Posts by Allan Lacoste

Led By Christ

Lifestyle
Life Led by Christ

Living a life led by Christ is a profound journey that many of us strive to undertake. As I reflect on the brevity and delicacy of human life, I find solace in the wisdom of the Bible. In the book of James, I am reminded that life is like a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. This reminder evokes a sense of urgency within me to live a life that mirrors the teachings of Christ.

When I ponder upon the fragility of life, I am drawn to the verses in Psalms that liken our days to grass that flourishes in the morning but by evening withers and fades. These words serve as a poignant reminder that our time on this earth is fleeting, urging me to embrace a life filled with purpose and meaning.

The book of Proverbs guides me to seek an honorable life, one that is rooted in integrity, kindness, and humility. It teaches me to walk in the path of righteousness, to show compassion, and to uphold honesty in all my dealings. Through these verses, I am encouraged to lead a life that reflects the virtues upheld by Christ during his time on earth.

As I navigate through the complexities of existence, I am reminded by the apostle Paul in his letter to the Galatians to live a life guided by the spirit, to embody love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These virtues, I believe, are the essence of a life led by Christ—a life that is centered on love and compassion for others.

In the gospel of Matthew, Jesus implores us to seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness. This serves as a guiding principle, reminding me to prioritize spiritual growth and to align my actions with the teachings of Christ.

Grateful for the gift of waking each day.

Nature
Gift of a New Day

Blessed, I am, with this gift of a new day,
For some, this morning light they did not meet,
But I stand here, under the sun’s first warming ray,
Grateful, for the rhythm of my heart, its steady beat.

Each sunrise, a promise, each breeze, a gentle caress,
In Southern California, life’s beauty is always on display,
I am a humble guest in nature’s grandness,
Grateful for the gift of waking each day.

Walking into a Room with Divine Purpose

Lifestyle Work
Divine Purpose in Every Encounter

As I step into the room, a profound thought resonates within me: “Walk into a room as if God sent you.” This powerful inspiration reminds me of the significance of every encounter and the potential impact I can make. With faith as my guide, I embark on a journey to explore the transformative power of this mindset, drawing upon real-life business examples and referencing Christian Bible verses to illuminate its depth.

In the world of business, we often find ourselves entering rooms filled with unfamiliar faces, uncertain expectations, and formidable challenges. The notion of walking into these spaces as if God sent us holds profound meaning. It encourages us to embody confidence, humility, and a genuine desire to serve others.

One notable example is the remarkable story of Truett Cathy, the founder of Chick-fil-A. His unwavering commitment to his faith and the values of his company is legendary. Truett approached every interaction as an opportunity to demonstrate kindness, respect, and generosity. These qualities, rooted in his Christian beliefs, became the foundation of Chick-fil-A’s renowned customer service and positive corporate culture. By walking into each room as if God sent him, Truett Cathy transformed countless lives and left an indelible mark on the business world.

Reflecting on the Bible, we find numerous instances where individuals were called to enter rooms with divine purpose. Joseph, for instance, was summoned to interpret Pharaoh’s dreams and ultimately became a powerful force in Egypt. His unwavering faith in God’s guidance enabled him to navigate the challenges he faced and bring about positive change. Similarly, Esther, through her courage and faith, stepped into the presence of King Xerxes to save her people. In both cases, these individuals embraced their roles with humble confidence, knowing that God had placed them in those rooms for a specific purpose.

Applying this mindset to our own lives, we can find inspiration to approach boardrooms, networking events, and even everyday encounters with a renewed sense of purpose. By recognizing that every room we enter is an opportunity to make a difference, we can transcend mere transactions and foster genuine connections. Our actions can reflect the values we hold dear and positively influence those around us.

Walking into a room as if God sent us means embodying virtues such as empathy, integrity, and compassion. It means being fully present, actively listening, and seeking to understand the needs of others. It means using our talents and abilities to serve and uplift, rather than solely pursuing personal gain.

Amen 🙏🏻

Warm Regards,
Allan Lacoste

What Archetype are You?

Lifestyle Nature
Archetypes of Existence

In this world, amidst the ebb and flow of life’s currents, I find solace in reflecting upon a timeless truth. As I ponder the intricacies of human nature, I am reminded of a profound passage from the sacred Scriptures.

It speaks of three distinct archetypes that shape the tapestry of existence: the sheep, the wolves, and the sheepdogs. Within the depths of my being, I embrace the understanding that each person embodies one of these roles.

Some souls, perhaps naively, choose to shield their hearts from the existence of malevolence. In their innocence, they believe evil to be an abstract concept, foreign to their own experience. They are the sheep, vulnerable and unaware.

Yet, lurking among us are those who thrive on the exploitation of weakness. They are the wolves, preying upon the unsuspecting, their actions driven by the darkness within. In their wake, they leave trails of fear and despair.

And then, in the face of this primal struggle, emerges a rare breed. They are the sheepdogs, bestowed with a gift that sets them apart—a relentless instinct to protect the flock. They possess a fervent aggression, an unwavering resolve, and an indomitable spirit that compels them to stand against the wolves.

These men, these guardians, draw strength from a deep reservoir within. They are the embodiment of courage, selflessness, and unwavering devotion. They willingly confront the darkness, placing themselves on the frontlines, ready to shield the vulnerable and confront the malevolent.

As I contemplate these profound truths, I am reminded of the significance of our choices. We are called upon to discern our place in this intricate dance of existence. Will we turn a blind eye to the realities of the world, content in our ignorance? Or will we rise above, embracing our role as protectors, as sheepdogs?

For in the grand tapestry of life, it is the sheepdogs who ensure that the flock survives and thrives. They are the embodiment of compassion and strength, tirelessly fighting for the light to prevail over darkness.

May we all, in our own unique ways, embrace the spirit of the sheepdog within us. May we cultivate the virtues of protection, courage, and love, so that when evil darkens our doorstep, we shall not cower in fear but rise to meet it head-on.

Amen,
Allan

The Transient Nature of Life and the Choice of Belief

Alabstraction Lifestyle
Transient Life and Belief

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. We often get caught up in the pursuit of material possessions and temporary pleasures, forgetting the fleeting nature of our existence on this earth. It is a marvel to witness how people live as if this life will last forever, oblivious to the fact that death is inevitable and that we will ultimately be judged for our actions.

In the Christian Bible, there is a profound message that serves as a reminder of the transience of life and the importance of leading an ethical existence. Each day, every single thing we do is recorded in the book of life – a testament to our character and deeds. This record will serve as the basis for our judgment when the time comes. It is a sobering thought that should encourage us to number our days and be mindful of our actions.

Central to this message is the belief in a higher power – God, who watches over us and will ultimately judge us. Many live as if they have an eternity to fulfill their desires and pursue worldly pleasures. However, the truth remains that our time is limited, and we are accountable for our choices. Living ethically, with a sense of moral responsibility, becomes paramount in light of this understanding.

Yet, amidst the looming judgment, there is hope. The Christian faith presents the concept of the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ, who offers salvation and redemption. He is the eternal God who walked among us, living a sinless life for 33 years. His ultimate sacrifice on the cross and subsequent resurrection provide us with a choice – a way to be free from the burden of judgment.

By believing in Jesus Christ, acknowledging his divinity, and accepting him as our savior, we can find solace and forgiveness. Through faith in him, our sins can be washed away, and we can find eternal peace in the presence of God. Jesus offers us the opportunity to be with him, to transcend the temporary nature of this earthly existence, and to embrace a higher purpose.

Amen.