Proper Perspective

4 Minutes a day=1 day a year=75 days a lifetime.

Any idea what time this is being spent? It is brushing our teeth over our lifetime assuming we live to about 80 and start brushing at 5.

We all waste time! None of us will every be 100% efficient.

Let me also said this: our world is not going to get more and more efficient and able to never waste. We are not “progressing” in a true sense of the word.

4 steps to almost guarantee a church will always exist.

Sounds almost too good to be true doesn’t it? However, I think Peter has given a roadmap which would make this possible. My disclaimer: sometimes God may allow or force churches to “close” in order for something different to take place. God is sovereign and we are not.

1. Remember Jesus is coming back.

Having a proper perspective on end times is absolutely crucial. Jesus’ return is certain, the timing is not from our point of view. Remembering that because he is coming back we will face judgment keeps us on the right path of living. EVERYONE WILL BE JUDGED!!!

2. Praying is essential.

Notice, and I don’t think I am making too much of this, Peter says we have a proper perspective so that we may be pray. The result of having clear thinking is not action first; it is prayer first. In order to use your Spiritual Gifts you must pray about what they are and when you are to use them. God calls us into seasons of rest and seasons of service. The way we discern it is by praying.

3. Love passionately, truthfully, consistently and deeply towards other Christians.

Peter quotes a proverb that I believe we must be reminded of its true meaning. Peter is not saying love means there is no sin but because there is sin we must love one another and show forgiveness. This is not an anythings goes mindset (the verses of 4.1-6 show otherwise) but that because of love what would divide us will not. Love stops the cycle of bitterness, hatred, pettiness, and the air out of many things.

4. Stewards God’s gifts by using them to help others.

This is how we must have a proper perspective on our giftedness. It is, once again, not about us!! Don’t sit on His gifts.

Jesus gets all the credit.

Why do we do this? Because Jesus is the reason we have them. Why do we remember he is coming back? Because Jesus is the true King. Why should I live differently? Because I am a citizen of another country. Why can I love others that hurt me? Because Jesus did! Why can I suffer for doing good and standing for truth? Because the most horrific evil act of humanity bought my salvation.