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5 Ways to Let Your Light Shine
It’s easy to hide, isn’t it? But, is that what we’re called to in our Christian walk? Absolutely not! We are the light of the world, and in order to be a city set on a hill, we must…
This is a sponsored post. I’m very excited to introduce you to my friends at Good News T-Shirts!
Has anyone ever asked you if you were a Christian? I can recall the first time someone asked me. The question surprised me, but also blessed me at the same time. I won’t retell the full story here (you can find it in this post), but I will say that there is something very important about ensuring that your actions, words, and demeanor reflect our risen Savior. At the time of this person asking me, I don’t think that I was necessarily an amazing reflection of Christ (I was a fairly new believer at the time– I barely knew anything!); however, I suppose there was enough of His light shining through me during that interaction, that it was noticeable to this (seemingly) other believer.
Since that day, I’ve learned that there is an intentionality we must have in our walk with Christ. He tells us that we are the salt of the earth, and the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-14). And, as the light of the world, we are to let our light shine.
That’s what we’re going to chat about today; and that is what I see exude from the sponsors of this post, Good News T-Shirts! This family-owned business understands what it means to be a light, and as the makers of uplifting Christian apparel, they’re here to help equip us to be so as well. But, you see, it’s not about the products, no matter how high quality (which they are!). It’s about the Lord, and the heart behind their business— their desire to spread the good news to everyone they— and we— encounter. Companies like these remind us to stay plugged into the Lord so we can keep our light bright.
You Are the Light of the World
Before we dive into how to let your light shine, let’s first pause and read the verses that contain the well-known truth spoken by Jesus, “you are the light of the world”:
“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”
The amazing thing about this statement is that Jesus first said it about Himself! We find in various Scriptures, such as John 8:12, that Jesus refers to Himself as the Light of the world. Jesus came to bring light to a dark world; to bring hope and life, and free us from the power of sin and death. The kingdom of darkness cannot hold a candle to the kingdom of Light— the kingdom of the Beloved Son.
So then, as we are now in Christ— those who follow Christ and have been made new in Him— we are the light. Because He is in us, we are now the light bearers with the responsibility of shining the light of Christ through our lives as we share the gospel and live as the hands and feet of Jesus. What a high call and responsibility; something that can only be done by His grace!
Ephesians 5:9 says, “For the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness, and truth.” As the light of the world, you and I are to represent goodness, righteousness, and truth. All of these things can only be found in the Lord, which is why it’s so imperative that we abide in Him. Our fellowship should be with the Lord, not with the darkness. The light shining through us will not only expose the darkness, but also bring into view those things which are acceptable to the Lord. As believers, we are challenged by the fact that we are automatically deemed as the light of the world; yet, as with anything in our Christian walk, it takes intentionality and wise decisions to carry out this high calling the Lord has placed on our lives. {There’s so much more that could be said! You can dive slightly deeper into this topic— moving from darkness into light— in this post.}
NEVER MISS A DOSE OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Sometimes, we all need a little boost in our faith walk. Here at A Woman Created On Purpose, we love to sprinkle you with a little dash of encouragement and exhortation to help you flourish in your purpose. Subscribe below and never miss a post, an uplifting devotional, or free resources. Fill out the form below.
Let Your Light Shine
Sister, I’ll say it again– this is why I truly appreciate companies and ministries like my friends at Good News T-Shirts. They are ready and willing to be a light in a dark world. Their owner, Sarah, said of their brand, that they are a family-owned business, “dedicated to spreading God's Word through Scripture-based apparel. Our mission is to create meaningful, conversation-starting t-shirts that encourage faith, discipleship, and sharing the Good News of Jesus.”
Do you hear the intentionality in that? It’s not just about creating t-shirts, bags, and other apparel with cute sayings to make a quick sale— the underworking of their mission is to let the light of Christ shine in all they do and create, while providing you with a tool that sparks conversation and gives you a practical opportunity to be a light in the world.
Let’s not miss the grace of God in the fact that believers are the light of the world– the grace we see in that we were once darkness, but now are light in the Lord (Ephesians 5:8— go read it!). Take notice– the interesting thing about this verse is that it doesn’t say that we were once IN darkness— it says that we WERE darkness. Although the former thought is true as well, in that we fumbled around blindly, in darkness before Christ rescued us, it’s also eye-opening to realize that we, in and of ourselves, once were darkness. Inside of us was a void, and we were darkness. But now, in Christ, we are light! We can walk in His light, yes, but by the grace of God, we are light!
After telling us that we are the light of the world in Matthew 5, Jesus goes on to say that a city set on a hill cannot be hidden. It was built there for a reason— to be exposed, noticeable, and to light up the surrounding landscape. That’s us! Jesus is building us on a proverbial hill, with the intent that we would remain on the hill, not go and hide under a basket. Good News T-Shirts, like so many of you, is choosing to remain steadfast and rooted on that hill, with a willing heart to bring the light of Christ to a dark world.
How to Let Your Light Shine
The purpose of being the light of the world is to bring the Truth to the world, so that God may be glorified (Matthew 5:16). This is why Jesus says that it’s no use for a lamp to be hidden under a basket. Under a basket, the light is muffled, easily overcome by darkness, and reaches no one. It has a weakened ability to bring glory to God.
May we not hide under a basket, sister! Finally, let’s chat about how to let your light shine in some practical ways. Of course, this is in no way an exhaustive list— just a handful of things I believe line up with Scripture, that were on my heart to share, and can be practically done, in His strength!
(Hint: Don’t miss the promo code for a special offer from Good News T-Shirts, exclusively for my readers!).
#1: Abide in Christ
First and foremost, the only way we can properly give off the light we’ve been given is to abide in the Light Himself. In John 12, Jesus refers to Himself as light, telling His listeners that they had Him present with them as light, and they should believe in the light, lest they walk in darkness and it overcome them (verse 35). Believing in the light in turn would allow them to become sons of light (verse 36), and therefore they would no longer abide in darkness (verse 46).
In Christ, we are free from the darkness, but we also must decide to abide in the Light— in Christ. It’s a daily decision to rest in His ways, believe His promises, and allow Him to direct our steps. Abiding in Him allows us to draw from His strength and bear the fruit in our lives that pleases Him. Without Him, we can do nothing (John 15), so why try to be His witness to a dark world on our own? It will be of no avail. We must stay as closely connected as possible to the vine—the ultimate power source— so our light shines all the more brightly.
#2: Study the Word
When you think of a light source, such as a lamp, in order to operate as it was designed to do, it must first be connected to the ultimate power source, which gives it its power and ability to produce light. Within that connection, there has to be an understanding of what this ultimate source is doing for the light source as it is connected; there has to be a belief in the power and ability of the ultimate source to create and sustain the light in which the lamp is producing. And, there has to be a trust in the ultimate source that the electrical current being provided is safe, true, and exactly what the lamp needs. Otherwise, the lamp would have no desire to stay connected to the source.
I know I’m personifying a lamp, but just go with me for a second!
This is all true for us too, sister, as we are the lights who need to trust in the Ultimate Light. We come to know, understand, and trust the Lord more by first abiding, but also by being faithful to study His Word. The Scriptures communicate the truth of who He is— His character, attributes, and promises. The degree to which our light shines brightly is greatly affected by how much we believe Him, and believe in Him. We must know unarguably and undoubtedly that He is faithful, honorable, and true, and that He will keep our path lit (Psalm 119:105) so that we can light the path for others straight back to Him.
Allow Him to speak to you in your quiet time, through prayer, and in the studying of His Word. You will miss so much of Him if you are skimping on your Bible time. Let’s be sisters who are faithful to read and live out His Word!
#3. Yield to the Spirit
In Christ, we have the Spirit in us, and He will guide us into all Truth, as His work is to glorify the Lord (John 16:13-14). Therefore, to effectively walk in the light and let our light shine, following the promptings of the Holy Spirit is the best way to ensure our actions are pleasing to the Father.
There are many times we may want to follow our flesh and avoid a situation, a particular conversation, or a specific person because we fear it may get awkward. We fear we may be rejected when we start speaking the Truth. But if it’s what the Lord wants us to do in that moment, then we should trust that He has a purpose and will give us the courage to speak and the words to say.
It is not for our glory anyway, so let’s not worry about feeling awkward! I’m speaking to myself here, too. Remember, letting our light shine is for the glory of the Father, and the Spirit will make sure that happens if we walk in Him in those moments.
#4: Fellowship
Fellowship with other believers may seem a little out of place here, since we’re talking about being a city set on a hill and how to let your light shine— all of which make us immediately think of reaching a dark world. And indeed, this is what we’re talking about. However, let’s not forget that rubbing shoulders with other lights can aid in keeping you grounded in your faith via encouragement and exhortation. We need Christ, and we need each other! Our gifts serve others, perhaps giving them the inspiration and courage to step out and let their light shine a little brighter. And, they can do the same for you. Let’s not forsake fellowship and gathering with other believers (Hebrews 10:24-25).
#5: Don’t Hold Back
This one takes us back to my friends at Good News T-Shirts. Sister, when I see a person or a company that is unashamed of the gospel of Christ and willing to put themselves out there with the sole mission of bringing others to Him, it exhilarates me. This is what this brand stands for. From the first time we spoke, and in viewing their website, I could tell that they have a passion for simplicity— a simplicity that keeps the focus on Christ. There’s no need for extra fluff, gimmicks, or flashy ways to attract people. It’s Christ alone at the forefront of Good News T-Shirts, and He is enough.
They are dedicated to sharing God’s Word through their apparel and are dedicated to spreading encouragement and sparking conversations. This is what I mean by “don’t hold back”. Some of us have no trouble opening our mouths and proclaiming the gospel, anytime, anywhere. Others of us tend to be more hesitant. That’s where the family behind this brand steps in, using their gifts to help build up other believers. Pop on a t-shirt or carry a tote bag donned with the pure Word of God—not catchy sayings— and you’ve got an instant conversation starter. The simplicity of the t-shirt designs doesn’t distract from the ability to make Scripture the focal point, which allows those around you to encounter the Word of God and allows you an opportunity to be a light in the world. Others may ask you what the verse you’re wearing means, or why you chose that Scripture, and you have an instant opportunity to let your light shine— to proclaim the good news of the gospel and the power of God.
Not only are we not holding back as we wear Scripture, but in the process of deciding to do so, we are likely walking through the other 4 points on which we just touched:
When we’re abiding in Christ, we’re gaining a better understanding of His character and gaining the peace that only He gives, therefore making us more relaxed, open, and willing to do whatever He wants us to do to glorify His name.
Studying the Word gives us the ability to understand and interpret these verses, which can bring clarity to the conversations we may have with those who ask.
More trust in the Lord and His promises gives us the regular desire to yield to the Spirit, perhaps even in the moments when we’re getting dressed and He tells us to put on our Scripture-based t-shirt. As silly as that sounds, we can trust that He has a purpose and plan for it, and He knows who may need to see the verse on our shirt or bag that day. We can also yield to the Spirit in those moments when we know He’s calling us to speak up and share the gospel or the Truth of the Word.
And, as we go deeper in fellowship with other believers, we’ll be more compelled to do the work of Christ because we have the encouragement from the rest of the body building us up.
Be a City Set on a Hill!
Sister, I’d be remiss if I didn’t share what Good News T-Shirts is doing for YOU, as a A Woman Created On Purpose reader. Because of their commitment to help us put forth the Word of God everywhere we go, they have created a CUSTOM “A Woman Created on Purpose” Tote Bag! This bag shares Ephesians 2:10– one of my favorite verses in the Bible, and the verse behind the name of this blog. You and I were created on purpose, and we can be reminded of that daily (and remind others) as we carry this tote.
While we’re talking about it, let me just tell you about the quality of this tote, sister! When I got my tote out of the packaging, I immediately could feel the sturdiness of the heavy canvas; the size is perfect for not only carrying my thick study Bible, but also my notebook, pens, phone, and small clutch purse (all my church-going essentials!), with no fear of the bottom falling out or the handles being ripped. I’ve been looking for a larger (but not awkwardly large), quality tote bag like this for years! It’s 100% cotton and can even be washed, as needed.
