Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Spiritual Recyclers

There is only so much one can here about Global warming. Save the plant. Go green. We hear about the holes in the ozone layers. Pollution in the air. Melting of the ice. We are constantly told to recycle plastic, paper, aluminum, glass, batteries, computer parts and so much more.

God has given us this planet to use, not abuse. I agree that we need to take care of our planet so that our future children will have a good environment to enjoy. We need to be responsible for picking up trash, recycling, and keeping the air clean. Every one of us can do our part so that we have a clean and safe planet.

While taking care of our environment is important, it is of the utmost importance that Jesus followers are continually recycling spiritual behaviors that will bring about a godly and spiritual church and world environment.

While I may have little or no influence on global warming regulations or getting factories to stop putting out pollution in our air, I do have a tremendous amount of influence with those I am around by the way that I conduct myself as a Christ follower.

The world at large needs Christ followers who are committed to spiritual recycling. To demonstrate behaviors that is godly, holy, and helpful for others to see Christ in our lives. Here is a list of vitally important spiritual behaviors that need to be a constant in our spiritual recycle bins:

1. Be positive – Philippians 2:14 says to do everything without arguing or complaining.
2. Be a builder – Ephesians 4:29 says to build up others according to their needs.
3. Be kind – Galatians 5:22 says that kindness is a bi-product of a Spirit controlled life.
4. Be friendly – 1 Peter 4:9 says to offer up hospitality.
5. Be lovers – 1 Peter 1:22 says to love deeply from the heart.

These are just some of the spiritual characteristics that must be recycled daily so that the world will know that we are truly Christ follower. Our love for God, Jesus, and Spirit will compel us to be constantly aware of what we are to keep in our spiritual recycle bins. When we make it a habit to be filled with God-stuff, then our world with be a much better place to live.

Remember, Be God Controlled!

Brian