Nominal Christianity….

I think the greatest travesty in life is being nominal. I’m specifically referring to nominal Christians. We all fail at one time or another, but pretending to be something you’re not, only leads to your downfall. It sends a distorted and mixed message to those around, confusing them even more. Just think, a person who claims to love God, and yet hates his brother has done more to harm Christianity than help it. No wonder why Jesus had such a disdain for these people, who claim to know God, but only love themselves. If you are going to flat out reject God, do it, but don’t pretend to love Him if you don’t. It’s wrong and damaging to those who want to believe and follow. Our job as believers is to call those people out. Either “do your business, or get off the pot”, sitting there only leads to the the male version of asteroids. There is no place for nominal Christians.

15 Everything is pure to those whose hearts are pure. But nothing is pure to those who are corrupt and unbelieving, because their minds and consciences are corrupted. 16 Such people claim they know God, but they deny Him by the way they live. They are detestable and disobedient, worthless for doing anything good. Titus 1:15-16

Having Money Doesn’t Change….

Having money doesn’t change who you are, it reveals who you really are. You see, money is a test that reveals your true character. If you’re generous before you become wealthy, you’ll be generous after too, and vice versa with being stingy. If you’re a liar before, you’ll be a liar after. Wealth doesn’t change your character, it only magnifies it, letting you and others know more about yourself.

6 Better to be poor and honest than to be dishonest and rich. Proverbs 28:6

Pride In Its Truest Form….

Pride, in its truest form (without God), blinds and deceives its practitioner.

16 You have been deceived by the fear you inspire in others and by your own pride. You live in a rock fortress and control the mountain heights. But even if you make your nest among the peaks with the eagles, I will bring you crashing down,” says the Lord. Jeremiah 49:16

Humility is the Remedy for….

Never get too comfortable where you are, and forget God. Humility is the remedy for complacency.

4 You are proud of your fertile valleys, but they will soon be ruined. You trusted in your wealth, you rebellious daughter, and thought no one could ever harm you. Jeremiah 49:4

Never Quit Pursuing….

When you get to the end of your life, will you be able to say (as Paul did), “ I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I remain faithful”? Do you look forward to the crown you will receive from Jesus upon His return? Do you even think you’ll be given a crown? However you answered these questions should determine the trajectory of your life. The only guarantee we get in life is death and taxes. Oh, one more I forgot to mention, we will receive all that God has promised if we remain faithful. Keep the faith, and never quit pursuing your Maker.

6 As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. 8 And now the prize awaits me–the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of His return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to His appearing. 2 Timothy 4:6-8

Consistency….

Consistency, is an important character quality to possess. Being able to do something consistently is a gift. I would rank doing something consistently above doing something great occasionally. If you train yourself, you will eventually do it consistently great. Here in 2 Tim 4, we read about Paul urging Timothy to preach the Word. Be prepared to preach it in favorable times, and in times of rejection. People will always accept or reject truth, so we should have the mindset to consistently witness and speak truth to all, regardless if it’s popular or not. There will be people who flat out reject the truth, but still pretend to be “in” the church. There will be people who only listen to hear what they want to get out of the sermon. They will build their lives upon false teaching. They will reject truth and pursue their horoscopes and listen to their personal psychic. We must however, remember our job is to preach the Good News, to unify the church, and to put into practice the grace of God. We will never know what the outcome of our faithfulness will have on others, but we do know the effect it will have on us. The confidence, security, and peace that knowing you are in and doing the will of God cannot be measured. We know it, feel it, and watch as it transforms us into the likeness of Jesus. That’s reason enough to be prepared “in-season and out-of -season” to tell others if this Good News. His word will do what’s necessary (for it never returns void (Isaiah 55). It will encourage those that need encouraging, rebuke those who need to repent, and correct those believers who are walking down the wrong path. God knows when people need each of these, and He chooses us to answer those prayers. Be available, willing, and loyal, as a faithful servant, who carries out His wonderful and grace-filled agenda.