Needless to say, I’m loving my bag, and I believe you will too!! That’s why, in partnership with Good News T-Shirts, all readers can snag this one-of-a-kind, custom bag for 10% off using the code AWCOP10.
Use the promo code AWCOP10 here: GET 10% OFF MY CUSTOM TOTE BAG!
Click the link above and grab your custom bag, girl! Please join me in supporting this family-owned company that has stepped up to be a city set on a hill, and is not afraid to be a light of the world.
May we all shine brightly in His name and for His glory!
Cultivating Christian Community
No one was meant to live alone on an island. We all need a community– not just a group of people to belong to, but the sense that we belong. In a community…
No one was meant to live alone on an island. We all need a community– not just a group of people to belong to, but the sense that we belong. In a community, we have commonalities, similar thought processes, and interests. Or quite honestly, we have many differences, but the bond of love that is created still enables us to function as a whole and enjoy each other’s company.
The people who get you. Those who understand your point of view, even if they don’t agree with you 100% of the time. Those who are aware of your quirks and love you anyway. Those who hold your hand, either when you’re crying, or to pull you along to go grab some coffee.
The ones you can tell your deepest fears, heartaches, joys, and dreams. They rejoice in the Lord with you and hold you accountable when you falter.
Can you picture a few faces in your head? I bet you can.
What is christian Community?
The community we are talking about today isn’t the hub or town where you live. I’m referring to that sense of community for which our souls long: Christian community.
The definition of community is a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.
As believers– no matter our backgrounds, ethnicities, or favorite movie genres– we can come alongside one another and seamlessly bond together. No matter how great our differences, we have one commonality that is greater than the sum of them:
The Holy Spirit.
“Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, being diligent to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you also were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all. ”
The Spirit lives within us. And sister, He yields a unity between us like no other. This unity is the feeling you get when you meet a random stranger who you learn is a believer, and within several minutes of chatting, you feel like you’ve known her for years.
The Spirit provides the atmosphere for a Christian community to flourish because God is over all and through all and in all.
How to Build christian Community
Once we focus on the fact that the Spirit is already working in us, through us, and creating that perfect unity, understanding how to build a Christian community seems a little less daunting.
Here’s what I mean.
Let me encourage you with a few things I’ve seen in my own life that have been beneficial in building a community:
Live a godly lifestyle.
It starts with seeking the Lord and pursuing righteousness. You make time for God, grow in your walk, and live out the Word. You live for the glory of God alone.
Fellowship regularly.
Don’t hide, sister! You can’t build Christian community if no one ever sees you. You may feel more comfortable being alone, but again, the Lord desires that you fellowship with others, build each other up (Romans 14:9), and bless one another (Acts 4:32). Go to church. Serve. Attend Bible study and special events. Go to that girl’s night out. Get to know each other!
Create godly friendships.
A godly friendship begins when you first seek the Lord and live a godly lifestyle. Then, you link up with others who do the same. When Christ is at the center of a relationship, amazing things happen. He gives you a heart that is loyal to one another and seeks to bring Him glory in your association.
Be the person who connects people.
Once you get to know others, be the person who is mindful of ways you can connect friend to friend. Do you have two friends with kids who are similar ages? Friends who are both in the thick of potty training toddlers? Or, maybe they’re both avid runners? Introduce them. Be the person who aids in the igniting of the spark of new friendships.
Just relax.
All of the above can sound like a little much, right (especially if you tend to be introverted!)? Starting and growing new relationships can be a lot of work; well worth it, but it takes time, effort, and patience.
But God. That other person is His creation just like you are. He desires for her to walk worthy of her calling, use her spiritual gifts for His glory, and to fellowship with other believers.
These are the things He desires for you too. So if this is true, then understand that He will orchestrate the many facets of partaking in Christian community and guide you in every step. With the Lord as your guide, you won’t have to strive to make things happen on your own.
unity in christian Community
So, we’ve talked about how to build Christian community, or in other words, how to establish it. But, once you have an established community, how do you create a sense of community in the group? What components make for that rich fellowship that manifests itself within the group?
Let’s look to Philippians 2.
“So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord, and of one mind.”
These verses speak of unity. If Christ is at the center of your group, then, and only then, can there be a bond of unity through Him.
The Apostle Paul says that when we operate as a community in Christ, we have the ability to be of the same mind, acting in Christ’s love, and unified under the same banner.
Why? Because we are unified through Christ– not our likes, dislikes, and commonalities. Through Christ.
In Him, we have encouragement, comfort in His love, fellowship in the Spirit, and the ability to show affection and mercy. The Spirit works through us and in our midst to bring about that deep sense of relational community between us.
And it goes on,
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
Therefore, as we fellowship in the Spirit and He directs the bonds we are creating, He helps us see each other through His eyes. But more importantly, He allows us to see ourselves through His eyes. And in doing so, we are led to look out for the welfare of others.
In creating a God-honoring community, we are not selfish.
We don’t seek friendships only for personal gain.
We remain humble.
We look into and out for the interests of others.
Sister, the process of moving from how to build Christian community, to establishing and creating a sense of community is one of first seeking the Lord so you can learn to be a godly friend. From there, as you allow the Spirit to work in you and within your community, He gives you the heart attitude necessary to create a culture of humility and selflessness, operating in one mind to glorify Him.
Are you growing or dying?
Creating Christian community is a process, friend. First, you build it (as led by the Lord); then, you establish a sense of community within the group. Thankfully we have the Lord to help us along the way!
But, don’t tune out yet. We have one more piece of the puzzle.
There is a saying that speaks to the idea that nothing ever “stays the same” (except the Lord, of course! He never changes). Everything is either growing or dying.
Meaning, that our default mode isn’t one where we remain constant, smooth sailing on cruise control. Despite what many think, we can’t become grounded in our faith, and then just let it go, expecting it to maintain itself.
No— we are either growing in the Lord or our faith flame is flickering out.
There needs to be a consistent effort on our part to seek the Lord and be diligent to grow in Him. He’s always there, but we decide to come to Him.
Stagnation equals death— in our relationships, our spiritual growth, and within our community.
So, creating Christian community isn’t enough. From there, we must make efforts to cultivate it.
Walking out God’s Word is one of the most surefire ways to let your light shine, encourage others, and serve those in your midst. All of these things go hand in hand with creating community. Study Romans 12 and meditate on the ways God’s Word instructs us to live in a way that brings God glory. Fill out the form below to download your free guide!
Cultivating Your christian Community
The definition of cultivate is to foster the growth of something. One of the most beautiful models we have for this is seen within the first church:
“And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. ”
There is something that sounds so delightful about that, isn’t there? I truly believe that this is such a good model in which our churches can still operate today.
But sister, not just our churches— our small groups, our pockets of ministry, and the community we’re building among friends.
Being devoted to studying the Word.
Being devoted to fellowship and prayer with one another.
Being together as believers.
Having all things in common— the unity that only Christ provides.
Committing to being present with others, in church and through the hospitality we show within our homes.
Having a grateful attitude— counting it a blessing to receive, as well as to give generously to our sisters.
Because the fact of the matter is, we ARE the Church. Therefore, this isn’t only a good model for our churches. It’s also a good model for us as individuals; an example we can follow as we’re cultivating community with our friendships.
Sister, this is how we cultivate Christian community: Being mindful of the Lord’s will for our community, we allow Him to light the flame, and then, with His direction, we fan it these ways.
Not only do these components draw us closer to the Lord and each other, but they also yield blessings:
Unification. Needs are filled. We have favor with people. Our community grows as the Lord directs it to grow.
When we create community and step aside and let the Lord cultivate it and foster its growth, it will flourish beyond what we can imagine.
What is christian community without the Lord?
Nothing. No matter what you do, how many steps you take, or all of the effort you make in building friendships, you’ll never know how to build community if you don’t put Christ at the center. All of your efforts will be in vain.
But here’s what I know, sister. You are loved and cherished by God. He wants your life to bring Him glory as you walk out His purposes for you. He wants you to play your part in strengthening other believers because you are valuable and He’s given you spiritual gifts to use.
You were created on purpose. There is no one like you. This means that no one can have another friend exactly like you. If you stay in the dark, hide, and dodge building friendships and community, there will be sisters missing out on something influential, special, and unique in their lives:
The relationship they can have with you.
Sister, allow the Lord to use you as He sees fit in the lives of others. Trust Him as He guides and directs your steps in building Christian community for His glory.
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Waiting Well: A Lesson in Patience
Waiting is seldom easy. In fact, it can be downright difficult. But, it’s always possible. I know it doesn’t feel that way at the moment, but let’s take our feelings…
I have a feeling you’ll be able to relate to some of this, sister…
When we were kids, we couldn’t wait to be teenagers. As teenagers, we couldn’t wait to drive, and then one day become adults. Maybe if you’re currently single, you desire to be married. Or perhaps you’re waiting to have kids. One day, you’ll be waiting for those kids to have kids so you can become a grandparent!
Or, more solemnly, perhaps it’s your prodigal child who’s turned his heart from the Lord, that you’re prayerfully waiting to return. Possibly, you’re waiting for the test results to come back so the doctor can determine an official diagnosis. Or, you’re waiting for a breakthrough in the difficulties enveloping your marriage.
Waiting is seldom easy. In fact, it can be downright difficult. But, it’s always possible– it truly is. I know it doesn’t feel that way at the moment, but let’s take our feelings off of the table for the time being, shall we? As women, we often focus too much on how we feel in a particular situation, and allow those emotions to determine how we navigate the waters. This is true for so many areas of our lives, but particularly true when we’re waiting; when we’re doing our best to be patient.
As a Christian, patience is a key character trait in our faith. Our goal should be to patiently endure as Christ did. We are called to be patient with others, patient with the Lord as we wait on Him, and to let patience have its perfect work within us (James 1:4). We have the Holy Spirit in us, guiding and directing our steps– but we must be still and listen. We can have patience as we allow Him to work in us in the hard times– the times of waiting for days, weeks, or even years. We can choose to fret or to wait patiently for the God who is sovereign over our lives (Psalm 37:7).
What is patience?
Cambridge Dictionary defines patience as “the ability to wait, or to continue doing something despite difficulties, or to suffer without complaining or becoming annoyed.”
Often, in various translations of the Bible, patience is called “longsuffering”. It’s the idea of being able to suffer long; however, not just for a long time, but to also suffer well. Patience is the opposite of quick anger and loss of control. There is a strength that we exude when we operate in patience, and on the contrary, a weakness when we react impatiently.
If you’ve been following our Godly Woman Wardrobe series, you know that patience (or longsuffering) is the 5th character trait we are to put on according to Colossians 3:12-14.
“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. ”
We can be patient and endure because of the hope we have in Christ (1 Thessalonians 1:3). Patience is a flex of our endurance muscle, giving us the ability to wait on the Lord’s timing, trust in the Lord’s goodness, and believe the outcome of our trials will be for our good and His glory. Endurance takes faith—not passivity— to work. In faith, we can be still and allow God to be God in our lives.
And of course, sister, what is patience if not one of the beautiful pieces of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Through the sanctification process, as the Spirit is at work in our lives changing us to be more and more like Christ, we ever increasingly live and breathe the character of God. In obedience to the Holy Spirit and His promptings, we can then exhibit patience, even in the toughest moments and circumstances.
How to be patient
In terms of discovering how to be patient, keep in mind that, like any other aspect of our faith, patience isn’t a one-size-fits-all character trait. God will provide different situations in the lives of each of us to help us grow in patience. What circumstances that cause me to learn how to have more patience may look drastically different than the situations that cause you to flex your endurance. Let us not compare; instead, let us be mindful of the things of God: His personalized, customized working of sanctification in us, and walk worthy of the particular calling He has set before us.
As we look at these five, general ways to slow down, take a step back, and be mindful of our growth in patience, we can do so knowing that the Lord will give each of us the strength and endurance due to us so that we can glorify Him in the process.
Please note: There are so many ways to learn how to be patient. You could likely come up with your own list of five! I encourage you to comb through the Scriptures and discover all of the Bible verses about patience. To get you started, here are a few things the Lord has laid on my heart.
