In an effort to answer a popular question I seem to be asked quite a lot, I wanted to continue writing about the influence Jesus Christ should have on our lives.
While last week I wrote about Jesus being a guest in your home, this week I thought it would be beneficial to ask “What if Jesus hung out with you for an entire day?”
Would you act the same way, eat the same food or go to the same places? Though I am confident most believers would go about their lives with pride showcasing a godly lifestyle, I am also aware many do not live according to God’s commands portraying an obvious defiance of the Lord. It is no coincidence these people are the same folks who continue to cry out to God asking Him for blessings that never seem to come.
The bible talks about these people in detail: “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” (Galatians 6:7-9)
My long time friend Eric claims to be a believer and often seems to have the holy spirit shine from within him however, a large number of the choices he makes on a daily basis point toward defiance. An aspiring photographer, Eric enjoys a good scare and has allowed himself to give into temptation by visiting Universal Studio’s Halloween Horror Nights several times in the past week. Pretending to concentrate on unique picture opportunities, Eric admitted he would not take Jesus to such a demonic themed attraction park if the Lord were his guest. So why go at all? Why indulge in such ungodly leisure?
The word of God is clear about horror: “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.” (Ephesians 5:11)
Eric’s story doesn’t stop there. Dating faithless women nearly half his age or bar hopping looking for love in all the wrong places, Eric doesn’t understand the meaning or value of his life. Confused about his mission, clueless as to a choice of career, my friend confessed earlier today that he prayed continuously asking God to give him signs, to bless his life or guide his path.
I feel God will do no such thing while Eric continues to defy Him. His lifestyle dictates God’s blessings will continue to pass him by. Spending more time working on his appearance then in ministry, Eric is a modern Goliath awaiting more of God’s wrath.
“Your iniquities have turned away these things, and your sins have withholden good things from you.” (Jeremiah 5:25)
Instead of feeling sorry for themselves, people of weak faith like Eric should immerse themselves in ministry and mission work catering to God’s children spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. This means more time spent walking with the Lord just as if He were hanging out with you each day. This means more good deeds, more works driven by faith.
“For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so faith apart from works is dead.” (James 2:26)
I hope and pray you are already actively involved in ministry work and answering the Lord’s call for your life. Don’t be a defiance like Eric or, as scripture says, good things will pass you by!
If you do not have immediate guidance available to you or are not part of a church where you can serve in ministry, I invite you to call or email us so we can direct you toward ministry work or put you to work for the Thrive Through Christ Ministries ministry.
Let’s pray.
Father God;
We praise you for your Grace
And for all your blessings in our lives,
For your guidance and your patience
And for your ever present love.
Lord we pray that you will continue to look after us
And provide for us all we need in this life,
We pray that you will spread your light onto our friends,
Our families and all those who seek you.
God we gladly offer you our lives
And pray you will put us to work for you Lord,
We ask that you drive us to fulfill our mission
And allow us to receive your blessings for our works.
Thank you Lord father for all that surrounds us!
Praise God,
Amen
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
