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There are some people whose strength of character, integrity and profound faith cause them to appear almost super human. Their walk with God is so intimate that it seems that their feet are above the ground. I've been blessed in my life to meet a few "oaks of righteousness." Now, they were human, to be sure, but their character and their relationship with God placed them on another plane...another level than most of us.
So what is it about these individuals that make them different? What do they do that we can emulate? What do we need to learn that will enable us to live the life of faith at a higher level? I believe that people of faith who possess such strength also have some other important characteristics. First, I believe that they are teachable...they acknowledge that there is always new or undiscovered information to be learned. Second, I believe that they are prayerful...they believe in and practice the power and efficacy of prayer. They are "praying saints." Third, they are humble. Though their faith is strong they never forget that sin is ever present and therefore they keep their egos in check. Fourth, they are hopeful...they expect newness and change. They expect blessing and opportunity. Finally they are helpful...always trying to share the blessings that God has given them with others.
I don't know about you, but I'm striving to be an "oak of righteous." Each day, I rise with the desire to be the best that I can be... for God, for my family, for God's people and for me. I am working every day to be a better Christian, a better husband and father and grandfather, a better pastor, a better role model...a better person. Some days I do better than others, but I keep on trying. You can be better. You can do more. You can be stronger, if you are willing to do the work that is necessary. Today is the day to start over. With God, you can always begin again. Be the "oak of righteousness" that God created you to be.
Stronger every day,
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