From the Preacher’s Pen
Everyone lives by some standard, some criteria for what is right and wrong, honorable or dishonorable. If we would look forward to God’s promises and blessings we must use His standard, the Bible, for our standard of right and wrong.
While God’s word, the Bible, is filled with many lessons for us, I would like to suggest a few things worthy of our time and effort to work on. Let’s consider a few…
Lessons from God
1. Wake Up! The Psalmist said, This is the day which the Lord has made; let us rejoice & be glad in it (Psalm 118:24). God makes time for us. We should make time for Him and appreciate all that He has done for us. Everything in the Bible is a reminder pointing us to God. Don’t sleep, though, and miss out on what is really important.
2. Dress Up! No, the clothes you may be wearing today are not the point. We’ve all met someone that is beautiful and well-dressed but was so ugly in attitude that no one could stand them. Likewise, we’ve met people that are truly beautiful regardless of their clothing or looks. 1 Samuel 16:7 reminds us, God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. Improve your looks with a beautiful heart!
3. Shut Up! God gave us two ears and one mouth, so He must have meant for us to do twice as much listening as talking. He who guards his lips guards his soul (Proverbs 13:3). Say nice things and learn to listen… especially to God!
4. Stand Up! Stand for something or you will fall for anything! There are many things in this world that we may choose to stand up for, but none of them will ever be as great as choosing to stand with God. Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith (Galatians 6:9-10).
5. Look Up! When we forget God, we forget our real power and ability. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13).
6. Reach Up! Don’t just acknowledge God as being there, do His will and faithfully follow Him! Trust in the Lord with all your heart, & lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, & He will direct your path (Proverbs 3:5-6).
7. Lift Up! Many people imagine that they serve in God’s Secret Service. He doesn’t have one! And if you don’t let anyone else know about God the chances are you don’t talk to Him either. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer & supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God (Philippians 4:6).
Many people in this world imagine that they know and serve God without ever learning and obeying His will. If you would really know God, His greatness, His promises and, above all, His forgiveness and blessings, then you must learn to live for Him.
Be a part, an active, living part of His family this week and always!
— Lester P. Bagley