1 I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will someday judge the living and the dead when He appears to set up His Kingdom: 2 Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.3 For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will reject the truth and chase after myths. 2 Timothy 4:1-4

It Applies to Me First….

Every believer must know this. It’s paramount in our walk. The Bible is meant to be read, studied, and applied to our own lives first. It is God directly talking to me, first. As Jesus said, “first remove the log in your own eye, then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your neighbor’s eye”. Read it and see it as God directly talking to you. Apply it to your own life. Then and only then, reach out to others with its life changing power. That’s when it’s most effective, preparing and equipping us to do every good work.

14 But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. 15 You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 17 God uses it to prepare and equip His people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3:14-17

Keeps On Repeating….

It’s scary how much this sounds like America today. It couldn’t be more accurate. And to think it was written over 2,000 years ago. People don’t really change, do they? People’s behavior just works in cycles, kinda like Hollywood. Hollywood will have original ideas and make a movie, then after a new generation is established, being out of fresh ideas, here comes the remake. Better or worse, it’s a cycle that never dies, and so the sinful nature of man, unredeemed, keeps on repeating.

1 You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. 2 For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. 3 They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. 4 They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. 5 They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that! 2 Timothy 3:1-5

Caught In The Crossfire….

Here’s a thought: when people oppose our views as believers (it’s happening more and more everyday) it’s not the people we are fighting against, it’s what we believe that we are fighting for. If people oppose our beliefs, they are standing against what we believe, and thus, are caught in the crossfire. We will always oppose evil because we stand with God. Anyone who stands against God, has a fight on their hands; a fight they cannot win, because they oppose the truth.

4 To reject the law is to praise the wicked; to obey the law is to fight them. Proverbs 28:4

Who Are We Seeking Great Things For?

Here’s the question all believers must answer: are you seeking great things for yourself, or for God? Your answer will show the trajectory of your life. Our very life is the reward God gives for those who are faithful to Him.

1 The prophet Jeremiah gave a message to Baruch son of Neriah in the fourth year of the reign of Jehoiakim son of Josiah, after Baruch had written down everything Jeremiah had dictated to him. He said, 2 “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says to you, Baruch: 3 You have said, ‘I am overwhelmed with trouble! Haven’t I had enough pain already? And now the Lord has added more! I am worn out from sighing and can find no rest.’4 “Baruch, this is what the Lord says: ‘I will destroy this nation that I built. I will uproot what I planted. 5 Are you seeking great things for yourself? Don’t do it! I will bring great disaster upon all these people; but I will give you your life as a reward wherever you go. I, the Lord, have spoken!’ ” Jeremiah 45:1-5

Hell Insurance Doesn’t Negate Our Duty…..

Christians fail two ways in our attitudes toward others. First we get discouraged and want to quit when we are opposed. Secondly, we fail to display kindness and patience with those who oppose the Truth. We must make ourselves conscientious of our behavior, especially how we react to opposition and persecution. It’s not our job to make someone believe God. We just have to point them in the direction of truth. God will do the rest. But in our “pointing to God”, we must do it with patience, kindness, and respect. The way you reach a Heart hardened to God, is first through prayer; which tills the ground into receptiveness. Then by honing our approach, guided by the Spirit, we gently instruct with respect and patient tolerance, allowing the rebel to ask questions and honestly debate the issue. We must “step up to the plate” with our big-boy pants on when it comes to our responsibility to witness to the lost. We must stop taking the “easy” (selfish) way out. Just because we believe, and possess “Hell insurance”, doesn’t negate our duty. If God saves us, in proper response, we should be grateful and motivated to adopt His love and concern for those who have not yet been given His grace. We are to give to others what has been given to us. And we must have a patient, teachable, and gracious attitude doing it. If you don’t, you need to examine your own heart. You’ll probably find it too full of “self”.

23 Again I say, don’t get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights. 24 A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. 25 Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth. 26 Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants. 2 Timothy 2:23-26

Our Weaknesses….

Never forget this, when we fail, God doesn’t fail. Our weakness doesn’t change His faithfulness.