#1: Wait on the Lord.
Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord! -Psalm 27:14 NKJV
Not long after becoming a stay-at-home mom, I felt the Lord telling us it was time to have a 3rd child. After getting pregnant fairly quickly, I had a miscarriage. If you’ve ever experienced a miscarriage, or know someone who has, you know how difficult it is. For me, the next part of the equation was very trying as well– waiting to get pregnant again. This had never been something I struggled with before (and I know many who have, so believe me, I do not take this for granted and am very thankful), so it became a very confusing time for me. I began wondering if my body was still working correctly and why it would take so long when I knew it was the Lord who had placed the desire on my heart to have another child. Why was He withholding?
I had so many questions throughout the year that it took me to conceive again, and I truly had to dig deep to walk out the words of this verse. To be of good courage; to wait; to allow Him to strengthen my heart– these were all things I could not do on my own. When my fleshly thoughts wanted to take over, I had to remember that His words do not return void and He is the Ultimate Promisekeeper. Recalling the truth of His character helped me to endure in hope during that time. And, while I waited, He reminded me that He is my portion, and all I need (Lamentations 3:24).
#2: Be patient in affliction.
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. — Romans 12:12 ESV
Did you know you have something in common with Moses, Abraham, Job, Paul (and many others in the Bible)? It’s easily summed up in one word: TRIALS! Trials and storms will come in this life; there is no question about it (John 16:33). In my opinion, knowing this truth reminds me that there is no use trying to avoid tough times and tribulations– they’ll find us anyway!
God, being the gracious, loving, and sovereign Father He is, gives us the strength we need to be patient and stand firm, even in affliction. Amid our tribulations, we can fix our eyes on the Lord, trusting Him to take care of all we need as He leads us through. Patience in affliction comes via trust in Him, prayer, and steadfastness to keep His Word.
#3: Be patient in relationships.
Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. — 1 Thessalonians 5:14 NKJV
Whether our spouse, kids, co-workers, or brothers and sisters in Christ, we are called to be patient with all. And, if you weren’t sure, all means all. :) That includes those who are unruly– a little stubborn in their opinions or perhaps even argumentative. We’re told we should, as the Thessalonians we also instructed, warn or admonish them firmly and gently– in a way that still is loving. We sprinkle our words with grace and truth, and honor Christ in the way we respond, react, and instruct.
What about comforting the fainthearted– those who, as it means in the original Greek, are “little spirited” or “feebleminded.” We can easily lose our patience with friends or family who don’t get it; or those fellow Christians who may have weaker confidence in the things of the Lord. Yet this is where we’re called to walk slowly; take a seat, and encourage. Drop back to their pace and run alongside them, helping them grow and come to understand the things you hope in on a deeper level.
RELATED: How to Encourage One Another Like Barnabas
And then, as the verse above also states, we’re to uphold the weak. Whether physically, mentally, or perhaps weaker and less firm in their faith– as the Lord upholds us, we’re in turn to do the same for others. There’s no good reason to expect too much from them– give them grace and time to seek the Lord for themselves as well. We can show Christ’s love as we care for, hold fast to, or support those who are more feeble.
Being “patient with all” writes the story not only of how we treat those who need our support, but also of how we respond to others when we’re the ones who are not encouraged, upheld, and comforted, but instead, slandered or insulted. Patience can be tasted on our tongue as we give a soft answer instead of wrath (Proverbs 15:1); felt in our mind as we think before we speak (Proverbs 15:28); or perhaps palpable in our being as we’re slow to anger (Proverbs 14:29).
25 Pro Tips for Patience in Relationships
How to be patient…when you’re tired, you don’t feel like it, or when it’s hard. These are all things we face as we navigate our relationships with others. You’re not alone, sister and the Bible offers us so much wisdom on this topic! Here’s a FREE guide with 25 simple, yet in-depth tips based on Romans 12. Fill out the form below.
#4: Show patience in serving.
And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith. -Galatians 6:9-10 NKJV
Things may not always shape up in the way we expect them to, especially when it comes to serving others, but we can trust the Lord that if we are surely operating inside of His will, our serving will not be in vain. Therefore, no matter what it looks like, we focus on the “doing good” and not the “weary”. This proper focus allows our gaze to be fixed on the truth that there is always a season coming, whereas what the Lord purposes for us will be reaped.
It can be hard. It can be tiring. It can stretch our patience. But, our serving others, especially those who are of the household of faith, is never in vain, sister. The Lord desires to use us to do particular works that He ordained for us before the foundation of the world, and our job is to simply, trust, obey, and walk patiently in them. Our strength comes from the Lord, so when those thoughts of weariness come, as long as we’re doing what He’s called us to do, we can wait well for our due season, honoring Him along the way as we take the opportunities He’s given us to do good to all. (Don’t forget, all means all!).
#5: Slow down and learn patience from the Best.
The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. — Psalm 103:8 NASB
The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not willing for any to perish, but for all to come to repentance. — 2 Peter 3:9 NASB
The beautiful thing about patience (and all other godly characteristics) is that we don’t have to pull it out of thin air and fabricate it ourselves. Patience, just like the rest of the Godly Woman Wardrobe, comes from the Lord! God is love, and love is patient (1 Corinthians 13:4). In His greatest act of love He sent His Son to die on the cross for our sins so that through Jesus, we could be reconciled back to God. And in His great patience, He desires all to come to repentance, not wanting anyone to perish. As we wade the waters of relationships, trials, and service, we need to look no further than our Great Example.
We can wait faithfully for His timing because He is always faithful.
We can be still and patiently listen for Him because His still small voice is always there when we seek Him.
We can trust in His promises because He is not slack to keep them.
We can wait patiently for the Lord because His sovereign timing is always precise.
What is patience, if the Lord isn’t in it?
Sister, let me now encourage, uphold, and comfort you! Let us no longer question or wonder ‘how to be patient’. We keep our eyes focused on the Lord, remembering that patience isn’t just a “thing” to be possessed. In other words, we’re not to just have patience. None of the fruit of the Spirit and any other godly characteristic is something to simply have or hold onto. We must walk it out; use it. We show patience in our behaviors, our actions, our words, and responses, as the Lord does in our lives. What He does in us and through us, and more importantly, what we have in Him is enough.
“The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “Therefore I have hope in Him.” The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the person who seeks Him. -Lamentations 3:24-25 NASB
What about you? Do you struggle with patience or does having patience come easily to you? Comment below and let me know!
Missed the intro to the Godly Woman Wardrobe? Find out what Christian women should wear, here.
Pursuing Righteousness: 11 Biblical Tips
I’m a sucker for Latin. I haven’t studied it a lot and I know it’s a dead language and all, but there is something about the sound of Latin words and phrases that sound so beautiful to me…
I’m a sucker for Latin. I haven’t studied it a lot and I know it’s a dead language and all, but there is something about the sound of Latin words and phrases that sound so beautiful to me.
A few years ago I designed a canvas print with the words, Coram Deo on it. It means, “in the presence of God,” and it makes me think of Psalm 139:7, where David says there’s not a place he can go where he could flee from the Lord’s presence.
So true, isn’t it?
Soli Deo Gloria
Another Latin phrase I love is Soli Deo Gloria. When I think of this phrase, it begs the question, ‘What does it mean to live righteously?’
Likely, you’ve heard this Latin phrase before. Composers like Johann Sebastian Bach would write it at the bottom of their music. These beautiful words mean, “to the glory of God alone.”
The pastor at the first church my husband and I attended years ago gave us a book called the Westminster Shorter Catechism. One truth it states is:
“Man’s chief end is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.”
All of life is to be lived for the glory of God.
To live a life that gives glory to God alone, we must study the Word and hide it in our hearts. We need to be diligent to abide in the Lord, pursue Him, and pursue His righteousness. When we abide in Him, we’ll yearn to spend time with Him, sit at His feet, and learn from Him. Understanding how to pursue righteousness starts here.
This is where pursuing righteousness begins.
This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase, I receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is at no extra cost to you, and helps me to further serve you in your walk with the Lord!
What is Righteousness?
We are made righteous in the eyes of God by the blood of Jesus. Through His death and resurrection, and our acceptance of that free gift, our sins are forgiven and God sees us as righteous. This is called justification.
Here’s another big word: sanctification. Sanctification means “set apart”. Those in Christ are set apart for God to live holy lives unto Him. But, sanctification is also a process— one of the continual work of the Holy Spirit in our lives to help us grow in the Lord and become more like Christ every day.
“And I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. ”
Our behavior and conduct should show the world that we are set apart for God, living for Him— not living for the world. The Lord is working in our hearts and in our lives to draw us closer to Him and mold our character to be more like His.
Bible Verses About Righteousness
The word righteousness appears almost 300 times in the NASB version of the Bible, and this doesn’t even include the number of times we simply see the word, righteous. Needless to say, the Lord has a lot to tell us about this topic. I encourage you to study the many “righteousness “ verses in their context to grow in your understanding of what this truly means for us as believers.
Here are a few Bible verses about righteousness that stick out to me. Grab a good set of Bible pens and highlighters, and mark these for your own, personal study!
Proverbs 21:21: “One who pursues righteousness and loyalty finds life, righteousness, and honor.”
1 Timothy 6:11: “But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness.”
Proverbs 21:3: “To do righteousness and justice is preferred by the Lord more than sacrifice.”
Matthew 6:33: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided to you.”
As you can see, these Bible verses about righteousness call us to pursue righteousness, do righteousness, and seek righteousness. But really, how do we do that? Let’s dive into it.
Instructions for Living Righteously
Pause for a minute with me, and take a look at the start of Psalm 1:
“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on His law he meditates day and night.”
As we pay attention to the progression in these verses, we see: walk, stand, and sit. We can be mindful of the company we keep, but we also need to be mindful of how long we are in the presence of things not honorable to the Lord.
Once we start walking in bad counsel, eventually we get more comfortable and cease movement— which leads to standing amongst it all. And, once we’re comfortable enough to stand and hang out in wicked ways, we sit, relax, and take it all in— and before you know it, we’re also exhibiting those behaviors.
Sister, we can truly live Soli Deo Gloria only if we rely on the Holy Spirit and follow His guidance in our lives. And, that takes some good decision-making on our part as well.
PURSUE RIGHTEOUSNESS BY PURSUING THE LORD
To get to know the Lord better and what His righteousness truly looks like, we need to spend time in the Word, sis! Dive deeper in your quiet time with God using these FREE Bible study printables. Fill out the form below.
How to Pursue Righteousness: 11 Biblical Tips
Although you are ultimately made righteous in God’s eyes due to the acceptance of Christ as your Savior, you still live in freedom and can choose whether or not you are actively pursuing a lifestyle that is comparable to that of righteous living.
So, how can you conduct your life in a way that gives glory to God?
Grab your Bible and take a look at Psalm 15. You may want to jot this wisdom down in your favorite journal. This Psalm provides solid, practical answers, in the form of dos and don’ts, to the question:
How do you pursue righteousness?
#1: YOU WALK WITH INTEGRITY. Pursuing righteousness leads to a lifestyle that exhibits integrity. You are committed to God’s ways, and you serve the Lord, not yourself.
#2: YOU WORK RIGHTEOUSNESS. Your deeds exhibit justice. You promote good, not evil.
Examine your life: Ask yourself, “What results flow from my actions?”
#3: YOU SPEAK THE TRUTH IN YOUR HEART. Your speech exhibits reliability, honesty, and the truth of God’s Word. When you’re a woman who is pursuing righteousness, your heart is settled and steadfast on the things of the Lord. Therefore, beginning in your heart, what flows forth should be what is pleasing to Him, for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart (Luke 6:46). Evil heart intents bring forth evil; but not so with those whose hearts are focused with the Lord and His treasures. You don’t lie, deceive or manipulate, even when it seems necessary or convenient.
RELATED: Is it Ever Ok For a Christian to Lie?
#4: YOU DO NOT SLANDER WITH YOUR TONGUE. Your words matter. It’s always best to uplift and encourage others, speaking things that edify, not tear down. Again, check your heart (Luke 6:44-46)!
