who have wronged you. If you have given your life to Jesus, you are empowered to give as he did.

Now, what does this functionally look like? Consider these steps.

When wronged . . .

1. TALK TO JESUS BEFORE YOU TALK TO OTHERS

Don’t get swallowed up in gossip or slander. Talk to Jesus about your hurt, your desire to get even. Own any part you may have in confession and repentance. Shift your focus from the one who has wronged you to the one who gave himself for you.

2. GIVE FREELY BECAUSE JESUS HAS GIVEN TO YOU

Practically, take steps toward reconciliation. Give grace. Give forgiveness. Give love. And when you’ve given all that you can, step back. It doesn’t mean you wash your hands of it, but it means you fix your eyes on Jesus and wait for when he might have you reengage.

3. ENTRUST YOUR CASE TO JESUS

Some of you think if you don’t make your case, no one will. 1 John 2:1 describes Jesus as your advocate. He is making your case. If you have placed your faith in him, you have been justified before the God of the universe. Who else do you need to make your case to? Entrust it to him.

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Devotional Series: by Tim Birdwell

An illustrated piece to share my thoughts on the trafficking of women for the purpose of profit.

Women are not objects for sale but are rather creations of God with value and worth that can’t be measured or priced. 

This is my very first attempt at something like this and please do share your thoughts so that it would help me improve in the future. :)

Walking in the Light

This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. + 1 John 1:5–10

DISCUSS

How does John describe the Christian life in 1 John 1:9?

How does your faith in Jesus change your view of sin?

Is it possible to have faith in God and continue living in sin? Explain why or why not.

How does “walking in the light” encourage you to live your life before God and others? (See John 3:19–21.)

Why is repentance such an important part of the Christian life? What are the consequences if we are unwilling to repent? (See 1 John 1:6–10.)

Do you consider yourself someone who is quick to repent? What causes us to delay in repenting?

The theme of our study is “love one another.” How does this week’s passage relate to John’s big idea and his hope for Jesus’ church?

PRAY

Pray for everyone in the group to come to a greater understanding of God—that he is light (i.e., holy)—and how he desires for us to live by faith in Christ, trusting his cleansing work, not ours.

Pray for your group to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling,” knowing that “it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Phil. 2:12–13).

DO

This week’s text dives into the depths of our heart and life by examining whether or not we are walking in the light. This text provides a great opportunity to encourage your group to walk in the light with God and with one another. Depending on the makeup of your group, you can consider one of the following options:

Set aside some time at the end of your session for confession, prayer, and encouragement. You can keep the group together as a whole, or consider breaking up into smaller groups.

If you don’t have enough time, encourage people to get together outside of group time for confession, prayer, and encouragement.

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Devotional Series: John Study Guide

I’ve been seeing people write different sayings and quotes on the side of their Bibles a lot lately, and I didn’t want to go with the crowd, but I did want to make a point on my Bible and write something that was important to me.  I first heard this quote said by Bill Hybels at the Hillsong Conference in Sydney Australia in July. It’s based after the verse of Luke 5:5 which says: 

“ Simon answered, ‘Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.’”

This shows Simon’s willingness to commit not only to what Jesus said, but His ways. I want to continue this in my life and take direction of what God has asked me to do. I want this to be a remind each time I open my Bible, or pick it up.

You are my Saviour

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Image Series: General (#wtscreatives #general)

With all your Might

 “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might . . .” + Ecclesiastes 9:10

“Whatever your hand finds to do,” refers to works that are possible. There are many things which our heart finds to do which we never shall do. It is well it is in our heart; but if we would be eminently useful, we must not be content with forming schemes in our heart, and talking of them; we must practically carry out “whatever our hand finds to do.” One good deed is more worth than a thousand brilliant theories. Let us not wait for large opportunities, or for a different kind of work, but do just the things we “find to do” day by day. We have no other time in which to live. The past is gone; the future has not arrived; we never shall have any time but time present.

Then do not wait until your experience has ripened into maturity before you attempt to serve God. Endeavour now to bring forth fruit. Serve God now, but be careful as to the way in which you perform what you find to do—“do it with your might.” Do it promptly; do not fritter away your life in thinking of what you intend to do tomorrow as if that could recompense for the idleness of today. No man ever served God by doing things tomorrow. If we honor Christ and are blessed, it is by the things which we do today. Whatever you do for Christ throw your whole soul into it. Do not give Christ a little slurred labor, done as a matter of course now and then; but when you do serve him, do it with heart, and soul, and strength.

But where is the might of a Christian? It is not in himself, for he is perfect weakness. His might lies in the Lord of Hosts. Then let us seek his help; let us proceed with prayer and faith, and when we have done what our “hand finds to do,” let us wait upon the Lord for his blessing. What we do thus will be well done, and will not fail in its effect.

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Devotional Series: Morning & Evening

Perfect Gifts

With an awesome weekend upon all of us, let us remind ourselves that all of our gifts and blessings were not the result of our own doing but was that of the graciousness of our good God. Let us never forget all that He has done for us and praise Him every moment we get.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone.

