How To ...

 

    Jesus was a good teacher.  He wanted to give everyone the opportunity to understand what he was saying.  That is why he had a how to lessons.  It was a basic way of living life.

    We are not to act righteous like spiritual actors, but to do good works.  It takes away from the purpose and blessing if you seek recognition.  It will steal your long term rewards.  Less spot light now will pay off in the long run.  It is best not to think about the good deeds you do, just do them and move on. 

    This concept goes toward prayer too.  When you pray out loud don't make it a sermon or sound good or it will make you a hypocrite.  Instead pray like you do when it is just you and God.  It is about the relationship, not sounding good or preachy.  It doesn't matter if the prayer is public or alone as long as it honors God.  That is a successful prayer.

    When you pray use the Lord's prayer as an example of a petition prayer that honors God.  Prayer should be to acknowledge who God is, then seeking His presence.  Next you ask for His will to be done, provisions, forgiveness, and protection from falling to temptation (Satan's influence).  Forgiveness is vital to repentance.  We must learn to forgive to be able to be forgiven.  

    Fasting should go with prayer at certain times.  Again, it should not be advertised.  You don't need to look forlorn and run down.  It is a special time between you and God where change occurs.  There is no room for the world in this moment: meaningless distractions.  It is a time to focus on heavenly things.  It is a purification process.  You can either serve God or the world, not both.  

    Do not stress over your life.  God is taking care of you.  He gave you life, so He is invested in it.  Don't invest into the world, but into your body (God's creation), relationship with God, and Heaven.  How you approach life displays your reliance on God.  The more corrupted you become, the less you trust God.  

    Don't worry about the future because each day has enough problems and stressors to take your attention.  Focusing on things that you can't change is just a joy stealer and life living thief.  Seek God first and your anxiety or worry will disappear.  Nothing will pour on anxiety like disbelief.

Matthew 6