11 This is a trustworthy saying: If we die with Him,we will also live with Him.12 If we endure hardship,we will reign with Him.If we deny Him,He will deny us.13 If we are unfaithful,He remains faithful,for He cannot deny who He is. 2 Timothy 2:11-13

Fails in Comparison….

When you know the Truth (God), everything else fails in comparison. It’s supposed to. Authenticity trumps pseudo-anything every time. If you don’t see God above all things, you’re not experiencing God at all.

104 Your commandments give me understanding; no wonder I hate every false way of life. Psalms 119:104

We Will Do Whatever We Want….

Times change. Places change. But do people change? Yes, they change, but the sinfulness of man has always been the same. Unless a person repents, and places his trust in Jesus, his heart will remain in opposition to God. Here in Jeremiah chapter 44, we see the blatant rebellion of those left in Jerusalem after Judah was exiled in to Babylon. When a man allows idols to enter into his life, he adopts an attitude of, “We will do whatever we want”. Look where it has gotten America today. We are “legally” killing babies, having sex with whomever, wherever, and however. We’ve redefined marriage, and changed the definition of sex and gender. If you were to go back in time to any other point in American history, painting a picture of what America would be like today, it would be met with, “that’s insane, you’ve lost your marbles”. When a man makes up his mind to disregard God, having a mindset of “don’t tell me what to do”, common sense, rational thinking, and truth are no longer part of his daily routine. Feelings dictate his actions, and emotions replace truth. If you “feel it”, then it must be true. Blatant disregard for God, and His truth, blinds man from ever seeing the spiritual realm here on earth. When it goes unchecked, disaster is the only guarantee he’ll ever have. Don’t neglect your God-given conscience; your ability to know God. It’s what completes us, makes us whole. It’s the equalizer of all men. It’s the key to life.

“We will not listen to your messages from the Lord! 17 We will do whatever we want. Jeremiah 44:16-17a

26 “But listen to this message from the Lord, all you Judeans now living in Egypt: ‘I have sworn by My great name,’ says the Lord, ‘that My name will no longer be spoken by any of the Judeans in the land of Egypt. None of you may invoke My name or use this oath: “As surely as the Sovereign Lord lives.” 27 For I will watch over you to bring you disaster and not good. Everyone from Judah who is now living in Egypt will suffer war and famine until all of you are dead. 28 Only a small number will escape death and return to Judah from Egypt. Then all those who came to Egypt will find out whose words are true–Mine or theirs!29 “ ‘And this is the proof I give you,’ says the Lord, ‘that all I have threatened will happen to you and that I will punish you here.’ 30 This is what the Lord says: ‘I will turn Pharaoh Hophra, king of Egypt, over to his enemies who want to kill him, just as I turned King Zedekiah of Judah over to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon.’ ” Jeremiah 44:26-30

Fear of Death’s Reason….

When people reject God, when they turn their back on Him, they will never find rest or peace. Even though people are perceived to enjoy life when they are wealthy (materially speaking), it’s only temporary. And as they age that temporary gets shorter and shorter. Here’s a thought to contemplate on: when you live your entire life without God and approach death, what hope do you have? Death to the rebel is hopeless, peace less, and restless. That is what stares in the face of the godless. No amount of wealth can soothe this truth. That’s why people fear death so much, they know what’s waiting for them in the other side.

Come, let us worship and bow down.Let us kneel before the Lord our maker,7 for He is our God.We are the people He watches over,the flock under His care. If only you would listen to His voice today!8 The Lord says, “Don’t harden your hearts as Israel did at Meribah,as they did at Massah in the wilderness.9 For there your ancestors tested and tried My patience,even though they saw everything I did.10 For forty years I was angry with them, and I said,‘They are a people whose hearts turn away from Me.They refuse to do what I tell them.’11 So in My anger I took an oath:‘They will never enter My place of rest.’ ” Psalms 95:6-11

Guard Truth….