#5: YOU DO NO EVIL TO YOUR NEIGHBOR. I think there’s a good reason why Jesus said that loving your neighbor is the second greatest commandment (Matthew 22:39). It’s not good enough to just not do evil towards someone— you must also go the extra mile to be selfless and others-seeking, as you treat those around you with dignity and respect.
#6: YOU DON’T TAKE UP A REPROACH AGAINST YOUR FRIEND. This specifically touches on gossip, which is equally wrong whether it’s toward an enemy or a friend. Gossip can be any discussion about someone who isn’t physically present in the conversation, including sharing things about them without their permission. The truth can easily be manipulated or misconstrued, even if it’s by accident.
Our words and actions should always exemplify grace. Oftentimes gossip can happen because there is a desire to put someone down, as opposed to offering grace over their shortcomings. Just as we’d like to receive grace for our shortcomings, we should offer grace to all we come into contact with— including those who may be presently gossiping! Let’s keep the focus on Christ and the fact that He shed His blood, which covers all of our sins.
Examine your life: When a conversation turns to gossip do you add a negative comment, or do you offer support and grace?
#7: YOU DESPISE EVIL. You see things for what they are—evil is evil. You hate the things God hates. You don’t allow yourself to walk with others in their wicked ways.
#8: YOU HONOR THOSE WHO FEAR THE LORD. You respect fellow believers. You give them grace and encouragement. You can encourage them with your actions and words in person, over the phone, or surprise them by sending a sweet card in the mail!
#9: YOU KEEP YOUR WORD AND DO NOT CHANGE. You hold yourself accountable, no matter how high the cost.
Examine your life: Do others see you as reliable and trustworthy? Or do people doubt your follow-through? Do you hold yourself accountable for how you live for the Lord?
RELATED: Living for the Lord on Purpose
#10: YOU’RE GENEROUS WITHOUT INTEREST. When you live righteously you can give freely, because you know the Lord is your provider. You can give and expect nothing in return.
#11: YOU DON’T TAKE BRIBES AGAINST THE INNOCENT. This means that you cannot be bought. Could someone pay you to compromise your integrity?
To sum it up, David concludes the Psalm with these final words in verse 15: “He who does these things shall never be shaken.” We are solid in our ways when we rely on the Lord in our daily actions and interactions.
Let’s Pursue Righteousness
In terms of integrity and character, you could say the instructions in Psalm 15 are things the Lord expects of us as believers. These aren’t petty do’s and don’ts; they describe godliness in terms of a maturing character. It can perhaps feel daunting to view “all the things you have to do”; however, there’s no need to look at Scripture in this way. We study His Word. We sit at His feet. He desires intimacy with us and we pursue that intimacy. And, as we do, He changes us to become more and more like Him, being transformed into the same image from glory to glory (2 Corinthians 3:18). Intimacy with the Lord yields righteousness.
Sister, let’s put our thoughts and actions in their proper place. Join me in using this Psalm (and all of Scripture), not as something to hang over our heads to condemn us when we don’t live up to it; but instead, as a means by which we can simply measure our character. With the Lord’s help and guidance, and our desire to remain faithful to His Word, we can pursue righteousness.
We can live Soli Deo Gloria.
Blessed Are the Meek...Are You?
What is meekness? And why is it that blessed are the meek? Meekness is a lot of things, but one thing it’s not is…
I don’t really recall ever hearing my dad yell at me or my three siblings while growing up. Sure, he was stern and authoritative when he needed to discipline us, but I don’t remember him ever flying off the handle. I’ve always had a deep respect for my dad, a respect that led me to never want to disappoint him— not out of fear, but because he doesn’t deserve to be disappointed. He displayed and communicated right from wrong to us as children, constantly went out of his way to do what needed to be done for all of us (and my mom), and didn’t retaliate, fight back, or try to get even if someone ever had a problem with him.
And he’s still this way today. Soft-spoken, kind, and I honestly can’t think of one person in this world who doesn’t like him.
Do you know anyone like that? Someone who you can describe in one, powerful word: meek.
“Meekness is weakness.” You may have heard that saying before. Or, perhaps no one has said those exact words to you, but you've got the vibe that that's the general consensus of our culture.
In today’s world, a meek and gentle spirit is often mistaken for weakness. A lack of strength. Powerless. Even, being a push-over. We're told to be strong, show everyone how much of an independent woman we are, and how we “don't need anybody.” Use our words, actions, and body language to exert power and force; take control, they say.
But is this the most effective behavior? I mean, sure, it gets the job done. People respond to fear, so if they're afraid of the big, strong woman you are— of course, you can make them do almost anything you want.
But, as a woman set apart for the Lord is this the life He calls you to?
This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase, I receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is at no extra cost to you, and helps me to further serve you in your walk with the Lord!
WHAT IS MEEKNESS?
Meekness is the willingness to suffer injury or insult rather than be the one to inflict those insults on others. It produces a mildness in our demeanor and humility in our spirit. Meekness does not grasp for ways to overpower others or seek to be overbearing. There is a gentle, somewhat submissive quality to a person who is meek.
If you’ve been following our Godly Woman Wardrobe series, you know that meekness is the 4th character trait we are to put on according to Colossians 3:12-14.
“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. ”
When we are meek, even if our natural personality tends to be on the stronger side, we choose to yield that powerfulness and instead speak and behave with gentleness for the benefit of others.
Meekness is strength under control.
It’s like what Paul urged the church of Ephesus— to display a lowliness and gentleness; to have patience and bear with one another in love. This is meekness and a worthy way of walking out our faith (Ephesians 4:1-2).
MEEKNESS IN THE BIBLE
Of course, like any good thing in life, we need to look no further than Jesus for our example of meekness. The Son of God, who left His place in heaven in order to come down and dwell among us, had every right to use His almighty power as He interacted with people. He was questioned, religious leaders tried to deceive Him, and He was provoked. Yet, He always responded with a meekness, never putting the full weight of His power at the forefront.
He showed His strength in teaching the truth, not in starting arguments. He was bold enough to confront wrong behavior in people, yet gentle enough not to strike them down. Those in His presence felt the weight of His authority (Mark 1:21-22), but He didn’t lord it over them. He came to earth for the people— for us— not to put His deity on display.
In 2 Corinthians 10:1, Paul, as he prepares to share some hard things with the readers of his epistle, urges the Corinthians “by the meekness and gentleness of Christ.” He desires to boldly share the tough, necessary things they need to hear in a gentle, strength-controlled manner— just as Jesus did.
Even Paul’s personality seemed to reflect a meekness, as, in the same verse, he goes on to say that he was meek when physically in their presence, but bold in his writings to them. Perhaps they thought he was hypocritical or two-faced. Or perhaps— they just didn’t quite understand what true meekness looked like.
Going back even further in time, we meet Moses, whom Numbers 12:3 says was very meek (or humble; or lowly), more so than anyone on the earth. The leader of the exodus learned how to hone that strong passion (that once led him to kill an Egyptian) into a quiet strength that would humbly and obediently walk in step with his God.
Meekness in our lives
So, what about us? What is meekness for us as Christian women, and how does it translate into our own lives? We often think that biblical principles are supposed to look differently for us in today’s world; in our current culture. But sister, God never changes and neither does His Word. So the direction and instruction we read in the Bible apply to us in the same way it applied to those living in those times. With a careful study of the Word, you can find many ways the Lord instructs us in how to live with an attitude of meekness. What is meekness? Dare I say, it conveys strength. Here are just a few thoughts:
#1: Meekness means submitting to God.
We humbly bow to His Word and His will, recognizing that there is no power that we could possess on our own that would fruitfully bring forth the will of God.
#2: Meekness means we let go of our rights.
We realize that our “logical” privileges and rights aren’t greater than our calling as a child of God. Our earthly prestige may bring us fame and attention in this life, but He has so much more for us. We live in a way that knows this to be true, not in a manner that ensures we’re placed on a pedestal above those “lower” than us.
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”
#3: In meekness, we see strength in patience.
We know that even though we’re giving up our privileges and rights now, in our meekness and faithfulness to the Lord, we will inherit the earth. He’s got us. He cares for us. Our meek and mild attitude is not overlooked by Him. His reward is great for those who wait on Him, whether for His enactment of vengeance or simply for direction.
#4: In meekness, we share the truth with love and grace.
We should always be ready to communicate the source of our hope and shed light on our faith, but we do so with meekness— a gentle strength that exudes the power behind the gospel, but in a loving way that allows the hearer to feel the Holy Spirit’s conviction, not our condemnation (1 Peter 3:15).
STUDY EXAMPLES OF MEEKNESS IN THE BIBLE
God has given us all that’s needed to live a godly life– the answers are found in His Word! Let’s be women who live with meekness, humbly submitting to His blueprint for our lives. Use this FREE Bible study printables packet to aid you during your quiet time. Fill out the form below.
Blessed are the Meek, Sister
Honoring the Lord is not weak. It doesn’t mean we are less than. It takes more strength to refrain from unleashing the power you have than to actually unleash it. Like a well-trained horse, we know when to humbly submit and how to respond at the moment. Was this not, in fact, the example of our Lord?
There is no need to strive or to pursue a life of power so that our power can cause all things to work together for good for ourselves. No— that is the Lord’s job. Instead, as we allow ourselves to be enveloped with His gentleness, we can rest in His peace, knowing that He will make a way, in His own way. We simply need to trust and be obedient.
Meekness brings forth blessings— not only for you but for those who witness the love of Christ through your gentleness and respect.
Blessed are the meek.
Be blessed, sister!
Bible verses about meekness
Use your FREE Bible Study Printables (see download form above!) and find your own list of Bible verses about meekness! Here are just a handful to get you started. I encourage your to write them down in a favorite journal (here’s my favorite!) so you can be reminded when you need it.
Psalm 37:11 NKJV
But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.
James 1:21 NKJV
Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.
James 3:13 NKJV
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.
1 Peter 3:15 NKJV
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.
Ephesians 4:1-2 NKJV
I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love;
2 Corinthians 10:1 NASB
Now I, Paul, myself urge you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ—I who am meek when face to face with you, but bold toward you when absent!
See also:
A Biblical Guide to Humility
What does it mean to humble yourself? It starts by adopting the same attitude– heart attitude– that Jesus had. Are we willing to choose…
“I’m the most humble person”…said no one ever. At least, no one who’s ever really thought about what they were saying, right?
Humility isn’t something you walk around telling everyone that you have. Most of the time, if that’s the case, that person typically doesn’t possess strong humility (if he has to tell everyone he’s a king, is he really…?) You get my drift?
Humility is a way of life– just like the other pieces of the Godly Woman Wardrobe, it’s who you are; how you live. But, as with the other pieces, it’s also a choice– a choice whether or not you will put on each article of clothing on a daily basis.
Sister, in an effort to humble yourself, just know that you can’t possess true humility outside of the Lord.
“Therefore, as [the] elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility…”
In Colossians 3:12, the word humility in Greek means “humbleness of mind or lowliness of mind”, and it’s the same word used in Ephesians 4:2, Philippians 2:3, and 1 Peter 5:5.
It is in this attitude of the heart that we came before the Lord, admitting that we were sinners, repenting, and asking Him to be our Savior. As new creations in Christ, the elect of God, holy and beloved, it is our duty to continue in this heart attitude of humility. As Jesus did during His time on earth, we are to walk out our faith in a way that gives glory to God; and, that is possible if we are clothed in humility.
This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase, I receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is at no extra cost to you, and helps me to further serve you in your walk with the Lord!
An Example of Humility in the Bible
Grab your Bible and read Philippians 2:1-9 right now. Will you do that? It’s such a powerful passage that not only lets us know how we are to act but also why we are to act this way. It’s worth the read to understand just what we’re talking about here.
There are many examples of humility in the Bible when it comes to Jesus, but for now, in light of this passage, let’s focus on His ultimate act of humility. Jesus laid aside all He had in the heavenly places for a time, to come down to earth, to dwell among men– living, suffering, and dying for us. Philippians 2:7 says He made Himself of no reputation. He took on flesh, became a servant, and lived a humble life– one that led Him, in humble submission and obedience, to the cross.
