Devotional - Sept. 11, 2024
Scripture: Galatians 5: 19-21 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Sad to say, some things never change. The list above is as contemporary today as it was then, and yes, in the church as well as not. For some, attending church is something they do, and therein, maybe glean a tidbit or two for their daily life. Their understanding of salvation follows the same line of thought. It is something they did, or are thinking about doing. Once they claim Jesus, onward. It may come as a surprise, but I can't blame them for it. They learn this way of thinking at church. They got saved, and regardless of how they live, they enjoy God's grace thereafter. No one should need to be told that the list given above is inappropriate for a believer, and for that matter, an unbeliever, but... In fact, Paul clearly states, it's not just inappropriate, it is dismissive. And oddly enough, therein lies the hope. All of those things can be addressed in one's life. Change is possible. The fact that a person's behavior has declined to that extent is regrettable, but actions can be taken to permanently change their life for the better. Paul makes it clear, it's not just what God wants, the Spirit of God will be there to support them as they make the needed changes. The problem is, some folks like being involved in the things listed above. It makes them feel powerful and in control. Or even bad in a way they like, because at some level, they enjoy it. Be that as it may, it comes at a great loss. It's like eating out, the diner may be great, but here comes the bill. But, I do not want you to think in these terms. Rather, understand it via two options of living. I'll do more with this later, but look again at this list. In and of itself, is any of it good regardless of the spiritual ramifications? They all are destructive for both the doer and those around them. In other words, they destroy one's life. Their roots can be found deep within one's soul in fears and pain that were left to feaster rather than heal. Believe it or not, it breaks God's heart, but at some point, God has to hold us accountable for what we do. When that happens, God's desire is that it be a time of rejoicing (2 Peter 3:9). A time to celebrate the things we have overcome (Revelation 3:21). I realize some think, why work on it now? My response is, ...all things considered, why not? Recent studies have shown that folk in their "golden years" are achieving things, and are making progress in areas of their life both internally and socially, that they never thought possible before. When they were younger, their older generation did no such thing. But things have changed, the conditions we live in today are not the same and should not be experienced as such. Don't allow yourself to live a life of deception, thinking things are good (the list above) when they are not. God loves us enough to hold us accountable for not being what we were created to be (Matthew 5: 13-15).
Pray with me..., Holy God we confess we allow ourselves to do things that are not right or good. And, the thought of change is daunting. Revive us, O God, and remind us of Your Presence and support in our life each day. Hear us as we pray for our loved ones. We ask You blessing upon them and our church, in Jesus' name, Amen.
God's peace,
Pastor Brian