I know I can do a better job at this, guarding truth. But I will say Truth is very important to me, even when I have to face it when it hurts. We all must do a better job at guarding truth, especially when we live in a world that’s trying to change it’s meaning every day. Truth will never change itself, but it successfully changes those that embrace it. Never allow yourself to wander from it, cling tightly to truth, for it sets you free from all the deception in the world.

14 Through the power of the Holy Spirit who lives within us, carefully guard the precious truth that has been entrusted to you. 2 Timothy 1:14

Trust Determines Everything…

When it comes to believing God, following Him, it all boils down to this question: do you trust Him with your life? Your answer determines everything.

12 That is why I am suffering here in prison. But I am not ashamed of it, for I know the One in whom I trust, and I am sure that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until the day of His return. 2 Timothy 1:12

Moral Rot….

A perfect depiction of our government today in America. Moral rot causes dissension. Why? Because the standard in which morality is based has been removed. A building, statue, or any large structure will not stand (for long) without a stable, solid base. Once you remove God from the mainstream: from businesses, schools, homes, families, and individuals, how can a heart make moral decisions without its Source? It can’t. God is the electricity that makes morality run. Unplug Him from society, and society stops working. Looking for another source (alternative energy source) doesn’t work, because God is the only source of life. Rot happens when life leaves its body. Immoral behavior stems from being spiritually dead. There’s only One Way to be brought back to life, it’s found in the resurrected Christ Jesus. People need to stop putting their faith in candidates running for office. The government will never save us, but putting people who share biblical values certainly can help. Get out and vote. Regardless of your political affiliation, vote morality and let God work with those closely aligned with His heart.

2 When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily. But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability. Proverbs 28:2

He’s Got Your Back….

God is in control, He’s got your back. His word and ways work just as much today as it did long ago. His word is eternal. It never loses power, or loses relevance. It always gives life, and doesn’t have limits. Why don’t we see this? If we did, it would always bring us comfort, knowing we have access to the King of Kings, and Maker of all things.

89 Your eternal word, O Lord,stands firm in heaven.90 Your faithfulness extends to every generation,as enduring as the earth You created.91 Your regulations remain true to this day,for everything serves Your plans.92 If Your instructions hadn’t sustained me with joy,I would have died in my misery.93 I will never forget Your commandments,for by them You give me life.94 I am Yours; rescue me!For I have worked hard at obeying Your commandments.95 Though the wicked hide along the way to kill me,I will quietly keep my mind on Your laws.96 Even perfection has its limits,but Your commands have no limit. Psalms 119:89c-96

We are All Fickle….

People are fickle. You’re either honest with yourself, willing to accept truth no matter the cost, or you’re not. The believer trusts God with his life. He trusts that God has our best in mind. Pretenders, people who want to look good in front of others, are selfish driven people. Their agenda is self-preservation at all costs. Here in Jeremiah chapters 42-43, we read how the remnant of Israel, left by King Nebuchadnezzar, asked Jeremiah to pray for them. Since the guerrilla leaders had murdered the ruler appointed by the king, the ones that opposed this action wanted to flee to Egypt. They asked Jeremiah to pray for them, and promised to do whatever God told them to do. They never made the commitment in their hearts, it was just words. When God told them to stay, they didn’t listen, going to Egypt, where they met their fate. How many times do we ask God for an answer, then not be willing to put into action what His answer requires? We are all fickle. To change, to get away from this label, we have to make the decision to follow God, no matter what. Regardless of the request and answer, our faith must contain the belief that God has our best in store, so following Him is the best solution. Everything else doesn’t float. That’s what true faith requires. It all depends on the very Thing we put our faith in, not us. God is worthy of our trust. Be honest with yourself, trust Him, it’s the only guarantee we really have.