You taste His humility when you think about the fact that He was born in a manger and born to parents who weren’t wealthy, living lavishly in a palace. Even Moses was raised in a wealthier lifestyle than Jesus while growing up!
Yet, Jesus didn’t seek those things for Himself; He didn’t try to elevate Himself or His status. He wasn’t trying to pursue a rags to riches story in this life. Don’t get me wrong— there’s nothing wrong with wanting to get out of poverty and create a better, more stable lifestyle for your family. My point is that Jesus was obedient to the Father’s will for His life, and He was willing to be born, live, and die in whatever way would bring about the plans and purposes of God and give Him the glory.
Of course, one of the most “famous” examples of humility in the Bible is when Jesus washed the feet of His disciples (John 13). A lowly, dirty job usually done by someone’s servant, Jesus instead took this task upon Himself. He wasn’t too high and mighty; it wasn’t beneath Him.
Jesus– the Son of the Godhead, humbled Himself. He didn’t have to, yet in the love of God– His great, unending, unfathomable love– God sent Jesus to die for our sins. As Christians, we are to be like Christ. He is our example and by the power of the Holy Spirit, as we follow His promptings, we too can live a life of humility.
And for us, what does that look like? What does it mean to humble? It starts with adopting the same attitude– heart attitude– that Jesus had. Are we willing to choose to take on humility– not just in our actions, but in our being? This is the example of Christ. Once we do, then the verses prior to Philippians 2:7 are a little easier to walk out.
“Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.”
We’ll dissect these verses more in a minute, but for the time being, think about your day. Did the instruction of these verses ring true in your actions so far today? Were you selfishly completing tasks or unselfishly serving others? Did you look out more for others’ interests, or your own? (I’m asking myself the same questions right now, sister!)
RELATED: 3 Lessons on Humble Submissions
As we consider our heart attitude and ask the Lord to search our hearts and expose any wicked way within us, our pure intentions and motives come to light. It may not be pretty, but it is necessary because humility can’t fully manifest if we’re still holding onto ounces of pride.
Pride Goes Before a Fall
What is pride? Well, put simply, it’s not humility! Whereas we won’t spend a lot of time discussing pride in this article, it’s important to touch on it for a quick minute. We want to be sure that as we’re pursuing a life clothed in humility, we are aware of the ways pride can manifest in our lives.
“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. ”
If you’ve peeked around on my blog, you may have noticed that I’ve already written an article that answers the question, What is pride? Although the majority of that article was written specifically in regard to motherhood, pride, as you know, is something that can creep into every area of a Christian woman’s life.
It’s so easy to focus more on ourselves, our own agendas, and our wants. This can be fulfilling for a time, and we may even be satisfied with the outcome. Yet, things won’t go well for long if this is the normal way we conduct our lives. When we’re too focused on ourselves (whether we think we are so great or so little) we are not focused enough on the Lord. We believe we can do it all on our own, in our own strength. Or, we believe that we can’t do anything at all, so what’s the point?
Pride hinders us from fully trusting in the Lord and walking by faith.
In faith, we realize that His power is made perfect in our weakness, so it doesn’t matter if we aren’t good enough. And, faith shows us that no matter how skilled we are, we still need Him through the process to guide us, direct us, and keep our eyes focused on glorifying Him in the outcome.
RELATED: Dealing with the Idol of Self
Humble Yourself
The beautiful thing about humility is that it is easily done by way of submission. Some of you may be thinking, submission? Why is that beautiful? I know, sometimes we struggle with this word; especially as women living in today’s culture where we’re told to take charge, be in control, and be a queen. Unfortunately, this attitude of a culture-approved worldview is saved for the prideful and as Christian women, we shouldn’t want any part of that.
Submission is a beautiful thing because it puts us in a place where we know we are under the guidance, care, and leadership of a higher authority. And, if this authority is trustworthy and truthful, we have nothing to fear.
Sister, this is our Lord. Even as married women being that the Lord calls us to submit to our husbands, we do this as unto Christ. Godly submission always trails back to Him, as the Higher, Trustworthy, and Truthful Authority. When we see Him in this respect, and in that respect we respect those on earth He has placed in leadership over us, we can then willingly be clothed in humility. Our pride will relinquish and we won’t be bucking at the system because we know that it’s the Lord’s system and we trust Him. We understand that His hand is indeed mighty, and we can trust His mighty hand with any care we may have.
When we’re clothed with humility, others see a gentle radiance exude from our lives. We happily serve in the lowest of ways, as Jesus did when He washed His disciples' feet; we don’t care if we go unnoticed; we don’t expect to always get a ‘thank you’; and we think of others first, over self.
“If you are willing to be nothing God will make something of you. The way to the top of the ladder is to begin at the lowest round. In fact in the church of God, the way up is to go down; but he that is ambitious to be at the top will find himself before long at the bottom.”
With humility comes grace (1 Peter 5:5). Who doesn’t want more of God’s grace? Grace is amazing because it has nothing to do with us— it all stems from God and His character. It’s a blessing and promise from God for those who are humble.
And secondly, with humility comes exaltation (1 Peter 5:6). In due time— God’s timing— He exalts us, in whatever way or fashion He desires in His sovereignty. Yet, if we’re on a path determined to exalt ourselves, this is the path of pride, and there will be resistance. We must trust and believe that the Lord cares for us enough that all things will work out for our good and His glory.
FIND TRUE EXAMPLES OF HUMILITY IN THE WORD
Sister, we can make up our life as we go along, or we can follow the blueprint God has provided for us. Let’s be women who live purposefully for the Lord by way of being intentional in our study of Him! Use this FREE printable study packet to aid you during your quiet time before the Lord. Fill out the form below.
{Pair this study packet with the best Bible pens and highlighters}
How to Humble Yourself
Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can choose, daily, to clothe ourselves with humility. As with many things in the Christian life– it’s easier said than done. As I mentioned earlier, Philippians 2 gives us a little bit of insight into how we can practically walk out this calling in our lives. Write it in your personal journal and refer to it often. Let’s read it again:
“Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.”
#1: Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit.
First of all, sister, nothing means nothing. There is not one thing, ever, that we should do with selfish ambition or conceit (a highly favorable opinion of yourself). Yes, we can be ambitious for the Lord– striving to live a life pleasing to Him, to serve Him with all we have, and to be faithful to the calling He’s given us. An ambition that is focused toward God is ok. It’s the ambition that is selfish, however, that is not ok. When we’re concerned with our own promotion and advancement, thinking only of how things will work out for us–this is what the world means when they say, “Look out for #1.”
We don’t have to live this way– bowing down to what we believe is best for only us. The Lord has a better way and His way works together for good to those who are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28)– not just for some of us, all of us! At the same time! This is why God’s sovereignty is so important for us to keep in mind. His ways are higher than our ways and we don’t know the end from the beginning. The best we can and should do is to remove selfish ambition and conceit from our wardrobe and humble ourselves before Him, knowing that He will promote us in due time.
#2: In lowliness of mind, esteem others better than yourself.
Our job as Christian women is not to walk around thinking we are better than any one person (or everyone else). Relinquish high self-esteem and superiority at the foot of the cross. Again, this gentle, meek, lowliness of mind is the attitude Jesus possessed during His time on earth.
What does this look like for us?
It means we see each other as made in the image of God.
We don’t look down on someone who struggles financially or who doesn’t have shoes as nice as ours.
We see opportunities where our strengths can complement a sister’s weaknesses, and vice versa.
No one is below us, and honestly, we don’t put people on idol-like pedestals thinking there are so high above us either.
The Lord places each of us in positions according to His will, and that’s His business. As we esteem others as better, this means we see others as unique creations of our Heavenly Father with desires, needs, and struggles. We’re not so focused on ourselves that we miss it. And in our lowliness of mind, we are ready to graciously and humbly stoop down to serve them. When we all do this for one another, this creates greater love and unity in the body of Christ.
#3: Look out for the interest of others.
We should not miss the fact that this verse doesn’t say that we are to ONLY look out for the interest of others– it does say that we’re to look out for our own interests too. So we should still, of course, care about our lives, our families, and the calling the Lord has for us. Yet, is not to be our one and only concern. Again, with too much pride, selfish ambition, and conceit, we’re toeing the line of looking out for #1.
Instead, as we remove the negative pieces of our wardrobe, looking out for the interest of others comes naturally. When the Lord’s ways are above ours, we see others as made in the image of God. And, when we desire to serve them in their needs, by default we begin to possess more of an attitude that looks out for the interest of others. When I say “by default”, I don’t mean that it’ll happen 100% of the time on its own–no, it’s still our choice, sister! Yet, how much easier will it be, when we’re clothed in humility, to look out for others and want what’s best for them, just as the Lord does?
It takes a conscious effort and decision, a moment-by-moment reliance on the Holy Spirit. And, oh what beauty comes when we do so.
Bible Verses About Humility
There are so many stories in the Bible that focus on those who were humble and then exalted by God, and those who exalted themselves and therefore were humbled by God (just read the book of Daniel!). We have many examples to learn from, sister. But for now, I’ll leave you with a few Bible verses about humility:
Ephesians 4:2 NKJV: “…with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love.”
Philippians 2:3 NKJV: “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.”
1 Peter 5:5 NKJV: “Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”’
1 Peter 5:6-7 NKJV: “Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.”
Job 42:1-6 NASB: “Then Job answered the Lord and said, ‘“I know that You can do all things, and that no plan is impossible for You. ‘Who is this who conceals advice without knowledge?’ Therefore I have declared that which I did not understand, things too wonderful for me, which I do not know. ‘Please listen, and I will speak; I will ask You, and You instruct me.’ I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear; but now my eye sees You; therefore I retract, and I repent, sitting on dust and ashes.”’
James 4:10: “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.”
Deuteronomy 8:2 NKJV: “And you shall remember that the Lord your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not.”
2 Samuel 22:28 NKJV: “You will save the humble people; but Your eyes are on the haughty, that You may bring them down.”
2 Chronicles 7:14 NKJV: “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”
2 Chronicles 32:26 NKJV: “Then Hezekiah humbled himself for the pride of his heart, he and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the wrath of the Lord did not come upon them in the days of Hezekiah.”
Psalm 18:27 NKJV: “For You will save the humble people, but will bring down haughty looks.”
Proverbs 3:34 NKJV: “Surely He scorns the scornful, but gives grace to the humble.”
Do you have others that are your favorites? Comment below!
Is it Ever Ok For A Christian To Lie?
The Bible has a lot to say about lying. As a Christian, it’s important we heed its advice. From honesty stems integrity, and from there, our character. Read on to learn why this recipe is important, and practical tips to help displace dishonesty in our lives.
In our household, lying is a serious offense. Small lies, big lies, it doesn’t matter. We don’t fabricate tales. We don’t cheat while playing board games. We don’t tell only half of the story, while purposely leaving certain details out.
When we’re playing games with our kids, whether board games or active sports, if someone cheats to gain an advantage or win, that person is immediately disqualified (or the game piece is kicked off the board!). It’s easy to say, “It’s just a game”, or “Oh, he’s only 6 years old, he’ll grow out of it.” But, that’s not helpful. That’s dangerous. With three kids 8 years old and under, we know by now that habits are formed at an early age, and one of the easiest habits to take hold of your heart and your life is lying.
The more you lie, the easier it is to lie. Little by little, it becomes your default. When you’re not sure what to say. When you’re not sure how someone may take the news. When you’re not sure what to do. A flat-out lie, or perhaps, the truth sprinkled with a little lie, becomes your default.
As a Christian, is it ever ok to lie?
In today’s world, there is a lot of conflicting talk about truth, lies, and honesty. What is honesty? What’s a lie? What’s wrong with a white lie? Is a lie ok as long as it was told to protect someone, something, or so you don’t hurt someone’s feelings?
There’s plenty of narrative going on about the right and wrong answers to these questions.
But who are you listening to– the world, or the Word?
Whether or not you are honest plays a huge role in your integrity and your character, and your character and integrity are the hallmarks of your life. We’ll get to that later. But first, let’s take a look at what the Bible says about lying.
What Does the Bible Say About Lying?
The Bible says several very important things about lying. Let’s take a look.
