Let’s look at the rest of those rings!
2. Surrendering-upon deciding to serve God in His sufferings, we surrender our lives to Him. Romans 12:1 reads: Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God-this is your true and proper worship.
3. Longsuffering-We must stay in for the long haul come rain or shine, storms of all types, including criticism, sickness, persecution, etc. It is one of the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22, NIV).
4. Entering- In fellowshipping with God, we enter His presence in the throne room in the holiest (place) by the blood of Jesus (Hebrews 10:19).
5. Persevering-We can overcome all obstacles with our focus on Jesus. Romans 5:3-5(NIV) reads: Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character, and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love is poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
6. Prospering-John wants us to prosper in health. We need care for our bodies and our minds. We need rest as well as activities that rejuvenate us for the tasks ahead. 3 John 1:2 reads, Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and to be in good health, just as your soul prospers (NASB).
7. Remembering-We need to remember our family in Christ. Meet the needs of others. Hebrews 13:3-NASB: Remember the prisoners as if chained with them-those who are ill-treated, since you yourselves also are in the body (of Christ), parenthesis mine.
8. Offering-Giving of that which God has given us for expanding His kingdom as well as giving ourselves to God’s service. Offer your life for His sake; the sake of the gospel. Romans 12:1 reads: Therefore, I urge you brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God-this is your true and proper worship.”
9. Gathering-Strengthen your walk with God. Hebrews 10:25 reads: Not neglecting to gather together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day approaching.
10. Sheltering-Don’t function out of your own strength! Plug in to God! “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most- High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty,” (Psalm 91:1 ESV).
….To Be Continued!…
God Bless!
Sam