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Image Series: General (#wtscreatives #general)

A Love that never Fails

"Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; but I tell you, not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these."But if God so clothes the grass in the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, how much more will He clothe you? - Luke 12:26-28

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Image Series: General (#wtscreatives #general)

Photo by: Haley \  Personal // Walk the Same // Color Movement

Online Bible Study + $50 Gift Card Giveaway | Walk the Same - 16th September, Tuesday 2014 

Hey All,

Theme for this Study: Our Sovereign God

Today (in a few hours), we well be studying Chapter 9 from our continuation from the Book of Romans series. We will be studying the sovereignty of God in our world and all of mankind. 

> Bible Study Giveaway:

On Tuesday the 26th August we commenced our Bible Study exclusive giveaway that will run up until the Tuesday the 16th September. We will be choosing one winner to win a $50 gift card where the winner can choose from either Sevenly, Walk in Love or Votum at Society6. 

Instructions to Be part of this Giveaway:

Join us for Bible Study (Details provided below)

Take note of the theme covered via the description above

During the course of the study, our Bible Study leader will be sharing several Bible verses. However only one verse directly relates to the theme of the study. Identify this verse and write it down.

The same process (Steps 1-3) should be followed for 4 (four) Bible Study sessions (starting 26th August) until Tuesday the 16th September. You will need to collect a total of 4 Bible verses (relevant to the theme covered on each day) to be eligible for the giveaway.

Once you have collected the 4 Bible Verses, head over to our giveaway page here, and enter the required details including the 4 Bible Verses you have collected.

The first person to submit all four correct Bible Verses wins the $50 gift card to either Sevenly, Walk in Love or Votum. 

> Study Details:

Visit the Bible Study page to download the notes which you will find helpful when following this study during the course of this session. The reference guide for the study will be available for download shortly after the study has concluded.

The chat will take place at : http://tinychat.com/walkthesame

Date & Time : 16th September, Tuesday @ 7:00 PM US Eastern Standard Time

The study will take place in the form of interactive group discussions in order to have everyone involved. We are absolutely excited and we hope that you will join us with your Bibles for a Blessed evening. Spread the word and let your friends know.

If you have any questions regarding the study or our giveaway, feel free to get hold of us on our Ask or alternatively you can reach us on our email [email protected].

Love & Blessings,

A Cheerful Heart (Proverbs 17:22)

Being cheerful and happy does work wonders in our life. Not only does it help us push forward through our day but it also reflects the peaceful nature of Christ. Life may bring us moments which may leave us vulnerable and broken but, in times like that, let us have faith that God will take us through the season no matter what it may be. 

With belief and faith, we can always be cheerful everyday no matter the storms outside.

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Image Series: General (#wtscreatives #general)

Photo and Modelled by: Haley \  Personal // Walk the Same // Color Movement

LIMITED RUN: FAITH CAN MOVE

Don’t forget that this awesome T-Shirt is on a limited run. The final day to purchase this tee is on Friday September 19 at 2:00 PM EDT.

(Note: Please note that this t-shirt goes on print when we get 12 or more t-shirts pre-ordered in total by you guys before the deadline date. Only 10 more to go before the t-shirt goes on print. Hurry and get yours now!)

ABOUT THIS TEE - 

It only takes a little faith to conquer the greater things in life. It is only through faith that we can follow Christ.

T-Shirt Availability: Mens & Womens

Shirt Material: Tri-Blend

Manufacturer: American Apparel

Shirt Color: Tri-Black

Ink Type: Water-Based

To purchase this tee, click HERE!!!

With all your Might

 “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might . . .” + Ecclesiastes 9:10

“Whatever your hand finds to do,” refers to works that are possible. There are many things which our heart finds to do which we never shall do. It is well it is in our heart; but if we would be eminently useful, we must not be content with forming schemes in our heart, and talking of them; we must practically carry out “whatever our hand finds to do.” One good deed is more worth than a thousand brilliant theories. Let us not wait for large opportunities, or for a different kind of work, but do just the things we “find to do” day by day. We have no other time in which to live. The past is gone; the future has not arrived; we never shall have any time but time present.

Then do not wait until your experience has ripened into maturity before you attempt to serve God. Endeavour now to bring forth fruit. Serve God now, but be careful as to the way in which you perform what you find to do—“do it with your might.” Do it promptly; do not fritter away your life in thinking of what you intend to do tomorrow as if that could recompense for the idleness of today. No man ever served God by doing things tomorrow. If we honor Christ and are blessed, it is by the things which we do today. Whatever you do for Christ throw your whole soul into it. Do not give Christ a little slurred labor, done as a matter of course now and then; but when you do serve him, do it with heart, and soul, and strength.

But where is the might of a Christian? It is not in himself, for he is perfect weakness. His might lies in the Lord of Hosts. Then let us seek his help; let us proceed with prayer and faith, and when we have done what our “hand finds to do,” let us wait upon the Lord for his blessing. What we do thus will be well done, and will not fail in its effect.

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Devotional Series: Morning & Evening