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True Religion and Inner Renewal
spirit of Christ dwell in you richly and your faith will
become stronger and stronger, enabling you to resist
the efforts of the evil one. Rid yourself of any thoughts
or habits that would hinder you from glorifying Christ in
your life. Make some quiet time for yourself. Hear the
Word of God as often as you can. Fill your mind and
soul with it, and let your conversation be guided by the
Spirit. Worship with and socialize with Christians.
--
Margaret Garrett, Tucker, Georgia
Go to the source. Find out what God had to say on
tne matter. Don't rely on the opinions of your parents,
your friends, your children, your spouse, or even your
minister. After all, they won't have to answer for your
life someday. You will! Give yourself a break and allow
yourself to relax. Read the Bible, and share with
someone how you felt the day you became a Christian.
Listen to hymns, go to a retreat, or a marriage
enrichment seminar. Ask your parent, child, or spouse
to articulate what they love about you. Set in on a class
of small children learning about God.
Read
inspirational books. Volunteer in a homeless or
battered women shelter. Invite a stranger for a meal or
family holiday. Read the Bible. Take your dog to visit
the aged in a nursing home. Ask a co-worker to go to
church with you.
--
Kim Swieciki, Portland, Maine
"If any man among you seems to be religious, and
bridleth not his tongue, but he deceives his own heart,
this man's religion is vain. Pure religion and undefiled
before God is this -- visit the fatherless and widows in
their affliction and keep yourself unspotted from the
world," (James 1:26, 27). People will not know we are
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