Fear God - Enjoy Heaven

 

Old man comes into a restaurant, sits at his usual table, and orders the usual - matzoh ball soup. The waiter sets it down in front of him and stands back to watch him enjoy it. But the man just sits there. "Is there something wrong?" the waiter asks. "I can't eat this soup," the man replies. "Is it too hot?" the waiter asks. "No." "Too cold?" - "No." "Too salty?" - "No." The waiter calls for the maître d', and for the chef, and each goes through the same routine: "Too hot? - Too cold?" "No, no, no." Finally, the chief, at his wits end, says, "Sir, I will taste the soup myself. Where is the spoon?" Says the old man: “A-ha!"

[Hebrews 3:4] “For every house is built by someone, but He who built all things is God.” Both evidence and reason point convincingly to faith in God. The charge of “blind faith,” often leveled against the conviction of believers, better describes the plight of those who see a world without God. A house suggests a builder. To imagine a house building itself, or accidentally exploding into existence, is to contemplate the absurd. Such a nonsensical notion, absent of any empirical, philosophical, or historical foundation, is “blind faith” to the extreme. But there is a faith equally ridiculous and even more blind. The imagination that everything in our universe – mass and matter, living tissue and intelligent beings – was brought into existence without a Designer, without a Maker, has become a matter of faith for many pseudo-scientists of our day. And these same scientists propagate and defend their faith with nothing short of religious fervor tending toward wild fanaticism. With nothing to work with other than conjecture and theory, such faith, no matter how firmly held, is nothing if not blind. Simply put, which requires a blinder faith – the thought of everything coming into existence from nothing, naturally, without God? Or the realization that all things must come from some source, from some beginning? (In this case from the God of heaven). The Bible, as always, has it right: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis1:1). “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made; and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth . . . For He spoke, and it was done, He commanded, and it stood fast.” (Psalms 33:6-9). “The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmaments shows His handiwork.” (Psalms 19:1). And perhaps the truism of truisms is this inspired nugget from Palms 53:1; “The fool has said in his heart, there is no God.” (Dalton Key, Bulletin Digest March 2020)

There are many people who look on those who are religious as naïve, that is, people with good intentions, but devoted people deluded by ideas not based in reality. Though this is hardly the case, it matters not; some just choose to think this because they desire to live in accordance with what the world presents. Unfortunately, many Christians give them reason to think this because they themselves do not align their lives with the confession of Christ they express. There is no greater need in our time, than the need to fear God. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; But fools despise wisdom and instruction” (Proverbs 1:7). The fear of the Lord is that understanding of God's greatness and power, and man's accountability toward Him. An “unknown God” cannot be trusted, served, nor worshipped. A scriptural and saving knowledge of God is the greatest need of every person, in every generation. Belief in God is the foundation principle of the Christian faith. The writer of the book of Hebrews said, "…without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him" (Hebrews 11:6). One cannot enjoy good soup without a spoon. One must fear and obey God to enjoy heaven for eternity.

You Shall Not Murder

 

You shall not kill. The Hebrew word for “kill” is a word modern translations render “murder.” The Hebrew word can be used in contexts where one is killed intentionally or unintentionally. In Matthew 5:21-26, Jesus develops what we are to understand. The command “You shall not murder” is a moral failing that begins in the heart before it shows itself in criminal activity.

Consider some numbing information: some in Western society are supportive of the moral failing associated with euthanasia, otherwise known “mercy” killings. If the outcry surrounding abortion is any indication, the current outcry surrounding “mercy” should cause one to shutter with fear. It’s a shame that so many people now recognize such killings as part of our lives. In Holland, euthanasia has been in practice for decades. In December 1998 the British Medical Journal reported that in 1995 there were 900 cases of non-voluntary euthanasia victims. The Dred Scott case of the Supreme Court in 1857 said that slaves were not legal persons. The Supreme Court, in 1973, said in effect that children in the womb are not either. It was two lawyers who defended Norma McCorvey’s right to kill her child. These lawyers, it is said, had no interest in Norma as a person. They just wanted to challenge the law prohibiting killing the innocent in all 50 states. They got their wish when in 1973 the Supreme Court ruled 7-2 in favor of Satan’s work. Some argue, in their lack of moral wisdom, the child in the womb is not viable; it may be life, but not viable life. This is man’s attempt to justify an action the Lord will never accept (Amos 1:13).

