Inspiration

Has anyone ever "inspired" you to do something?

When we think of being inspired, we think of being encouraged or influenced, in some way. We may have a picture of younger, slimmer days that "inspire" us to lose weight. Or we may want to step out and do something we've never tried before, but need a word of encouragement or inspiration to move forward. We all look for inspiration in one way or another, when we should look at the only inspiration we need - God and His Word.

Webster defines "inspiration" as, "the act or power of moving the intellect or emotion", and "inspire" as, "to influence, move, or guide by divine or supernatural inspiration". In biblical terms "inspired" means "breathed out by God".

By reading God's Word, He is literally breathing onto us, touching our emotions and intellect. Our verse today 2 Timothy 3:16 says, "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:" (KJV) In the Holman Christian Standard Bible, it reads, "All scripture is INSPIRED by God......" This is a product of God's Spirit working thru men.

Job 33:4 reads "The spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the almighty hath given me life."

We can be an inspiration to others by a simple smile, hello, or even a compliment. As Christians, we should look for ways to guide or move (inspire) others; as if God Himself were "breathing out" to them. We may, by God's power, breath life back into someone having a bad day.

Take time this week to notice if anyone around you needs a word of encouragement. Sometimes our (good) attitude may be just the inspiration someone needs, to help them make it thru.

Allow God to influence, move, and guide you today. Get in His Word - this is His direction for you and me. We will have the spirit within us to help us help others, as we allow God to "breath out" to us. As we encourage others, God always seems to encourage us.

Jesus loves you...Be inspired!