What does it mean to be clear minded? I believe that myself, and many others struggle with being clear minded, and self controlled. To be able to do this, I feel we must engage three attributes.
- FOCUS-- Focus on God's business. What moves God? His people and us bringing people to know Him.
- DISCIPLINE-- Discipline yourself to keep your eyes on Him in all situations and refer to God's word often!
- PERSEVERANCE-- Do everything as unto God. Do your best, not half way! When you think you've failed, try again. God has used many a loose screw. ALL of our beloved characters in the Bible had their kinks. I'm sure He can work in and through mine and yours!
So back to being clear minded and self-controlled...we need to read the verses after 1 Peter 4:7. The Bible gives us a check list of things to do to attain clear mindedness. And let's face it...we could all use a little more clear mindedness. Here's the checklist:
- Above all love others to cover a multitude of sins. (BTW- "love others" encompasses everyone!)
- Be hospitable (to everyone)
- Use your talents to give away God's grace (to everyone). Remember that we are giving away the very word of God as we talk about Him, and that because he gives us His strength...it's all good.
- Lastly...and this is an important one. It's not about you and me! The above three were all about loving, and serving everyone else but ourselves. When we focus, discipline ourselves, and persevere in doing these things, we have not only blessed someone else, God is blessed by us and He is given the glory the bible says. And when we stop the self serving and serve others, God then gives out his good measure to us, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, poured in your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured to you. (Luke 6:38)
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