The shame of it all is associated with people who have become hardened to the moral failings of society. We all have our own political interests. They are varied. We ought not to think, however, our varied political interests are an acceptable approach to the Lord as we vote on one or another political philosophy, relegating the Lord’s holiness and virtue, out of our public sector under the banner of “separation of church and state.” When a person votes into office a man or woman who compromises the Lord’s way, this is a contribution to the slaughter of the innocent, (young and old). The attorneys who defended the killing of the innocent to the Supreme Court will give an account to the Lord, as also those who ruled against moral virtue back in 1857. Why do we think it will be any different with our individual votes?

[Matthew 5:21-22] Now, the argument against capital punishment does not fall under the Lord’s prohibition, as can be seen throughout the Scriptures. Capital cases are not related to the innocent, but to the guilty. Old Testament Law capital cases are seen for the following crimes/sins: striking or cursing a parent; blasphemy; sabbath breaking; witchcraft and false pre-tensions to prophecy; adultery; unchastity (of various sorts); rape; incest; abducting people for slavery; idolatry; false witnessing; murder. The principle of these commands, in a New Testament context, is our obligation to the Lord as far greater than any obligation given to man, including the political arena as well. It is a moral outrage that any Christian would support what is inherently evil! We will answer for it. One violates the Scripture because of where the heart is. And Jesus takes the whole concept one step further. “You have heard it said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder, and whoever murders will be in danger of the judgment.’ But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. And whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be in danger of hell fire.” One’s own soul is in jeopardy when plotting the demise of another - imagined or real. Council with God, for the days are running out – Jesus is coming soon.

Playing With Fire

 

The end of winter in South Texas is always a dangerous time when it comes to brush fires. Dry, dead vegetation is the perfect fuel and wind associated with the change of the season can push a brush fire across many acres of land in short order. Most of these fires get started through the negligence of people and the resulting destruction of private property can prove to be extensive at times. Fire is a great tool but it’s not something to play with. The end result of such careless abuse can lead to forest fires, burned down homes and even death. Millions of dollars are spent annually educating children through school seminars and promoting safety over all sorts of media and the internet as to the dangers of playing with fire in the hope of curtailing such devastating destruction. There are rules that must be followed to keep fire under control. Most people understand the potential dangers of fire when used carelessly and respect it, using it only as authorized.

There is a different kind of fire people are always playing with that can result in the devastation of lives both physically and mentally. As a youngster I can remember hearing warnings from adults, “You’re playing with fire and someone’s going to get hurt!” That warning could cover a number of crazy things teens and young adults get tangled up in as they grow and discover the thrills of life. Thankfully, most of us survived our stupidity to enjoy a long life because we heeded the warnings of experienced elders. Many historians are presently warning some crazy leaders of this world to stop playing with fire in their conquests and manipulation of societies taking away their God given freedoms of family and ownership of worldly possessions. The push-back may become greater than this world has ever seen resulting in mutual destruction netting a zero victory all around. I pray not.

