(a chapter from my book, Facing Change)
When we reconnect with our God, the Creator of the Universe, we re-establish our personhood.
When we reconnect with our personhood, we rediscover our humanity. Personhood is restored, humanity is restored, purity is restored, holiness is restored, and wholeness is restored.
When many people in a community become restored, we will soon have a whole and functional community, which in turn forms whole and functional nations.
The primary key to re-establishing one’s personhood depends on one’s commitment to living the Word of God. That is our personal responsibility and commitment. Taking the necessary daily steps is the discipline required for long-term results.
Feelings have a role to play. In the short term, they are indicators and warning signs. They tell us something is happening. They warn us of impending danger. They are our protection. We should pay attention to our feelings. In the long term, feelings are frequently transient and unreliable.
On the other hand, commitment is a long-term decision; subsequent and consistent action based on that decision is required. It is an act of the will. [Thanks, Pastor Ed Young!] I will give you one example: joy is the long-term internal state of well-being, but happiness is a short-term transient feeling. We can experience joy through both good and challenging times. Still, we might experience happiness momentarily when good things happen or feel good.
Faith operates in the spirit of a born-again Christian. The spirit comes alive when one is born again. At this time, each born-again Christian is given a new life and created anew as a new person. We are made right before God because we have faith in Christ. [Romans 3:22 NLT]
Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory. [Romans 5:1 NLT]
Dear Abba Father, Lord Jesus Christ,
We leave our earthly problems and burdens with You, Lord. At this time, the world may seem a troubled place, restless and hopeless for many people. Lord, You said You will lift us up. Lord, we will stand steadfast and strong, shoulder to shoulder. Lord, we pray that many will know Your goodness and provision. Lord, we pray that many will turn to seek Your face and Your kingdom. Lord, we pray that many will see You are the Almighty One, Always Majestic and Magnificent. Lord Jesus Christ, You intercede for us before the Father. Lord, You are the mediator and guarantor of this new covenant; blessing is our portion. Lord, Your blessings are our double portion. Lord, let our cup run over with Your blessings and Your goodness. Lord, return to us the years that the locusts have eaten. Lord, You are our fortress, shield, shelter, and strength, and Your glory is our rear guard. Lord, we honour You with our first fruits. Lord, let our barns be filled with grain and our vats overflow with good wine.
May the grace and peace of Abba Father the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
Thank You, Abba Father, Lord Jesus Christ.
In the Name of Jesus, Amen.
Word Sabre, scribe for Abba Father, LORD GOD, Lord Most High, Lord Jesus Christ.