Psychology developed what is called the humanistic perspective, in which human nature is viewed as basically good. This is the philosophy that rules over our Western society. The world’s philosophy is creating a world that continually is getting more and more selfish. This philosophy is in direct contrast to the word of God.

The Bible teaches us that human nature is sin nature. Matthew 15:19: For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander. Another verse adds coveting, wickedness, deceit, envy, pride — all these evil things come from within.

God says our nature is not good, and the only way to truly change that is by accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior and inviting God into our hearts and minds to change this selfish human nature. Only God can do that. Only God can satisfy our spiritual hunger. Nothing else the world seeks can — not power, money, success, nor individualism.

See, if you adopt the humanistic philosophy of life, there is no need for a savior — no need for God. This type of thinking is creating a very selfish mentality: thinking only about me — but God says to die to self and begin to take on His characteristics.

It’s your choice what philosophy you choose to live by. One leads to eternal death, and one leads to eternal life — you choose.

Just a thought,

PSS

I want to talk with you all about the difference between being tempted and being tested. You know, it’s like what we see in James 1:13, where it tells us plainly, "Let no one say when he is tempted, 'I am being tempted by God,' for God cannot be tempted with evil, and He Himself tempts no one." That's a game changer, isn’t it? It shows us clearly that God’s in the business of testing us, not tempting us.

Now, let's break it down. Temptation — that's the enemy's playground. He throws these curveballs at us, hoping we'll swing and miss. It's all about pulling us away from our faith, from the path God has set for us. The devil? He knows where we're weak, and he hits us where it hurts, trying to trip us up, to bring us down. But here's the kicker — we have the power to stand firm against these temptations. God's equipped us with His Word, His Spirit, and a community of faith that has our back.

On the flip side, when God tests us, it's a whole different ball game. He's not out to get us; He's out to grow us. Think of it like spiritual training. Every test is an opportunity to level up in our faith, to come out stronger, more resilient. It's about refining us, making us more like Jesus, ready and equipped for whatever comes our way. These tests, they're a sign of His love, His commitment to making us the best version of ourselves.

So, family, as we face life's challenges, let's keep this in mind: Temptations are the enemy's way of trying to break us down, but God's tests — they're His way of building us up. Let's lean into that; let's embrace the tests with open arms, knowing they're all about making us stronger in Him. And when temptation comes knocking? We stand firm, we fight the good fight, and we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. Together, with God on our side, we're unstoppable. Let's do this, Legacy Church!

Just a thought,

PSS

Breaking strongholds to leave one's old life behind and follow God is a transformative journey that requires deep self-reflection, steadfast faith, and a commitment to change. Strongholds, often manifesting as deeply ingrained habits, thoughts, or behaviors that keep us from fully embracing God's path, can be formidable barriers to spiritual growth. Overcoming these requires not just recognition of their existence but a sincere desire to lay them at God's feet. This process often begins with prayer, asking for divine guidance and strength to break free from the chains of the past. It's about opening one’s heart to God’s transformative power, allowing His grace to renew one’s mind and spirit.

The path to breaking strongholds and following God is also one of community and scripture. Surrounding oneself with a community of faith can provide the support and encouragement needed to navigate this challenging journey. Engaging deeply with scripture offers wisdom and insight, acting as a mirror that reflects both our imperfections and God's perfect love and forgiveness. It is in the context of scripture that people find the strength to confront and dismantle the strongholds in their lives, drawing closer to God with each step. This journey is not about achieving perfection but about striving to align one's life more closely with God's will, acknowledging that we are works in progress, dependent on God's grace.

Ultimately, leaving one's old life behind and following God is an act of surrender and faith. It involves trusting in God's plan for our lives, even when the path is unclear. This journey is marked by moments of vulnerability, where letting go of control and allowing God to lead becomes the source of true strength and freedom. As strongholds break and fall away, what emerges is a life transformed by God's love, a testament to the power of faith to change us from the inside out. This transformation is not instantaneous but a continual process of growth and renewal, where each day offers a new opportunity to live more fully in the light of God's grace.

Ephesians 4:21-24

Just a thought,

PSS

We live in a world where we have so many options.

Choices:

If you want a soda, does that mean Coke, Pepsi, Dr Pepper, Sprite, etc.? If you want a restaurant, do you want steak, Italian food, Mexican food, Chinese food, etc.?  It’s the same thing with buying shoes or clothes. We are presented with so many options that at times it is difficult to make a decision.

Indecision:

Indecision means: the inability to make decisions quickly : a wavering between two or more possible courses of action.

Indecision is paralyzing, and our decisions do determine our destiny. So, we had better make the right ones. There is so much pressure that every decision seems to be life or death. It’s just not true. Sure, some decisions are more important than others, and we won’t get them all right. When we blow it, we are to learn from it and grow. But we have to make decisions every day, and the worst place, most frustrating place, to be is in the place of indecision.

Decision:

So, what are we to do? Firstly, let’s realize as Christians we have the word of God to help lead and guide us, to go to for direction. It is our map to lead us to the right path. It will help us make decisions. Secondly, don’t attempt to make a lot of decisions at once. Deal with one thing at a time and begin limiting your options. This will help you make decisions.

Along with the Bible, believing it enough to do it, act on it, will always be the best guide in making sound decisions — decisions that will bless us.

Just a thought,

PSS