1 Then all the guerrilla leaders, including Johanan son of Kareah and Jezaniah son of Hoshaiah, and all the people, from the least to the greatest, approached 2 Jeremiah the prophet. They said, “Please pray to the Lord your God for us. As you can see, we are only a tiny remnant compared to what we were before. 3 Pray that the Lord your God will show us what to do and where to go.”4 “All right,” Jeremiah replied. “I will pray to the Lord your God, as you have asked, and I will tell you everything He says. I will hide nothing from you.”5 Then they said to Jeremiah, “May the Lord your God be a faithful witness against us if we refuse to obey whatever He tells us to do! 6 Whether we like it or not, we will obey the Lord our God to whom we are sending you with our plea. For if we obey Him, everything will turn out well for us.”7 Ten days later the Lord gave His reply to Jeremiah. 8 So he called for Johanan son of Kareah and the other guerrilla leaders, and for all the people, from the least to the greatest. 9 He said to them, “You sent me to the Lord, the God of Israel, with your request, and this is His reply: 10 ‘Stay here in this land. If you do, I will build you up and not tear you down; I will plant you and not uproot you. For I am sorry about all the punishment I have had to bring upon you. 11 Do not fear the king of Babylon anymore,’ says the Lord. ‘For I am with you and will save you and rescue you from his power. 12 I will be merciful to you by making him kind, so he will let you stay here in your land.’13 “But if you refuse to obey the Lord your God, and if you say, ‘We will not stay here; 14 instead, we will go to Egypt where we will be free from war, the call to arms, and hunger,’ 15 then hear the Lord’s message to the remnant of Judah. This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says: ‘If you are determined to go to Egypt and live there, 16 the very war and famine you fear will catch up to you, and you will die there. 17 That is the fate awaiting every one of you who insists on going to live in Egypt. Yes, you will die from war, famine, and disease. None of you will escape the disaster I will bring upon you there.’18 “This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says: ‘Just as My anger and fury have been poured out on the people of Jerusalem, so they will be poured out on you when you enter Egypt. You will be an object of damnation, horror, cursing, and mockery. And you will never see your homeland again.’19 “Listen, you remnant of Judah. The Lord has told you: ‘Do not go to Egypt!’ Don’t forget this warning I have given you today. 20 For you were not being honest when you sent me to pray to the Lord your God for you. You said, ‘Just tell us what the Lord our God says, and we will do it!’ 21 And today I have told you exactly what He said, but you will not obey the Lord your God any better now than you have in the past. 22 So you can be sure that you will die from war, famine, and disease in Egypt, where you insist on going.” Jeremiah 42:1-22

1 When Jeremiah had finished giving this message from the Lord their God to all the people, 2 Azariah son of Hoshaiah and Johanan son of Kareah and all the other proud men said to Jeremiah, “You lie! The Lord our God hasn’t forbidden us to go to Egypt! 3 Baruch son of Neriah has convinced you to say this, because he wants us to stay here and be killed by the Babylonians or be carried off into exile.”4 So Johanan and the other guerrilla leaders and all the people refused to obey the Lord’s command to stay in Judah. 5 Johanan and the other leaders took with them all the people who had returned from the nearby countries to which they had fled. 6 In the crowd were men, women, and children, the king’s daughters, and all those whom Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, had left with Gedaliah. The prophet Jeremiah and Baruch were also included. 7 The people refused to obey the voice of the Lord and went to Egypt, going as far as the city of Tahpanhes. Jeremiah 43:1-7

It Starts with Gold and Ends with Death….

What does every man have that no one admits? Something that causes little kids fits? Something that can cause lots of corruption? Something that never ceases disruption? It starts with gold and ends with death, Guess before you have no breath?

GREED. It’s the root of all evil. Selfishness is the opposite of love. It’s why God addresses this issue throughout the Bible. It traps many people, leaving them morally, spiritually, and relationally bankrupt. Nothing good comes out of greed. Stay far away from it. Desiring closeness to God is the safest and farthest place from greed. Make your home there. We are born with open hands and we die with open hands, live your life with opens hands so when God gives you gifts you are able to receive them. You can’t hold/receive with clinched fists. And it doesn’t hurt as bad when these gifts are taken out of open hands. We know that life is about appreciating things while you have them, and also when they are gone. Knowing the latter, helps us with the former.

