Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1
Is there such a thing, you may ask, as you read the title of this blog, “Good F.A.T.” Last year, I shared about bad fats in my blog, “Cut the F.A.T.”. Fears, attitudes and temptations that can clog up our minds. I realize now I needed to follow-up on a way to replace the bad F.A.T. with good F.A.T. This is something I am trying to develop in my own journey of healthy soul care. Good F.A.T. is Faith, Adoration and Truth.
I am currently sitting in a food pantry writing this blog as I wait for “clients” to come get FREE Financial Health Check-ups through CAP (Christians Against Poverty) while they wait in line to get their food. Our financial health check-ups provide a quick assessment of their current financial situation and provides a restorative plan. This is only one of the services CAP provides free to the community. Unfortunately, some here are looking for a hand-out, not a hand-up. The same could be said of my spiritual journey. Do I just come to God for a “hand-out” of blessings or do I truly want a “hand-up,” spiritual transformation in my life? Feeding my faith with good FAT over bad FAT can be a useful and healthy spiritual practice. Below is a healthy restorative spiritual plan.
Faith
Faith over fear is a mindset shift. Do I have more faith in my current circumstances or fear? Faith needs to be seen as a foundation, provision and protection. Faith as foundations is an initial trust in the Lord. Faith in provision is usually seen during life’s challenges. It grows and produces fruit and more faith through hardships. God calls us to pick up a shield of faith as we walk daily with him for our protection, guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. It is important that faith is not just adorned, but utilized in our daily lives. Faith ultimately pleases God.
Adoration
Adoration over attitude. Adoration is giving praise and thanksgiving to the Lord. It is easy to fall into bad or wrong attitudes. Having a heart of gratitude and praise prevents those attitudes to invade our minds and emotions. God requires us to keep our hearts with all diligence for out of it flows the issues of life. (Proverbs 4:23) Our heart emotions determine attitude or adoration. Reading a psalm of thanksgiving can be a helpful start toward adoration. Connecting with God on a daily basis helps in adoration. Finding the right path and pace can be helpful too!
Truth
Truth over temptation. Everyday Satan is at work trying to fill our minds with lies. It is only through being daily in the Word and knowing God’s truth that I can arm myself against the attacks of Satan’s lies. God’s armor provides an offensive strategy with the Sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God to fight my temptations. (Ephesians 6:17) Taking inventory on my thought patterns and how much of God’s truth I am letting enter my mind is a vital part of healthy spiritual check-ups. Getting to know and understand His Truth sets me free from all those unhealthy temptations and lies of the enemy. I want to make a point, in this busy season, to have a healthy intake of His Truth, meditating on it, letting it fill my heart and home.
Good FAT
Faith. Adoration. Truth.
Where do I need to replace my bad F.A.T. with good F.A.T.?
As we journey into the new year, may we all find strength, comfort and encouragement in Him. If you are needing some life coaching, please feel free to email me.