GOD HATES LIES
For one thing, we know that Satan is the father of lies (John 8:44). I’m sure it’s no surprise to you that God hates lies.
“These six things the Lord hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him:
A proud look,
A lying tongue,
Hands that shed innocent blood,
A heart that devises wicked plans,
Feet that are swift in running to evil,
A false witness who speaks lies,
And one who sows discord among brethren. ”
I figure that if at least two of the seven things the Lord hates have to do with lying, it’s pretty safe to say you probably shouldn’t be doing it.
THE LORD IS TRUTH
Not only does the Lord hate lying, but more importantly, He is Truth. (John 14:6). Part of His character— who He is— is truth. He literally is Truth. As His followers, His children, we are to desire to live in a way that not only glorifies Him but also points others in His direction. The fruit you bear should demonstrate that He is in you and working in you. Therefore, if He is truth, and He is in you, then what comes out of you should also be truth. In other words, the apple shouldn’t fall far from the tree.
THE TRUTH WILL ALWAYS COME OUT
The truth will always be found out. You may deceive others for a time, but the Lord knows your heart and knows the truth. Jeremiah 28:15-17 talks about how Hananiah, who was a false prophet, made the Israelites believe a lie. The Lord didn’t allow this to manifest, but instead revealed the truth to Jeremiah, who confronted Hananiah and he was therefore condemned.
YOU SHOULD STAND FOR TRUTH
God calls you to stand for His truth and go against popular thought. Various times in the book of Ezekiel, God calls him to speak out against the various lies and claims others were speaking to the people. If popular thought goes against His Word, it’s up to His believers to go against popular thought.
THE TRUTH ABOUT LYING
Lying is a sin (Exodus 20:16). The more you lie, the less you trust others, including the Lord, because you’ve conditioned your mind to be in a constant state of falsehood. The truth becomes blurred and everything is suspect.
Will you listen to the world or the Word?
How To Stop Lying: 5 Biblical tips
So, if you have a habit of lying, what’s the solution? I think the answer is (generally) the same as it is for many things you may struggle with in this life.
Previously, I referenced the list of the seven things the Lord hates, as seen in Proverbs chapter 6. But, if you continue reading, immediately after the Lord tells you what He hates, He gives you a few instructions:
“My son, keep your father’s command,
And do not forsake the law of your mother.
Bind them continually upon your heart;
Tie them around your neck.
When you roam, they will lead you;
When you sleep, they will keep you;
And when you awake, they will speak with you.
For the commandment is a lamp,
And the law a light;
Reproofs of instruction are the way of life... ”
So, how can you stop lying if it’s become a habit? Based on this Proverb, here are 5 practical and prayerful tips:
#1: Know you can’t do it on your own.
You can’t possibly expect to overcome the sin of lying on your own. James tells us how powerful our tongue is, like a small rudder that can control a large ship. You can’t just wake up one day and say, “I’m going to stop lying.” Well, you can say that, but that’s not something you’ll be able to live out day by day, long term, in your own strength. It starts with acknowledging this truth.
#2: Let the Holy Spirit guide you.
You need the help of the Holy Spirit. Surrender to Him. Through Him, you have the power to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). Since we know our words begin as thoughts, this is an important part of the process we can’t forsake. Hand your thoughts over to Him so He can help you think on good things (Philippians 4:8). Allow Him to convict you of right and wrong, truth and error— and let His peace guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7).
#3: Hold fast to the Word.
The Lord urges you to keep His Word. Know it. Bind it continually on your heart and tie it around your neck. Memorize Scripture so it’s permanently impressed in your mind and on your heart,
SO THAT, it prompts every action you take;
SO THAT, when you roam-- that is, when you go about your life doing all the daily things-- it will lead you;
SO THAT, even when you sleep, you know you are safe, protected, and kept by the Lord;
SO THAT, when you are awake, making decisions, or going through a situation, the Word will be active and fresh in your mind-- speaking with you, and telling you what is right, true, and good.
#4: Ask the Lord to search your heart.
Not only do you need to hang tight to the Word and impress it upon your heart, but it’s also imperative that you purge any other impurities from your thoughts and heart. The trick is, however, that many times you don’t even realize they’re there. This is why, like David, it’s important to ask the Lord to search your heart and see if there is any wicked way within you (Psalm 139:23-24). Give the Word a clean slate on which to write.
#5: Ask the Lord for Help.
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, Lord, my rock and my Redeemer. (Psalm 19:14)
This is a biggie. Being in constant communication with the Lord throughout the day is the only way to tame your tongue. This goes back to point #1 (Know you can’t do it on your own). Before you speak— no– before you think a thought, ask the Lord to help you only think and say those things that would glorify Him.
God and His Word are always the solutions.
The Importance of Integrity in Your Life
I hear honesty and integrity hashed around together as if they’re one and the same. Although they’re similar and pair well together, I like to think that honesty is the main staple of integrity; meaning, without honesty, you can’t have integrity.
Merriam-Webster defines integrity as “firm adherence to a code of especially moral values; the quality of being honest and fair; the state of being complete, whole or undivided.”
If integrity is the state of being whole and undivided, then let’s think of it as not being divided between flesh and spirit in your decision-making. You cannot choose both. You cannot walk in the flesh and in the Spirit at the same time.
When you choose to have integrity in a moment, you are choosing undivided loyalty in serving the Lord, wholly walking in the Spirit in accordance with His Word.
Please note: Integrity isn’t something you choose once, and then you always have it. It is a day-by-day, moment-by-moment decision. It’s a choice you make in every action you take.
As with honesty, the world has a lot to tell you about integrity. Thankfully, so does the Word.
The Lord takes seriously your actions and integrity, or lack thereof. Job 2:3 talks about how the Lord saw that Job was incredibly blameless and upright. He saw his integrity and the Lord knew that even up against the worst darts from Satan, Job would not fold.
You are to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14-16).
If your light is to shine before men so they see your good works and glorify Him, you’d better be walking in integrity! A lack of integrity can automatically weaken your testimony.
If you read Daniel 1:3-21, you’ll see how Daniel and his three friends held fast to their integrity, refusing to take part in something commanded of them by an earthly king because it went against what was commanded of them by the King of kings. They could have easily gone with the crowd. Daniel was respectful in his plea to go against the king’s wishes; nevertheless, he was firm. He trusted that the Lord would bless them for remaining faithful. And the Lord did.
The cost of losing your integrity is always greater than whatever it costs to keep it.
What Is More Important: Character or Reputation?
So we’ve talked about honesty and integrity. Putting it all together, I’d say there is a link or progression that looks like this:
live according to the Word + honesty = develop integrity
When you choose to live according to the Word and be honest, you begin to develop integrity (an adherence to walking in the Spirit on a regular basis). Over time, integrity becomes a part of your character.
then… your integrity becomes part of your character.
Character is the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual. Your character is who you are, truly in the deepest depths of your soul. Your actions are a reflection or mirror of your character. Your character is who you truly are and encompasses your honesty and integrity before the Lord or lack thereof.
Your reputation is who other people think you are, and simply encompasses what others think of you, based on your actions and words. Reputation is based on opinion. In short, your reputation isn’t even part of the equation.
should you be more concerned with your reputation or character?
The world is full of Facebookers, Instagrammers, and Snapchatters striving to build up their reputation. I’m not saying any of these social media outlets are bad, but you need to check yourself— are you consumed with gaining more and more followers, or are you focused on the One you are to be following?
If you’re seeking Jesus, you have to remember that He is not going to pop up in your list of followers. He doesn’t “follow” you. He calls you to follow Him.
does your reputation match your character?
Your reputation can either line up with your character or not. If you’re living falsely and putting on fronts, your reputation is not truly reflecting who you are. This is so easy to do in all areas of life, but especially in a social media world. There are enough filters to go around to make you appear how you want to be seen by others.
Keep in mind that once you lose your reputation, it’s very hard to get back. This is a great thing if your reputation was of the negative persuasion, and then, as you are continually changed by Christ, others begin to see you differently. Those negative, old ways are left behind.
You look a little more like Him. Your character reflects someone who is living according to the Word and the Lord’s will for your life, and little by little, your reputation starts to line up with that. This is an awesome thing. As a Christian, it’s important to have the character of a woman who is pursuing righteousness.
Obviously, losing your reputation is not so great if it was once viewed as good and decent, and now is moving in the other direction.
the bottom line
It’s ok to be aware of our reputation, in terms of being sure you are doing your best to glorify God in your words, actions, and your conduct before others. However, if you’re so consumed with thinking about your reputation because you feel you have to be “fake” in order to keep up with appearances, then your main focus should be on developing a godly character. Allow the Lord to work in you, and eventually, your good reputation will prove itself.
As a woman of God, although you sometimes want to focus more on what the people right in front of you think, it’s more important to be aware of who you are before the Lord. Does your character reflect that of Christ or at least one that is progressively moving in that direction? If so, then your reputation will eventually catch up.
So, to answer the initial question:
“Is it ever ok for a Christian to lie?”
No. Do not be deceived in listening to what the world may tell you. According to what the Word says, the answer is: No. Lying creates a lifestyle that is contrary to the Lord's character and His intentions for us, and it weakens our integrity and taints our character.
There will always be times when you’re tempted. There will be times when it seems like the right thing to do, and when there seems to be no other foreseeable option.
Although you read some instances in Scripture where people lied and the outcome was favorable, lying is never something you see the Lord condone or praise in the Word. He is Truth, and as His follower, He wants you to pursue Him and all that He is so that you can become more and more like Him.
cancel out the noise
So, sister— hold fast to your honesty and integrity before the Lord. When the world tries to tell you how to live, pop on those noise-canceling headphones and drown it out. Purpose to only listen to what the Word says.
Quit following others. Instead, follow Him— and, thanks to the blood of Jesus and the Lord seeing us as righteous, I promise He’ll hit the “Like” button on your life every time.
Clothed in Kindness: 4 Biblical Ways to Be Kind
Kindness is goodness towards others that involves your whole being and mellows any harshness within you. So, it’s not just being kind to someone…
Did you know that as a Christian woman, you have a lot? I don’t know about you, but I often forget that. I feel I have little, whether it’s money, possessions, or the right tools to “get it done.” Sometimes this may be true— we all go through seasons of plenty and seasons of lack. Nevertheless, all the time we really do have all things— all the things that matter, anyway.
2 Peter 1:3 tells us that God has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness. All things. All things we need to live life and live a godly life. I’ll say it again, all things.
“Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. ”
This happens through the knowledge of Him. We come to know Him through spending time with Him in prayer and our quiet times— and through that knowledge, in His divine power, we have all things we need to walk out our faith.
As partakers of this divine nature, we have put off our old ways, and put on, in all diligence, His ways— faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, brotherly kindness, and the like.
The keyword here is diligence. The Lord gives us these things, but it takes diligence on our part— it takes a decision— to continually choose to put on these traits and live them out in our lives. It’s not passive. Just as we may have hangers of clothes in our closets, indeed we have clothes, yet we must make the decision to put them on in order to make them useful and effective in our lives. When we add these godly traits to our faith, we glorify God in our words, deeds, and life.
Colossians 3 tells us about 7 specific traits– what I like to call the Godly Woman Wardrobe. If you haven’t read the synopsis of these traits, start here: 7 Things Every Christian Woman Should Wear
Are you ready to step into the new? Today we’re looking at trait #2: Kindness.
What is kindness?
Kindness is compassion in action. Whereas compassion could simply be the feeling we have towards another in need— a sympathetic or empathetic thought or feeling— kindness is that feeling put into action. We don’t just look upon one who is suffering and feel sorry for them or feel their pain, we actually step in and do something about it.
“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness… ”
Kindness is an action. It’s the right words, the right gestures, and the right deeds. It communicates God’s love sincerely and plainly. Kindness has to be done and shown to another person.
RELATED: Part 1, The Godly Woman Wardrobe: 5 Ways to Show Compassion
Kindness is goodness towards others that involves your whole being and mellows any harshness within you. So, it’s not just being kind to someone—it’s that your BEING is kind. This means that it’s more than having good manners, right? Even the rudest of people can choose to have good manners when they want to. But, showing kindness is more than that.
