Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Do This, Not That! (Aug 24)

Again and again I sent my servants the prophets, who said, 'Do not do this detestable thing that I hate!'
                                             Jeremiah 44:4 NIV

Why do we do what we do? 

Who do you listen to?

The Old Testament people had prophets and the law to guide, direct and correct their behavior.  Yet, more often than not, they did not respond with a change to correct behavior or repent in their heart.  The citizens of Judah held idols in their hands, hearts and on high places in the countryside.

The point of today's verse, doing detestable things, is echoed in Paul's letter to the Romans in chapter 7.
In that chapter, Paul comments and asks about his being a slave to sin; not understanding what he does; not doing what he wants to do; and doing what he does not want to do.  He gives credit, appropriately to Jesus Christ for rescuing him from his body of death.

Paul touches on contrasts in himself; his mind being a slave to God's law and the sinful nature, a slave to the law of sin.

As we live, we must ask the Spirit to keep our eyes and hearts and ears open to the still small voice that will illuminate our path and direct our steps.  For if we do not ask for the Spirit to  keep our eyes, hearts, mind and ears open to the Lord's guidance, we could loose the knowledge of God and be given over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not be done (Romans 1:28).  

Again consider the citizens of ancient Judah; how they as a result of not keeping the knowledge of God, were given over to a depraved mind and did what ought not be done.

What do you do to prepare yourself for difficult decision moments?

During difficult decision moments, where do you look for guidance when you have incomplete, imperfect and perhaps contrasting information?

Pray that the Lord will equip you through the Spirit to make the correct decision, and give you the courage and strength, to do what ought to be done, during difficult decision moments.

In Christ,

David P

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