Lives That Testify of Jesus and His Reign

6/7/1999

Hey ; ) Remember last year when some folks from Australia were staying with us? One of their remarks was along the lines of, “Of all the many, many, many groups of Believers that we have stayed with in the last year—the Believers here are the ONLY ones we’ve met that are not majorly overweight. It is a Testimony to Jesus that you know Him and walk with Him, and the fruit of the Spirit (self-control, etc.) is evident. This is a strong statement that the church and books are from God, too.” ....ALL of that to say, as I remembered a few weeks ago that they had said this, I became jealous for this Testimony for Jesus, as I think HE is jealous for it. But, I also knew I should lose 10 pounds or more myself before I sent this to anyone else to pray on and act on. I was wondering if each of us that need to do so, would PLEASE, for Jesus’ Testimony and credibility, PLEASE make sure that you are CONFIRMATION of the Fruits of the Spirit? There are many that are considering the Teachings of Jesus of Nazareth concerning His Life, and for His Testimony it would be WONDERFUL if we could, for Him, continue always to demonstrate, even without a word (as we did with our guests by not being overweight) that Jesus’ Ways are Right! “The LIFE becomes the Light of men!!” (Jn. 1:4). Let’s all help each other, with grace and love and truth... Let’s love each other into greatness!!!! Between you and Jesus, would you live in the Fruits of the Spirit and take care of any weight problem (impatience problem, etc.)?!! Love, m 9:29 a.m.

A few weeks later...Good morning : ) If you knew God was calling you to a better Testimony of His Goodness by crushing self-indulgence in your life... just wondering if you have FOLLOWED THROUGH and made real changes in your life as a response to the Spirit of God? Are you offering REAL gifts to Him? Are you helping those around you, too? One young man has taken MAJOR steps with food and exercise. : ) 9:17 a.m.

An additional related thought... What is the attitude a child of God has toward the delicacies of this world (the sights and sounds, the tasty foods, the nice clothes, exciting technologies and beautiful furnishings) if he truly is making his home in another Realm? “When you sit to dine with a ruler, note well what is before you, and put a knife to your throat if you are given to gluttony. Do not crave his delicacies, for THAT FOOD IS DECEPTIVE. Do not wear yourself out to get rich; have the wisdom to show restraint. Cast but a GLANCE at riches, and they are gone...” (Prov. 23:1-5). —dw 10:11 a.m.