If I let my mate have their way, they may treat me better. If I pray long and hard enough, maybe they’ll go to church. If I share ... I’m ... perhaps some of it will rub off. If I’m comp
If I let my mate have their way, they may treat me better. If I pray long and hard enough, maybe they’ll go to church. If I share everything I’m learning, perhaps some of it will rub off. If I’m completely obedient and submissive, they will get saved.
But, God says - you can’t save anyone but yourself, Ez. 14:14.
If I choose my children’s friends, I can guard their influence. If I keep them at my side, perhaps no harm will come. If I teach them about God from dusk ‘til dawn, they will never stray. If I do home schooling, I can keep them from the evil one.
But, God says - you can’t save anyone but yourself, Ez. 14:16.
If I study all week, my Sunday School class will receive my lesson. If I speak with tears and emotion, they’ll know all I say is true. If I keep insisting what I believe, they’ll finally get it. If I serve all over the church, others will, too.
But, God says - you can’t save anyone but yourself, Ez. 14:18.
If I dress just right, the world will know I’m a Christian. If I let people walk on me, they’ll know my God is real. If I do everything perfectly, others will follow. If I give away all my possessions, they’ll want what I have.
But, God says - you can’t save anyone but yourself, Ez. 14:20.
Do you suppose God knew we wouldn’t get it the first time?
Our outside appearance doesn’t mean anything until it’s a by-product of what’s on the inside. Our faith is not to be in who we are, but in who God is.
If we’d put all that focus and energy unto our own spiritual growth, just think of the great things we might accomplish!
When our relationship with God is first on our list of priorities, He gives a very special promise. He’ll leave a remnant for those we love, Ez. 14:22.
© by Joyce C. Lock
http://my.homewithgod.com/blessingsandlessons/
This writing may be used in its entirety, with credits in tact,
for non-profit ministering purposes.
Making OE Stationery
Using the Outlook E-mail ProgramWhatever jpg or gif you intend to use must first be stored in this file: C:Program FilesCommon FilesMicrosoft SharedStationeryCommitted Works: Exploring Biblical Symbolism and Prophecy
Delve into the profound symbolism and prophecies of the Bible, where celestial battles, divine horses, and apocalyptic visions intertwine with human destiny. This exploration reveals the layers and complexities of scriptural texts, offering insights into their timeless relevance and spiritual depth.A Call to Unity of the Church
In a world rife with division, the church's unity stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to divine truth over human doctrine. This unity is not merely a lofty ideal but a practical necessity, rooted deeply in scriptural teachings that emphasize the importance of collective faith and action. Understanding and living by God's word, as opposed to following merely human interpretations, can be the difference between spiritual triumph and failure.