August 19, 2022Dear friends,
In recent weeks, we have looked at six areas where we need to heed God’s warnings: 1. Resist Being A People Pleaser; 2. Be Very Careful How You Live; 3. Make Sure to Test the Spirits; 4. Let Go of Empty Words; 5. Put Aside Revenge; and 6. Use Your Influential Power Wisely.
Today, let’s look at two more areas, as examined in the following article: https://www.ibelieve.com/faith/10-warnings-in-the-bible-we-don-t-take-seriously-enough.html.
“7. Say “No” to Imitating Evil
In today’s society, it’s not uncommon to see individuals take on the look, sayings, and behaviors of popular celebrities, book, and movie figures of less than honorable character—dressing like they dress, adopting their mottos as their own, and taking on their overall personas.
Maybe it just seems like a harmless, fun thing to do, but look at what 3 John 1:11 has to say about it. “Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God” (3 John 1:11).
Although it’s easy to get caught up in the charm and likeability of clever and rebellious characters, Scripture warns us to, “Reject every kind of evil” (1 Thessalonians 5:22).
As 1 Peter 2:21 (please see “Scripture for the weekend”) urges, when looking for a role model in life, follow Jesus’ example.
8. Keep Your Vows to God
Some Christians may believe that since we live under grace, we’re not obligated to keep our vows to God because we’re already forgiven, He’ll understand, and it doesn’t really matter to Him.
Yet, Deuteronomy 23:21 states, “If you make a vow to the Lord your God, do not be slow to pay it, for the Lord your God will certainly demand it of you and you will be guilty of sin.”
From breaking marriage vows to promising God various things in times of crisis, many individuals rationalize not keeping their word to Him.
Still Numbers 30:2 urges, “When a man makes a vow to the Lord or takes an oath to obligate himself by a pledge, he must not break his word but must do everything he said.”
God is faithful and keeps His word to us. Deuteronomy 7:9 reminds us, “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commandments.”
When tempted to break your word to God, ask Him to help you to be faithful, as He is faithful to you.”
Have you taken time this summer to be with family and friends? Karen and I had the joy of seeing family and friends in Connecticut recently and going to two churches where the Word of God is faithfully proclaimed. Here are links to two messages that our sons-in-law preached:
https://www.christproclamation.org/sermons/sermon/2022-08-07/the-blessed-life
https://wethefc.com/resources/sermons/giving-thanks-for-the-church/
Scripture for the weekend: “For to this you were called because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps” 1 Peter 2:21 (NKJV)
Thought for the weekend: “God gives us wisdom when we seek His knowledge and understanding instead of relying on our own.” – Stomie Omartian