5 These people always cause trouble. Their minds are corrupt, and they have turned their backs on the truth. To them, a show of godliness is just a way to become wealthy.6 Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. 7 After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. 8 So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content.9 But people who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows. 1 Timothy 6:5-10

17 Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. 18 Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. 19 By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life. 1 Timothy 6:17-19

Protecting Us From Evil…

When you honor God, He will honor you. A core truth proven throughout scripture. The honor He gives may not be prosperity, but it will always protect its recipient from evil. Here Jeremiah is one of the remaining few left in Jerusalem after Nebuchadnezzar conquered and destroyed it, just as God foretold. Jeremiah however, was sought out, and given whatever he requested by the enemy. God used a ruthless, violent, and evil empire to protect and care for a man that honored Him. Proof of God’s promise to honor those that honor Him (1 Samuel 2:30).

17 but I will rescue you from those you fear so much. 18 Because you trusted Me, I will give you your life as a reward. I will rescue you and keep you safe. I, the Lord, have spoken!’ ” Jeremiah 39:17-18

1 The Lord gave a message to Jeremiah after Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, had released him at Ramah. He had found Jeremiah bound in chains among all the other captives of Jerusalem and Judah who were being sent to exile in Babylon.2 The captain of the guard called for Jeremiah and said, “The Lord your God has brought this disaster on this land, 3 just as He said He would. For these people have sinned against the Lord and disobeyed Him. That is why it happened. 4 But I am going to take off your chains and let you go. If you want to come with me to Babylon, you are welcome. I will see that you are well cared for. But if you don’t want to come, you may stay here. The whole land is before you–go wherever you like. 5 If you decide to stay, then return to Gedaliah son of Ahikam and grandson of Shaphan. He has been appointed governor of Judah by the king of Babylon. Stay there with the people he rules. But it’s up to you; go wherever you like.”Then Nebuzaradan, the captain of the guard, gave Jeremiah some food and money and let him go. 6 So Jeremiah returned to Gedaliah son of Ahikam at Mizpah, and he lived in Judah with the few who were still left in the land. Jeremiah 40:1-6

Being Spiritually Dead, Pleasure, and Truth….

Maybe one of the reasons that radical rebels against God oppose Him, is because they live only for pleasure, and thus are spiritually dead. Being spiritually dead means it’s impossible to see or understand any truth. Being dead means you can’t respond. People who oppose God seek pleasure in all things. Anyone or thing that gets in their way is the enemy. Think about all the radical agendas being pushed in America? Are they all not about seeking self-pleasure? Eliminate the consequences of my behavior, by silencing the mouths of truth speakers, and the guilt and shame of their behavior seems to subside. Speak out about it, and you are opposed with radical, and quite often violent behavior. Here’s an example. Abortion. The consequences of immoral sexual behavior are: pregnancy, STDs, emotional trauma, violent behavior, guilt, shame, and on and on. Society has done its best to try to eliminate these consequences with abortion, plan B pill, contraceptives, “safe sex” agendas, and on and on. When someone addresses the issue about these practices being immoral, it is received with “you can’t tell me what I can and cannot do” response. These responses vary from arguing “it’s not a baby” to “its my body...”. Bottom line is the fact being spiritually dead blinds a person to the truth. They cannot see the behaviors they are pursuing are not only detrimental to themselves, but also also life-threatening to others as well. Pursuing pleasure and not God leads to a life of selfishness, which is the opposite of LOVE. How can someone expect to love and be loved when they are practicing the opposite of what they are pursuing. It’s impossible. It’s like walking in the desert in the heat of summer, and expecting to be cool and finding water plentiful to drink. This can be applied to all immoral behaviors. Being spiritually dead isn’t what we were created to be, yet so many people want the benefit of truth, but are not willing to give up the pleasure it demands in its pursuit.

5 Now a true widow, a woman who is truly alone in this world, has placed her hope in God. She prays night and day, asking God for his help. 6 But the widow who lives only for pleasure is spiritually dead even while she lives. 7 Give these instructions to the church so that no one will be open to criticism. 1 Timothy 5:5-7

The Sense to Follow….