Of course, as with any good thing, the example of kindness that we have comes from God Himself. So let’s take a look at His ultimate kindness so we can understand it a little bit better.
Kindness in the Bible
When we consider taking a tour through all the examples of kindness in the Bible, God’s kindness should be the first pit stop that we make. As the Maker of all things, He created kindness and embodies all there is to it. We need to look no further than who He is. Although we could pull many saints’ examples from Scripture, today we’re just going to focus on the One from who it all stems.
God’s ultimate kindness came in the form of the salvation He offers us. Even in our lowest and worst state, in our sin, His love still broke through and in His mercy and kindness He offered us a beautiful, free gift. This, of course, has nothing to do with us– we did nothing. We did not and cannot save ourselves. This is based on who He is, according to His mercy, faithfulness, and love.
“But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.”
In God’s kindness, goodness, and grace, He offers salvation to all— the Jew and the Gentile. We have been adopted and grafted into His beloved people, and we can choose to accept and remain in that kindness (Romans 11:22).
Yet in all of this, we shouldn’t think there is anything superior or special about us because we have experienced the kindness of God. God’s kindness is for everyone, for all. In the same respect, we also shouldn’t take it lightly. Despite our past, present, and future sins, He still remains faithful in His kindness toward us. For believers, in Christ, He no longer condemns us for past sins and doesn’t judge us for our current sins and future sins. For unbelievers, His kindness isn’t Him being slack– it’s meant to draw them to repentance. Thank God for the kindness He shows through His restraint, mercy, and patience (Romans 2:4).
What about us, sister? Can we show the same restraint, mercy, patience, and love in our lives?
A Kind Person: Are You?
As Christian women, kindness is something that should permeate our being. It’s not that we just choose to be kind in various situations, but the entire representation of our being should be that we are kind– who we are, at our core, is kindness. Titus 3:1 tells us that we should be ready for every good deed. This means that we aren’t sleeping on our kindness, sister! It’s a natural flow– we see a need, we fill it; we recognize that someone needs love, and we give it– simply because that’s who we are. We’re always ready, willing, and able.
The second verse of Titus 3 goes on to tell us specifically how kindness manifests itself in the life of a believer:
…to slander no one, not to be contentious, to be gentle, showing every consideration for all people. -Titus 3:2 NASB
Kindness, as our being, means we have a gentle and quiet spirit (1 Peter 3:4). We don’t slander or strive to cause division and contention with others; it’s just not who we are. And how do we do all this? By “showing every consideration for all people.” We see others how the Lord sees them, through His lens and perspective, not ours. When this is our vantage point, we can’t help but see the woman next to us as a fellow person, created in the image of God, just like we are. We can’t help to realize that our sister in Christ, even with her flaws, is still holy, blameless, and beloved, just as we are (in all of our flaws!).
Sister, when you adopt His kindness as your own and it rules your being, then being kind is absolutely the only logical thing that makes sense. You can truly be a kind person because His power working through you gives you the grace, patience, wisdom, and self-control to be so.
How to Be Kind: 4 Biblical Principles
Showing kindness isn’t a huge feat when we’re walking step-in-step with the Spirit. Here are 4 practical and biblical ways that you can show kindness as you walk out your faith.
#1: Show kindness through the things you do.
My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. -NKJV
You show kindness when you do things for others without expecting anything in return. You look out for others, offer a lending hand, and walk out the truth of the Word. One way to do this is to be the hands and feet of Jesus— you can share His truth by words, yes, but you must also share the truth of His character and His love (for all of us) by your deeds.
This goes for your enemies (Luke 6:35) and your friends, especially those who are of the household of faith (Galatians 6:10).
So, make that meal, offer to babysit, help her to her car, and don’t repay evil for evil. So much can be conveyed about our Lord by our actions.
The Lord leads the way in Kindness: Free 5-Day Devotional
Do you need to remember all God has done for you? Often, we don’t take the time to sit and reflect on His provision. Nevertheless, He keeps providing, doesn’t He? Download this new, 5-day devotional study, look back, and remember the goodness He has lavished in your life in the areas of your faith, marriage, motherhood, home, and finances. Then, open your eyes to all He is doing for you right now. Fill out the form below.
#2: Be kind with your words.
She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness. -Proverbs 31:26 NKJV
What does your speech sound like? Is kindness on your tongue all the time– in easy and hard situations? Even when you don’t agree with someone? Words are powerful and speak volumes about what’s in our hearts. The Word tells us to be sure what we have is edifying and imparts grace to the hearers (Ephesians 4:29). This is possible when we’re walking by the Spirit and being mindful of what He wants us to say in any given situation.
But, speaking kindly can also be a planned, intentional decision. Look for nice things to say to a sister– about her new haircut, her outfit, or the way she handled a particular situation. Are you thankful for the way she shared her talent or gift with you or others? Say so. Be a noticer and someone who speaks up. Kind words will be remembered.
#3: Put others above self.
Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another. -Romans 12:10 NKJV
We live in a world that says it’s acceptable to put yourself first. All the time, just look out for #1. Yet, this isn’t the way that Jesus lived. He always sought the needs of others first and took care of those around Him. He was about His Father’s business and lived to do His will. The same should be true for us.
When you live a life of kindness, brotherly love comes naturally. You care for the sister in your midst, whether she dropped a pacifier in front of your feet, or she’s grieving the loss of a loved one. No matter how busy you are in the moment, or how your day has shaped up so far, you take the time to give preference to others and help to meet their needs. You can extend yourself farther than you think you can, by the grace of God, through the strength of God.
#4: Forgive one another.
But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. -Luke 6:35-36 NKJV
Sister, we don’t deserve forgiveness from the Most High, yet He gives it to us through the blood of Christ. How can we not then extend that same forgiveness to others in our lives?
The Lord calls you to extend mercy– to follow the ultimate example of His kindness– His mercy, even to those who are unthankful and continue to live a life separated from His forgiveness. You’ll encounter some who care nothing of your forgiveness; they’ll still be spiteful and hateful toward you. Yet, it’s not your job to change their hearts. It is your job to love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return. You do this out of obedience to Him, not because you’re hoping to receive love and mercy back from the other person.
Remember, kindness expects nothing in return.
Bible Verses about Kindness
There are so many Bible verses about kindness. Here are a few to get you started. I encourage you to do your own reading, and find the stories of saints throughout Scripture that speak volumes of a life lived in kindness.
Psalm 31:21 NKJV
Blessed be the LORD, for He has shown me His marvelous kindness in a strong city!
Psalm 119:76 NKJV
Let, I pray, Your merciful kindness be for my comfort, according to Your word to Your servant.
Proverbs 19:22 NKJV
What is desired in a man is kindness, and a poor man is better than a liar.
Galatians 5:22 NKJV
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.
Ephesians 2:7 NKJV
…that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.
Titus 3:1-8 NKJV
Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men. For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another. But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works.
Romans 2:4 NASB
Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and restraint and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?
Romans 11:22 CSB
Therefore, consider God’s kindness and severity: severity toward those who have fallen but God’s kindness toward you — if you remain in his kindness. Otherwise you too will be cut off.
read more of the Godly Woman Wardrobe
5 Biblical Ways to Show Compassion
Showing compassion to others isn’t a one-size-fits-all. It will look different for each of us in every situation we encounter. Read Part 1 of The Godly Woman Wardrobe: Tender Mercies.
As women, we think a lot about what to wear, do we not? Sometimes, too much. We have certain outfits for different occasions; and certain accessories to go with those outfits. Once in a while, we even open up our closets, look at hangers of clothing and deem, we have nothing to wear. But, the amount of clothing we have isn’t everything. There are so many in this world who only have a few suitable outfits but can be dressed to perfection each and every day. No matter if our closets are full or not, what we put on spiritually is so much more important than the fashion we don on the outside.
It’s all about who we are in Christ.
In Christ,
We are the elect of God.
We are holy.
We are beloved.
Therefore...we can put on these traits that reflect Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit within us.
Colossians 3:10 states that once we’re in Christ, we have “put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him.”
In Christ, we have a renewed knowledge, whereas we are able to see, with the right perspective, who we are in Him. We’ve been created in the image of God, and finally, in Christ, our lens allows us to see ourselves and Him more clearly. Knowing these things, we can then decide (daily, not just once) to put on the characteristics of our new man– the characteristics that line up with Godly character.
I call this the Godly Woman Wardrobe. If you haven’t read the quick summary of all 7 pieces of the wardrobe, start here: 7 Things Every Christian Woman Should Wear.
Now, are you ready for your first outfit, sister?
Let’s dive into Tender Mercies.
What is Compassion?
Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies… Colossians 3:12 NKJV
Tender mercies is a fancy way of saying compassion. The Hebrew and Greek words translated “compassion” in the Bible mean “to have mercy, to feel sympathy and to have pity.” Compassion is a necessary part of the Christian life. We weren’t meant to live on an island, only concerned with ourselves and our own affairs. We live in a broken world full of sin, and that sin brings pain, hurt, loss, and need. Whereas we can’t solve every problem in all of the world, the Lord doesn’t want us to be blind to what’s right in front of us either.
Compassion comes to life as we live out 1 Corinthians 13, fully embodying what Christ-like love looks like. We are kind; we show patience; we seek the welfare of others; we give others hope and endure with them.
When our eyes are open and we see others how the Lord sees them, we are able to slow down, step into their shoes, and seek Him for ways to help.
The Lord is our example. As the creator and master of compassion Himself– He is our guide. We only need to look to Him for ways to show compassion.
Examples of Compassion
We have so many examples of compassion in the Bible. How could we not? Our God is all-knowing, loving, patient, and powerful. He sees our needs and hears the cries of those who call to Him (Nehemiah 9:9-10).
“As a father pities his children, so the Lord pities those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust.”
Just as when your child is tired, you are more patient, you understand their unruly behavior a bit better, and you don’t expect too much of them— this is God's way with us. In His wisdom, although He knows the end from the beginning, He remembers our lowly state, that we are but dust, and has compassion on us in our times of suffering, lamenting, sorrow, weariness, and grief.
As we do with our own kids, He remembers that we too are but children— His children. In our frailty, weakness, and stumbles, He has mercy and compassion. It’s almost beyond our understanding and comprehension– the amount of compassion He has toward us.
This compassion comes to those who fear Him— the reverential fear of the Lord. It’s for those who love Him and call Him Father; for His daughters, those of us who are in Christ: holy, beloved, and the elect of God.
Jesus, being 100% both God and Man, in having the character of God, not only had the Father-like compassion described here, but as Son of Man, He was able to sympathize and empathize with our weaknesses. He experienced and expressed this compassion during His time here on earth.
Remember that time He looked over the great crowd that was following Him, and He desired to teach them many things because in His compassion He saw they were like a sheep without a shepherd (Mark 6:34)?
Or, what about the time He came ashore and met a great crowd, immediately had compassion on them, and began to heal their sick (Matthew 14:14)?
And, perhaps one of the most relatable times Jesus showed compassion– when He was at Lazarus’s gravesite. Although He knew what He was about to do, He wept. (John 11:33-35).
We aren’t all-powerful like God, but sister, we do have the power of the Holy Spirit in us. Following His lead, we too can show compassion to others in similar ways as we look upon their state, see their need, and allow God to use us to fill it.
Showing Compassion: 5 Biblical Ways
Showing compassion to others isn’t a one-size-fits-all. It will look different for each of us in every situation we encounter. But when we make the decision to live for the Lord on purpose we will seek ways to please Him, and one way to do that is to show care for those whom He created in ways He tells us to. Here are 5 biblical ways to show compassion:
#1: Comfort those who are going through what you’ve been through.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. -2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ESV
Our God is the God of all comfort. His love extends to the deepest depths of our soul, our grief, and our struggles. Because we experience His comfort in our times of need, we then have the framework for how we can give the same type of comfort to others.
Navigating our own struggles gives us the understanding, sympathy, and empathy needed to help someone else go through the same situation in the future. We can reach out to them appropriately, say the right words, or do what is most helpful to them because we have “been there, done that.” One of the greatest forms of compassion felt by another is the realization that someone “gets them” or understands.
