As I read through the Bible again this year, I am struck all over again at how relevant it is. History ignored is likely to be repeated. History acknowledged and studied, is useful. It can help you have courage. It can give you wisdom to not repeat the negative things. It can encourage you to move forward. History is important.
God gives us a standard to live by. Today I want to share a chunk of scripture from Ephesians. It gives so much insight when you read it and reflect on our current culture and state of affairs.
Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are His dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered Himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God. Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God’s people. Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes- these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping, the things of this world. Don’t be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey Him. Don’t participate in the things these people do. For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So, live as people of light! For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true. Carefully determine what pleases the Lord. Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them. It is shameful even to talk about the things that ungodly people do in secret. But their evil intentions will be exposed when the light shines on them, for the light makes everything visible. This is why it is said, “Awake, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will give you light.” So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly but understand what the Lord wants you to do. Ephesians 5:1-17
Now, tell me this scripture isn’t ripe with relevance!! It is so, so powerfully relevant that it’s hard to believe.
The world is dark, but the Light of the world lives within each one of us who have accepted Jesus as our Savior!!!! This is the power of the good news.
Let’s re-read the portion that says, “Don’t be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins…” I believe today is the day to fully repent of our excuses and those who excuse all types of behavior. Yes, I know we all sin and fall short of God’s glory, but some of us do so and repent…while others do so and make it gospel.
Let that sink in. You know it’s true.
Our world has worked overtime to pardon every sin. Only Jesus can make us right. We don’t get to rewrite the gospel to suit us.
It’s time to look back to move forward.
Look back on your moment of salvation. Thank God and remember what He has done for you. Then move forward with a heart that fears the Lord, not man.
365 Days in the Presence 