God made us, but it’s not until He gives us the sense to follow His commands, that we are able to live the life He meant us to have. We don’t have because we don’t ask. Ask Him today to give you this “sense to follow Him”, then be prepared for the journey of a lifetime.

You made me; You created me.Now give me the sense to follow Your commands.74 May all who fear You find in me a cause for joy, for I have put my hope in Your word.75 I know, O Lord, that Your regulations are fair; You disciplined me because I needed it.76 Now let Your unfailing love comfort me, just as You promised me, Your servant.77 Surround me with Your tender mercies so I may live, for Your instructions are my delight. Psalms 119:73c-77

Our Behavior’s Influence…

Do you ever think that your behavior plays a role in the salvation of others? How much of a role? That depends on God, and the consistency or inconsistency of your behavior.

16 Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you. 1 Timothy 4:16

More Abused Than Beneficial….

I bet if social media was around in Paul’s day, he’d address it the same way he addressed Timothy in 1 Tim. 4. Don’t waste time arguing things with non-believers. Don’t waste time in hearsay or gossip. Social media does serve a purpose, but it’s probably more abused than beneficial today in America. Spend your time investing; investing in God’s word and putting it into practice, helping others in their times of need, then your conscience will flourish and help you become more alive.

7 Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives’ tales. Instead, train yourself to be godly. 1 Timothy 4:7

Poisoning Our Conscience…..

One of the saddest and common tragedies in life is when people know the truth, know what to do about it, but still do nothing. By neglecting our obligation to God, one thing is guaranteed: we are slowly poisoning our conscience to the point of death. Once dead, there’s no reviving it on our own. A dead conscience is the greatest, self-inflicted tragedy on planet earth. Are you neglecting yours?

Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons. 2 These people are hypocrites and liars, and their consciences are dead. 1 Timothy 4:1-2

For Our Good…

This section of Psalm 119 is packed with wisdom. If only we pursued this kind of mindset, life wouldn’t be so complicated. Freedom is always balanced with responsibility. Our responsibility is to God. We must never forget His instruction and discipline are for our good. When we adhere to this attitude, it’s easier to love, be patient, kind, .... We produce the fruit that the Bible talks about when our minds are aligned with God. It doesn’t make life perfect, just more rewarding, knowing we are fulfilling our purpose.

65 You have done many good things for me, Lord, just as You promised. 66 I believe in Your commands; now teach me good judgment and knowledge. 67 I used to wander off until You disciplined me; but now I closely follow Your word. 68 You are good and do only good; teach me Your decrees. 69 Arrogant people smear me with lies, but in truth I obey Your commandments with all my heart. 70 Their hearts are dull and stupid, but I delight in Your instructions. 71 My suffering was good for me, for it taught me to pay attention to Your decrees. 72 Your instructions are more valuable to me than millions in gold and silver. Psalms 119:65-72

Temporary Heat….

When you ignore God’s warnings, and not take heed, the consequences built up, and are much worse than the start. King Jehoiakim paid the price for refusing to take heed when the scroll was read to Him. Instead of listening and repenting, as he heard each section read, he meticulously took his knife and cut off each section and burned it in the fire that he was warming himself with. The only purpose God’s word served him, was temporary heat. Unfortunately, the “real heat” from God’s word, eventually came and ran him “out of the kitchen” to a dismal and degrading death. When we take God or His Word for granted, we either miss out on great and wonderful gifts He has for us, or we suffer a greater fate because of it. We can’t cut out parts of the truth we don’t like. It doesn’t work that way. Take heed, lest ye fall.