Use your trials as the testimonies and “work experience” needed to guide someone who’s currently on a similar journey.
showing compassion: a look at Romans 12 (free download)
Being intentional in our actions yields a life that brings glory to God— but only when our actions line up with His Word! Romans 12 has so much wisdom for us in how to treat others and how to show compassion on a daily basis. Download your FREE copy featuring 25 ways to encourage, build up and show compassion to others. Fill out the form below.
#2: Compassion is shown by doing.
But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. -1 John 3:17-18 NKJV
Oftentimes, much more good is done by doing, not by saying. We may not always have the right words, but we can have the right actions. When we see a need, we can step up and do something to help. It simply takes a watchful eye, a watchful heart, and the willingness to extend what we have (time, effort, money, possessions) to another person.
Let us not “shut up our hearts” from one another. Showing compassion is synonymous with showing God’s love.
#3: Don’t judge others for the situations they’re in.
Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. -Matthew 7:1-2 ESV
It’s easy to look at someone with a critical eye and judge their mistakes against your better judgment. We all are infallible humans who are tempted by a sinful world. We all have the free will to decide whether or not we will choose to walk by the Spirit in a moment. None of us choose perfectly 100% percent of the time.
Showing compassion means we step alongside a person and show them the love of God. We offer them the truth of the Word, encourage them to get back on track and help them see more clearly the path of wisdom if they’ve decided to deviate to foolishness.
Yes, we must stay on guard ourselves so we don’t fall into similar temptation, but at the same time, we offer grace, not judgment.
#4: Rejoice or weep with those who do likewise.
Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. -Romans 12:15 ESV
Live where they are. As sisters in Christ, the Lord implores us to be actively involved in each other’s lives. In the good times– be the person standing alongside your sister, cheering for her or with her. Rejoice in all things honorable and rejoiceable. And, in the hard circumstances and trials of life, hold up her arms, offer kind words, or be the shoulder on which she can cry. We need each other in all seasons of life. Be sure to show up. If nothing else, just show up.
#5: Keep your eyes open and follow the Lord’s lead.
When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things. -Mark 6:34
During Jesus’s time here on earth, one thing we can’t deny was that He noticed people– all the time, in every situation. The God who sees, still sees us today; and He desires that we see people too. Be a person who notices– the person alone, the one who is hurting, the friendless, and helpless. The child; the widow; the sick. It takes being perceptive and patient to see the need; then it takes prayer to know what action to take. In all these things we need to have our eyes wide open– looking above to heavenly things enough to know what the Lord would have us do according to His will (Colossians 3:1-2).
Showing compassion is a beautiful expression of a life lived for the glory of God. As we pursue Christ and His righteousness, we become more and more like Him. His desires become our desires, and therefore we become His hands and feet.
We just need to be usable. Be willing. Be loving.
Bible verses about compassion
There are so many Bible verses about compassion. Here are a few to get you started as you daily choose to put on tender mercies.
Lamentations 3:21-23 NKJV
This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.
Galatians 6:2 NKJV
Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
1 Peter 3:8 NKJV
Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous;
Psalm 86:15 NKJV
But You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth.
2 Peter 3:9 NKJV
The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.
Matthew 14:14 NKJV
And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick.
Be sure to read the rest of the 7-part Godly Woman Wardrobe series!
Having an Attitude of Hospitality
Showing hospitality isn’t as complicated as we may think. Whether inside or outside your home, it’s important that we get our attitude right first. From there, following the Lord’s guidance, hospitality can be as easy as 1-2-3.
You know the feeling of being the “new person”— when you walk into a room and you don’t know anyone; or maybe you’re in a new place and you’re not quite sure what to do or where to go? Think about one of those experiences right now. Do you remember how you felt?
Awkward?
Unseen?
Or, maybe too seen (Hey everybody, look— who’s that??)
I consider myself to be an introverted extrovert. I love meeting new people and making new friends, but I need help to break into already-established groups and friendships. Honestly, I don’t enjoy being the one who doesn’t know anyone, or the one everyone wants to ask a million questions of in an effort to get to know (that part mainly stems from the fact that I don’t care to be the center of attention!).
Yet, as much as I don’t like being the center of attention, what I like even less is feeling invisible.
Not noticed, unapproached, or ignored.
Even those who aren’t huge fans of a ton of people interaction throughout the day don’t want to be completely forgotten about or unseen all the time.
I can think of a handful of experiences I’ve had where this has happened. I was in a place where I knew no one, and no one seemed to care to know me. It wasn’t the best of times.
In these moments, what we’re looking for is hospitality– an attitude of hospitality. And the good news is, sister, this attitude is something each and every one of us can possess if we’re willing.
What is hospitality?
A basic definition of hospitality is the act of being friendly and welcoming to guests and visitors. Normally when we think of the word hospitality, we think of inviting someone into our home, offering them a drink, snack, or meal, and making them feel welcome. Or perhaps, we think of what is known as the hospitality industry– hotels and places that are in the business of welcoming guests and visitors to the highest degree of comfort.
But, let’s not be too overly zealous, sister. This may not be us. If not, good news– we don’t have to have the ultra-clean home and amazingly-stocked fridge that’s ready to take on anyone at any time. Truth be told, I don’t particularly like uninvited guests! I don’t like the feeling of being unprepared, only having water and a handful of Goldfish crackers left to offer a visitor. It makes me feel inadequate.
You see, sister– herein lies the problem. If you are like me and the thought of always needing to be ready and willing to have people over causes you any amount of stress or thoughts of inadequacy, you’re overthinking hospitality.
Hospitality isn’t perfection. It’s not having all the right foods. It’s not having the comfiest guest room. If you do have all of these things– that’s amazing! But, those aren’t the only things that make hospitality.
Hospitality is an attitude. It is a willingness to be open, welcoming, friendly, and available (yes, sometimes to strangers and uninvited guests!).
It’s following the Lord’s leading to invite someone into your world– whether that is via your home or your heart.
And, with the Lord’s help, we can all bear that attitude.
Hospitality in the Bible
There are numerous examples of those who showed hospitality in the Bible. Let’s briefly look at three.
Lydia
Lydia was a woman who was said to be a worshiper of God. Upon hearing Paul speak, her heart was opened by the Lord and she responded to what Paul was preaching. The next thing you know, she and her household were baptized and she invited Paul and his companions to stay with her (Acts 16:14-15). Strangers. Men she didn’t know. Undoubtedly, she was led by the Lord to open her heart and her home to these people who had just blessed her with the Truth.
Abraham
Of course, we can’t forget about Abraham’s measure of hospitality as seen in Genesis 18, when he is visited by three men, one of who is the Lord. At the time of their arrival, Abraham was resting in the heat of the day; yet, he immediately rose up and invited them to stay.
“Do not neglect hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it. ”
He offered them water to wash their feet, a place to rest, bread, and a meal to eat. There was no second thought; no hesitation. Again, there was a trusting attitude of submission to the Lord that was apparent in the way that he treated these guests.
Boaz
Or how about the way Boaz showed hospitality to Ruth as he allowed her to glean in his fields? This ordinary gesture of kindness yielded extraordinary results in the life of Boaz, Ruth, and their entire family line, which traces down to Jesus!
As is evident from these examples of hospitality in the Bible, we can’t do it without His lead and guidance. We shouldn’t do it without His lead and guidance either!
HOSPITALITY: AN ATTITUDE TO LIVE BY (FREE DOWNLOAD)
Living on purpose and being intentional in our actions yields a life that brings glory to God— but only when our actions line up with His Word! Romans 12 has so much wisdom for us in how to treat others, whether we’re “entertaining strangers” or friends! Download your FREE copy featuring 25 ways to encourage, build up and show hospitality to others. Fill out the form below.
An attitude of hospitality
Hospitality is most clearly seen and recognized in the forms we just spoke about— inviting someone into your home; having someone over for coffee or a meal. Again, we can find many instances of hospitality in the Bible that give us this clear representation of such a beautiful thing. I’m even including some Bible verses about hospitality below so you can do some further reading!
However, right now, I’d like to circle back and focus specifically on hospitality as an attitude. In other words, outside of the many facets and ways we can go about being hospitable by bringing people into our homes, how can we show hospitality in a way that simply invites people into our hearts, expecting nothing in return?
3 simple ways to show hospitality
These steps aren’t complicated, sister! Even for an introverted extrovert like me, they are doable, not too intimidating, and with the Lord’s help, very effective at showing His love and kindness in a practical sort of way.
#1- Seek out the newbie.
When you’re in a place of familiarity— church, at your child’s school event, or extracurricular activities— look for what’s unfamiliar. The newest person in the room simply wants to be seen. Go out of your way to say hello, offer a smile, and a friendly greeting. What may seem like a simple gesture from you will be much appreciated (and remembered) by them.
#2- Put yourself in their shoes.
Think about what you’d want someone to say to you if you were the new person in the room. Invite them to sit with you; introduce them to your circle of friends; or, show them where they should go to check in, grab a coffee, use the restroom, or speak to the person in charge.
Remember, when we’re in new places, our senses immediately go into overdrive– we’re checking out all the people, the sounds, the environment, and trying to read the room— all at the same time. It can be overwhelming! Be the one who helps to calm their overwhelm by simply being available to assist them in navigating unchartered waters.
#3- Help them to feel like they belong.
Once you’ve helped your new acquaintance get settled, invite them to join you in a conversation with your friends; instead of pointing them in the direction of the coffee area, walk over with them; or, introduce your kids to their kids. Make a point to get to know them as soon as you can and help them to get to know you. People want to be seen and heard, but not by a “robotic welcome committee”. They want to know that there’s a chance that you could become real, authentic friends– so begin that way.
RELATED: Creating Community Among Sisters
do you have the attitude?
The beautiful thing about hospitality– whether inside or outside of your home– is that it creates the opportunity for the stranger to become a friend; for the unfamiliar to become familiar; and for the newbie to become one of the crew.
Again, sister, this attitude begins with us seeking the Lord and being obedient to what He wants us to do in the moment. If we aren't seeking Him, there’s a good chance we’ll neglect opportunities to show His love, grace, and kindness to others. Even if we’re quiet, reserved, and a little unsure of what to say– if the Lord is in it, He’ll direct your steps and your words. And, He deserves all the glory anyway!
Bible verses about hospitality
Need a little more inspiration (or motivation) to get out there and be hospitable? Rest assured, the Lord desires for us to show hospitality, so you know He’s going to equip us along the way! Here are a few Bible verses about hospitality to save and remember.
1 Peter 4:9-10 NKJV
Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
Hebrews 13:1-2 NASB
Let love of the brothers and sisters continue. Do not neglect hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.
Luke 14:13-14 NASB
But whenever you give a banquet, invite people who are poor, who have disabilities, who are limping, and people who are blind; and you will be blessed, since they do not have the means to repay you; for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.
Genesis 19:2 NASB
And he said, “Now behold, my lords, please turn aside into your servant’s house, and spend the night, and wash your feet; then you may rise early and go on your way.”
Genesis 18:2-5 NASB
When he raised his eyes and looked, behold, three men were standing opposite him; and when he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them and bowed down to the ground, and said, “My Lord, if now I have found favor in Your sight, please do not pass Your servant by. Please let a little water be brought and wash your feet, and make yourselves comfortable under the tree; and I will bring a piece of bread, so that you may refresh yourselves; after that you may go on, since you have visited your servant.”
Acts 16:15 NASB
Now when she and her household had been baptized, she urged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house and stay.” And she prevailed upon us.
2 Kings 4:8-10 NASB
Now a day came when Elisha went over to Shunem, where there was a prominent woman, and she urged him to eat food. And so it was, as often as he passed by, that he turned in there to eat food. And she said to her husband, “Behold now, I am aware that this is a holy man of God passing by us repeatedly. Please, let’s make a little walled upper room, and let’s set up a bed for him there, and a table, a chair, and a lampstand; then it shall be, when he comes to us, that he can turn in there.”
Romans 12:13 NASB
…contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality.
Be faithful to what the Lord is calling you to do, sister! In that, who knows…you may find your next best friend! +Live on purpose+
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