Michael,
As we grow and look ahead in our lives, we search many archives for advice on how to be successful in life, love, and happiness. We seek the words and wisdom of our family, friends, and professors who speak, we hope, with our best interests in mind and at heart. Their counsel, although valuable, gives no warrant. No person can direct you to the course of success. So instead, I will leave you with the word of the One who can.
6 In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you.7 If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well.8 If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.
9 Don't just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good.10 Love each other with genuine affection,* and take delight in honoring each other.11 Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically.*12 Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.13 When God's people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.
14 Bless those who persecute you. Don't curse them; pray that God will bless them.15 Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep.16 Live in harmony with each other. Don't be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don't think you know it all!
17 Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable.18 Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.
19 Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say,
"I will take revenge;
I will pay them back,"*
says the LORD.
20 Instead,
"If your enemies are hungry, feed them.
If they are thirsty, give them something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap
burning coals of shame on their heads."*
21 Don't let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.
Romans 12:6-21
48 … When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required.
Luke 12:48
Remember how much you have been given in this life, and remember these are gifts to be used wholly, purposefully and joyfully. Your talents are limitless, so give them no limits. Don’t just reach, but go, because you can. But wherever you go, go with the guidance of the One who knows, adores, and created your heart and soul. He will take you beyond any expectation of success and joy you have imagined.
Never turn away from love, and never turn away love from anyone.
Your partner in crime always,
Vicki
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