Ram Swaminathan’s Post

Worth Knowing In a world that prioritises recognition, the actual value of an individual can be found in qualities like compassion, kindness, and encouragement. These make someone worth knowing, not the breadth of their fame but the depth of their character. Matthew 5:16 illustrates this beautifully: "In the same way, let your light shine before people, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." This passage encourages us to live so that our actions lead others to glorify God. It's about the influence that stems from genuine acts of kindness and moral integrity rather than from the superficial allure of celebrity. Being worth knowing means you enrich the lives of those around you, providing solace, inspiration, and uplift in a world that sorely needs it. Cultivating such traits ensures that your value to others transcends mere acquaintance, becoming a lasting and cherished presence in their lives. Quote Let the value of who you are be the thing that impresses people. Prayer Father, thank You that I can walk in the example of integrity that You are. Amen. Action Point If there was an area of life you wanted to improve, what would it be?

"Gratitude is derived from the Latin word gratia, which means grace, graciousness or gratefulness. Grace is defined as both simple elegance or refinement of movement, but it is also defined as courteous goodwill. As Christians, Grace is the basis for the Christian faith as the belief is that God offers us undeserved favor, freely give without having to be earned. Even if an individual is not Christian, the concept of graciousness which is defined as the quality of being kind, polite, and generous, can be displayed by all. Gratefulness is explained as the feeling of appreciation for the kindness displayed by someone else." Written by: Melissa Enoch, LCMHC, QS, LCAS, CCS, MAC, Executive Contributor

The Power of Words: Choose Yours Wisely Hey, everyone! Today, I want to dive into the immense power our words hold. They have the ability to uplift and inspire, but they can also wound and destroy. Let's be mindful of the impact our words have on others, whether it's our colleagues, superiors, or even those in service roles. I learned this lesson the hard way when I spoke without thinking. Ephesians 4:29 encapsulates this perfectly: "Let no foul or polluting language, nor evil word nor unwholesome or worthless talk [ever] come out of your mouth, but only such [speech] as is good and beneficial to the spiritual progress of others, as is fitting to the need and the occasion, that it may be a blessing and give grace (God's favor) to those who hear it." Let's strive to speak words that uplift and bless others, bringing grace and favor into their lives. #PowerOfWords #ChooseWisely #BeKind

Reflections: When Is Silence Best and Blessed? Naturally, when we are not opening our mouths, we are more inclined to open our ears – whether toward others or toward God. We are forced into self-reflection and obedience in our silence, which will only further our ability to listen to the Spirit. Silence is best in moments of anger. When we are angry, there’s a high likelihood that our words will not be produced by the Holy Spirit. James 1:19 instructs us: “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.” Similarly, “Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit” (1 Peter 3:10). Scripture tells us that silence can help us avoid sinning (Proverbs 10:19), gain respect (Proverbs 11:12), and is deemed wise and intelligent (Proverbs 17:28). In other words, you may be blessed by holding your tongue. Ultimately, refraining from speaking in certain situations means we are practicing self-control. Maintaining our composure can be challenging! We are to seek wisdom in controlling our tongue, for when we control it, we are ultimately walking by the Spirit. And we know that self-control, a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), is a discipline that is blessed.

Unlock true freedom by elevating your pursuit of God above all else. No matter what challenges may arise, prioritize His presence above your feelings, weekly struggles, or any external distractions. Experience the power of His name and embrace a life of gratitude. Embrace God, and embrace true freedom ❤️🙌🏽 Watch this full sermon on YouTube at https://lnkd.in/gmQv5biK

***THE IMPORTANCE OF IDENTITY*** “Stand for something or fall for anything”. Stop letting people make you feel guilty for staying true to you. Particularly when you know you're standing in TRUTH. If you’ll notice: they don't feel bad about standing in their flawed opinions. Nor do they care to seek the truth. Never allow someone to pressure you into doing evil, conversely: don't let them guilt you into doing “good”. Especially if your spirit is telling you something’s off. Really pay attention to the character of that person or persons. Discern their motives. What are the real consequences of their intended actions? People don't always do “good” for good reasons. And even if they believe themselves to be doing good. The “good” of man is able to be manipulated. The enemy is well aware of this. The worst dictators throughout history thought themselves to be doing “good” but we can easily see the heinous results of their insidious evil in hindsight. Don't always wait for hindsight. Seek the Lord Jesus. THINK CRITICALLY! The importance of having an unwavering identity rooted in TRUTH… Can't be overstated. It anchors you when a whirlwind of confusion and contrary information and beliefs battle for your mind, and thereby your life and soul. As well as all who follow your lead. Be it an attempt to galvanize you into lawlessness or legalism. Let Lord Jesus be that compass. With Love… -The Man After God’s Own Heart.✍️🏾

Wednesday, February 14, 2024 Dedication to truth Speak up, and speak the truth. Be honest, and give others the opportunity to be honest with you. Make no apologies for recognizing and acknowledging what is true, what is real. Your dedication to truth not only improves your own life, but is ultimately beneficial to everyone. It can be convenient in the short term to pretend that what’s obvious is not really there. But all that does is create more problems down the road. The sooner you get the truth out in the open, the better. The longer you wait to deal with a painful truth, the more painful it will be. Being truthful is an act of love, of confidence, of trust and understanding and kindness. Even when truth hurts, it helps. Speak and act and live on the side of what is real. As challenging as life certainly can be, it is always best when aligned with truth. — Ralph Marston

Wednesday, February 14, 2024 Dedication to truth Speak up, and speak the truth. Be honest, and give others the opportunity to be honest with you. Make no apologies for recognizing and acknowledging what is true, what is real. Your dedication to truth not only improves your own life, but is ultimately beneficial to everyone. It can be convenient in the short term to pretend that what’s obvious is not really there. But all that does is create more problems down the road. The sooner you get the truth out in the open, the better. The longer you wait to deal with a painful truth, the more painful it will be. Being truthful is an act of love, of confidence, of trust and understanding and kindness. Even when truth hurts, it helps. Speak and act and live on the side of what is real. As challenging as life certainly can be, it is always best when aligned with truth. — Ralph Marston