People who are in prison for their faith in Christ are actually freer than those in the world who are afraid to share what they believe. Freedom starts when we admit that we are a slave to our sin. A truly free man is moved by knowing that Jesus paid for our sin. God's word gives us courage because it actually exposes our fears.

2 Corinthians 2 tells us to spread the fragrance of Jesus everywhere we go. 1st John 1 tells us to confess our sins and when we do that God forgives us of our sins and cleanses us of all unrighteousness. Living for Christ means repenting of our sins, embracing Jesus and spreading the fragrance of Christ to others.

The Bible is full of people like Joseph and Paul who endured difficulty, suffering and isolation. They could have been crushed but they were strengthened by God and their toughness came from a continual relationship with the Lord. We look to Jesus Christ as our perfect example of how to be tough despite the circumstances.

Steve Prefontaine was a world-class runner who beat other runners with his incredible toughness. As Christians we are being beat down by the world and taking blow after blow for the sake of Christ. We are called to die daily and to be conformed into the image of Christ. We should grow in our toughness and allow trials to shape us.

The apostle Paul had a thorn in his side and he knew that Jesus's power works best in his weakness. The Holy Spirit helps train and strengthen our spiritual muscles through the trials we face. We must count the cost of following Christ and allow Him to turn our friction into traction.

2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone the new is here!". Jesus Christ saved us from our sins and when we acknowledge that and put our faith in Jesus and are born again, we are no longer living for the things of this world. Believers cannot be double-minded and live in both kingdoms (earthly &
Heavenly eternal) We live for Jesus alone and His eternal kingdom.

Luke Chapter 2 describes how the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ, came into the world. As we celebrate Christmas, be reminded that we were dead in our sins but Jesus saved us and redeemed us and now we get to share that good news with others. There's no greater gift than receiving Jesus Christ into your life as Lord and Savior.

Another fundamental of the faith is the fact that we must be intentional about our relationships. We must be aware of the opportunities that the Lord will give us and we should anticipate being ready to show hospitality to strangers.