“Whatever you hav learned or received or heard from me,nor seen in me – put into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.“ -Philippians 4:9
A value or ethic is a principle or standard about what is important in one’s life. A followers values hold as important principles of life that Jesus taught.
A follower of Christ does not change over time. They are consistent from generation to generation since their foundations are found in God’s Word.
“All Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness, they each person who belongs to God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.“ -2 Timothy 3:16-17
The values the Jesus taught in the New Testament can be Somme up in two thoughts –love God and Love others. Here are some samples of values that are presented in the Word of God.
- Generosity -This is the core value of being kind and unselfish.
“The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor.” – Proverbs 22:9
- Courage – The value is characterized by boldness and confidence, it’s the opposite of fear.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid. Don’t be dismayed, for the Lord God is with you wherever you go.“ -Joshua 1:9
- Love – is a fundamental characteristic of who God is and it’s a value that I’d to describe His children as well.
“We love because He first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
- Respect – This value is to be conscious that God has created all people in His image. As a response, we show respect to all.
“Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear aGod, honor the king.” – 1 Peter 2:17
- Hope – The value of hope is confident expectation. It’s a firm assurance in God.
“Indeed surly there is a hope, and your hope will not be cut off.” – Proverbs 23:17
- Peace – There are many aspects of this value mentioned in the Bible. It refers to rest and tranquility and ultimate peace is a gift from God. God’s peace is Shalom Peace.
“So, then, let’s follow after things which make for peace, and things by which we may build one another up.” -Romans 14:19
Applying These Values
A follower of Jesus is someone whose behavior and heart reflects Jesus Christ. That’s what it means to be a true follower of Jesus. Applying these values is to be the intention of every true believer. That’s why it is written by the Apostle Paul, “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me – put it not practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” -Philippians 4:9
As we read God’s Word, we become to know God better, and understand His purpose for is in the world. We learn the values He holds dear and we grow to love those values too. The Holy Spirit works through us to spread God’s love through good works, leading others to eternal life through Jesus.
God is very clear in His Word how to apply each of these values He holds dear. One way to tell if you hold these values God hold dear, is how we treat others.
“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:9-10
“The Bible tells us that, “One who gives to the poor had no lack; but one who closes his eyes will have many curses.” – Proverbs 28:27
Jesus looked people in need directly in the eye. He saw them. As their creator. He loved them. He didn’t turn His eyes away from poverty or illness. He stopped and gave people hope. He wasn’t motivated by what people in need could offer Him. He had a genuine love for them and wanted to help meet their needs -physical, emotional, and spiritual. He always acted with compassion.
True followers of Jesus are called to do the same, we are called to love God and Lovr people. As Jesus says,
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. A second likewise is this, Yoy shall love your neighbor as yourself.“ -Matthew 22:37
I believe that we as Americans have gotten so spoiled with all the blessings we have we have gotten very selfish.
Third-world countries are class countries are classified ad counties that are poor or developing. Counties that are part of the “third world are generally characterized by three things.
- High rates of powerty
- Economic and/or political instability
- High mortality rates
Despite that the government in America is trying to turn us into a third-world Country. We are still rich, if you have food to eat, a roof over your head, and drive a vehicle. You would be considered rich in a third world country.
With all the people who are claiming to be oppressed, and offended or hate the country we live in. Where did America’s value system go?
Where do your values come from?
From Pity to Praise 