Second Timothy 2:15 is the key verse to my new Bible study, Mama, You Be the Difference — “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of in presenting yourself to Him. No one can do this for you, but you. By presenting yourself to God, this will not only impact your life but those around you.”
What does it look like to present yourself to God?
First, we must come to Him every day and seek Him with all of our hearts. Read His Word, pray, and enjoy His presence.
“Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.” Isaiah 55:6
Secondly, we must search our hearts and see if there are any unclean attitudes or actions that aren’t pleasing to Him.
“Search me, O God, and know my heart: Try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 13:23-24
Thirdly, present your bodies and life as a living sacrifice, acceptable to God.
“Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.” Romans 12:1
Lastly, adjust your ways, if needed.
“that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.” Ephesians 4:22-24
No matter where you find yourself, it starts with you. You can be the difference.
People don’t want to know how much you know about Jesus; they want to see the resemblance of Jesus in your life.
You be the difference in the way you love.
You be the difference in expressing joy.
You be the difference in having peace in a brokenness.
You be the difference in extending patience to others.
You be the difference in showing kindness to others.
You be the difference in good deeds performed.
You be the difference in being gentle in your attitude.
You be the difference in being faithful in the small things.
You be the difference by exercising self-control.
The fruit of the Spirit provides life and refreshment, not only to yourself, but to those around you—it benefits others. But it starts with you!
Remember you are a work in progress. Every step you take closer to the heart of God, will help transform your thinking and actions. It is a life-time of learning and living it out. Don’t give up. You got this! Your role is so important! You are so important!
(To find out more about Mama, You Be the Difference Bible study click here)
Journeying with Him,
Jessie