21 The king sent Jehudi to get the scroll. Jehudi brought it from Elishama’s room and read it to the king as all his officials stood by. 22 It was late autumn, and the king was in a winterized part of the palace, sitting in front of a fire to keep warm. 23 Each time Jehudi finished reading three or four columns, the king took a knife and cut off that section of the scroll. He then threw it into the fire, section by section, until the whole scroll was burned up. 24 Neither the king nor his attendants showed any signs of fear or repentance at what they heard. 25 Even when Elnathan, Delaiah, and Gemariah begged the king not to burn the scroll, he wouldn’t listen.26 Then the king commanded his son Jerahmeel, Seraiah son of Azriel, and Shelemiah son of Abdeel to arrest Baruch and Jeremiah. But the Lord had hidden them. Jeremiah Rewrites the Scroll 27 After the king had burned the scroll on which Baruch had written Jeremiah’s words, the Lord gave Jeremiah another message. He said, 28 “Get another scroll, and write everything again just as you did on the scroll King Jehoiakim burned. 29 Then say to the king, ‘This is what the Lord says: You burned the scroll because it said the king of Babylon would destroy this land and empty it of people and animals. 30 Now this is what the Lord says about King Jehoiakim of Judah: He will have no heirs to sit on the throne of David. His dead body will be thrown out to lie unburied–exposed to the heat of the day and the frost of the night. 31 I will punish him and his family and his attendants for their sins. I will pour out on them and on all the people of Jerusalem and Judah all the disasters I promised, for they would not listen to My warnings.’ ”32 So Jeremiah took another scroll and dictated again to his secretary, Baruch. He wrote everything that had been on the scroll King Jehoiakim had burned in the fire. Only this time he added much more! Jeremiah 36:21-32

Give Him My Best….

Serving God is a gift, a privilege. It’s easy to lose sight of this in our busy, daily lives. We get caught up in the sometimes minuscule details. We worry about the most insignificant things. We allow ourselves distractions not worthy of our full attention. Here in Jeremiah chapter 35 we read about the Recabites. These descendants never tasted wine, they never built houses, or owned farms. They were faithful to their ancestor Jehonadab. Their faithfulness to their ancestors was rewarded by God. Rewarded with what? Having descendants who serve God. What a privilege it is to serve our Maker, to think He chooses us for that very purpose. The God of our universe, chooses me. My only response is to be grateful and give Him my best.

12 Then the Lord gave this message to Jeremiah: 13 “This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says: Go and say to the people in Judah and Jerusalem, ‘Come and learn a lesson about how to obey Me. 14 The Recabites do not drink wine to this day because their ancestor Jehonadab told them not to. But I have spoken to you again and again, and you refuse to obey Me. 15 Time after time I sent you prophets, who told you, “Turn from your wicked ways, and start doing things right. Stop worshiping other gods so that you might live in peace here in the land I have given to you and your ancestors.” But you would not listen to Me or obey Me. 16 The descendants of Jehonadab son of Recab have obeyed their ancestor completely, but you have refused to listen to Me.’17 “Therefore, this is what the Lord God of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says: ‘Because you refuse to listen or answer when I call, I will send upon Judah and Jerusalem all the disasters I have threatened.’ ”18 Then Jeremiah turned to the Recabites and said, “This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says: ‘You have obeyed your ancestor Jehonadab in every respect, following all his instructions.’ 19 Therefore, this is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the God of Israel, says: ‘Jehonadab son of Recab will always have descendants who serve Me.’ ” Jeremiah 35:12-19

The Praise Test….

I will bet you a dollar the percentage of passing the “praise test” is very, very low. How do I know? It’s simple. Praise feeds our ego, and it fattens up our pride. Those are the main two reasons people stay away from God. Because those two reasons keep us from God. If we don’t have a humble heart because we pursue God, Who humbles us, we will fail this test every time. The only way you can ever pass this test is with the help of God, empowering us with humility. Not many people possess this quality today, because humility is not seen as a virtue like the Bible tells us it is. Why would people pursue something that’s not popular with others, that won’t win friends? It’s seen as being weak. Being a believer opens our eyes to the truth of God, but the world still cannot see. Praise Him for the gift of spiritual 20/20 vision. How we respond to praise matters. It reveals the condition of our heart, and makes an impact on the effectiveness of our witness.

Fire tests the purity of silver and gold, but a person is tested by being praised. Proverbs 27:21