Day 79: Male and Female He Created Them (March 20)

I have been very aware of the spirit of confusion that seems to be running rampant across the earth.  It has reminded me just how important it is to be steeped in the Word of God and how very important it is to have a real relationship with Jesus, so we can continue to hold fast to the truth.  Now, more than ever, we need Holy Spirit to guide and direct us.

Though many are increasingly confused about who we are and whether gender is “fluid”….whatever that means, I have taken hold of the firm foundation that was set before the beginning of time. This “debate” over gender has really pinpointed the true issue, at least as far as I am concerned….

So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.  Genesis 1:27   (this verse is the beginning and the end of my argument over gender…now lets move on)

I believe a large portion of the issue is, followers of Jesus are not spending enough time reading the Truth (Bible) and listening to Truth (Holy Spirit).  We’ve become distracted.  I’m fairly confident in saying that we are all guilty of this on some level and at some point in time.

Love has become distorted.  Love does not mean we have to compromise on everything.  As a parent I have learned that love oftentimes means holding steadfast to the boundaries in our family.  It doesn’t always feel loving, but that doesn’t change the fact that it IS love.  I also cannot indulge my kid’s wrong feelings, no matter how convinced they are that they are true.

What do I mean?  Well, if my child comes to me and says, “I don’t feel loved.”  Then I immediately assess my actions and see if I need to step up in any area, but I ALSO have my child reflect and see if something else is going on in their heart to lead to this feeling.  I do not take full responsibility for it because the fact remains, I DO love my kids.  I love them every day and all the time.  I also do not change the entire way our household is run because of one lie statement.  Feelings come and feelings go, my love for my kids remains constant.  This is obviously strictly an example, but I hope it mirrors some of the greater issue at play in the world.

What does this have to do with devotionals?

Well, I want to challenge you.  Are you spending time steeping in the Word of God (Bible), and are you spending time just listening to the Voice of Truth (Holy Spirit)?  Any of us are in danger of being fooled by the prince of lies, especially if we aren’t spending intentional time knowing the Truth.

I’ve always been told that those who work to identify counterfeit money only study the true bills.  They don’t bother studying the lie, no they focus on the real money.  I believe that’s a really great analogy for the life of the believer.  We don’t need to study the lies of the world.  We only need to know the Truth.  Remember, the Truth shall set you free.

Make sure you are prioritizing quiet times with the Father, and continually feast on His Word.  Then your eyes will remain so focused on Truth that lies won’t have a chance on you.

To the Jews who had believed Him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.  Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. John 8:31-32

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me.  John 14:6

But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away.  Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.  John 16:7