Sunday, December 9, 2012

His Way or the Highway

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. (Titus 2:11-15)
Many times we are presented with the opportunity to stand for our faith, yet we will crumble under political corecctness, friendships, family loyalties, or job security. Imagine being able to love the Lord so much that nothing matters more than to honor Him! I can recall a few athletes and politicians who have stood their ground and lost positions of prestige because they refused to waver. The Bible warns us against going with the crowd. Do we have to be reminded that not everyone who says they know Jesus and claim to be believers are what they say they are? Beware my friends of the traps of legalism, warped doctrines, and social religion. Our faith is not to be seen as an opportunity to climb up the social ladder or increase our network of friends and business associates. It is rather an alternative lifestyle of denial, sacrifice, and a conscientious and daily decision to live to honor our soon coming Savior.
Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. (Matthew 7:13-14)
We are all facing an audience with the Almighty God one day. Once we face Him, He will render a decision . . . Welcome home or away with you. (Matthew 7:23)Where will you and I stand?
His Way or the Highway? The decision must be made while we are living!

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