[Hebrews 12:25-29] I find it utterly amazing that the majority of the world understands the danger of playing with fire, but they fail to see the dangers of playing with God; the disrespectful and irreverent attitudes man has toward God and His Word. Doing that which is unauthorized by God is no different than playing with fire. Eventually, you’re going to get burnt – literally! The story of Nadab and Abihu illustrates this very fact. Aaron’s sons Nadab and Abihu took their sensers, put fire in them and added incense; and they offered unauthorized fire before the Lord, contrary to his command. So, fire came down from the presence of the Lord and consumed them, and they died before the Lord. Moses said to Aaron, ‘This is what the Lord spoke of when He said, “Among those who approach me I will be proved holy; in the sight of all people, I will be honored.”’ Aaron remained silent (Leviticus 10:1-3 NIV). Specific instruction had been given by God in regard to one’s worship to Him (Leviticus 8:1-9:24). However, Nadab and Abihu, like many in the religious world today, substituted God’s will with their own. Aaron’s sons added the incense to the sensers fire making it unauthorized (Leviticus 16:11-13). The fire that was used in their worship was unauthorized and it ultimately led to their demise. There are many in the religious world today that see nothing wrong with using mechanical instruments, choirs, drama teams, etc. in their worship to God. But such acts are not authorized by God, and like the strange fire offered up by Nadab and Abihu, one who plays with fire will eventually get burnt (Revelation 22:18-19). God, through His Word, has given us specific instructions in all matters pertaining to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:2-4): thus, it behooves each of us to do that which he has specifically authorized.

Because there are those who dare play with fire many are going to get burnt. Because there are those who dare play with God - they will suffer eternally. Obey God and live.

The Difference Between Good and Better

 

Life seems to be getting tougher every day. The cost of living is increasing and with the purchasing power of the average family weakening even more is being demanded of the same income. Where will we be at the end of 2022 is anyone’s guess at this point. Staying mentally and physically strong throughout this time of transition in our societies is of utmost important so we don’t become a drain on one another. I came across a classic quip of encouragement the other day and thought I would share it with y’all.

Ever wonder about people who say they are giving more than 100%? What does it mean to give more than 100%? Here’s a little mathematical formula that might shed some light on that thought. If A thru Z is represented by 1 thru 26 (A=1; B=2; and so on), then: H-A-R-D-W-O-R-K (8+1+18+4+23+15+18+11) =98% and K-N-O-W-L-E-D-G-E (11+14+15+23+12+5+4+7+5) =96%. But A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E (1+20+20+9+20+21+4+5) =100%. Now, look how far the L-O-V-E-O-F-G-O-D will take you: (12+15+22+5+15+6 +7+15+4) =101%. Therefore, one can conclude that while hard work and knowledge will get you close to giving 100% and a good attitude will get you there, it is the love of God that will put you over the top. Combined, one will have a great personal and work ethic.

[Mark 10:17-22] In this passage we read of a man who came to Jesus wanting eternal life. We have come to call him the Rich Young Ruler. He was a man who kept the law and appears to be morally excellent. Because we are familiar with the story, it is easy for us to judge him and his motives. However, we must remember that Mark records for us, “Jesus loved him” indicating that our Lord saw something in him that was spiritually commendable. It is only later that we find him walking away from Jesus unable to separate himself from his riches. This man seems to be spiritually discerning. He is keeping the law to the best of his ability and desires to know more about eternal life. His question, “…what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” shows a desire to reach further in his quest for spiritual excellence. In other words, he is not satisfied to be good …he wants to be better. We may be appalled at his choices later on, but his mind and heart appear to be focused on doing better. Obviously, the decision involved more than he was prepared to accept.

As Christians, we may be satisfied to be good. There are two things wrong with that kind of thinking. First, we are likely using our own standard of what is good. Second, God is never satisfied with us being in a spiritually settled condition. We must be growing (John 15:1-8; 2 Peter 3:17-18). Paul preached, emphasized, and prayed for the growth of the first century Christians. He was never satisfied for them to be good or do well. He wanted them to be better. The same is true for the church. We should never be satisfied to be good. We need to strive for better. If our attendance is good, we should work to make it better. If the contribution is good, we should work to make it better. Whatever we do, it is one thing to be good, another to be better, all the while asking ourselves what God expects of us. But we should never think we are in competition with other churches, and we should never be looking for bragging rights. Like the Rich Young Ruler, we should be asking what more we can do. Unlike him, we must resolve to do what God wants of us. Remember the Sermon on the Mount was not just about keeping the law. It was about the spiritually excellent expectations of God through the law. Let us go the second mile with God.

The signs of the time are indicating we may have to give up a lot of our creature comforts in the near future. Don’t let one of them be Jesus and eternal comfort with God. Get prepared today to step forward; to give 101% to God and country, family, and friends.