Two of the most important things you can read in scripture are the Book of Psalms and the Book of Proverbs. Billy Graham has had the practice of reading five Psalms and one Proverb everyday throughout his life. When he was asked why this was he said the Psalms provide wisdom about God and Proverbs provides wisdom about people. Sounds like something every believer could learn from and apply to their lives. I know I can use wisdom in the area of dealing with people not to mention that my desire is to grow closer to God each day. Maybe you might consider starting this pattern.
However, tonight as I was reading I found myself looking for scriptures about patience. Ever prayed for that if so you know it's not something to take lightly. The scripture my concordance led me to was Psalm 40:1,
"I waited patiently on the Lord, and He turned to me and heard my cry for help."
If that's not the Gospel in 17 words I don't know what is. For me that's my understanding of salvation. Jesus loves you enough to die for you but he also loves you enough to allow you the choice to follow Him or not. Often non-believers and church-goers see a relationship with Jesus as a means to an end. As one friend said people want fire insurance till they realize they need life insurance. However, that's not all Psalm 40 brings to the reader, it also addresses what God will do for you when you surrender to Him.
He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock making my steps secure. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear, and put there trust in the Lord. Psalm 40:2-3 ESV
When you call upon God to save you through His Son Jesus Christ. God has promised to establish you and guide you in your walk. My favorite part of this passage though is the second half of verse 3. The number one reason I know of for why people get saved is because of the testimony of a believer. Often the first response a new believer gets from friends family and loved ones to the news of a salvation experience is often anger and fear. People by nature have a hard time excepting change whether in their lives or in the lives of those around them. However, the change one should experience as a new believer is often so radical that it makes others uncomfortable. It's probably the best testament to a salvation that the individual leaves behind the sinful choices they lived in and starts a new life. It's also why new converts are more effective witnesses to unbelievers. People see the change realize that it's real and want that same change. It's not just a fad but a life choice. Does how you live your life make others nervous? Do individuals monitor their behavior when you are around? If you answered yes then you are having an influence. Don't be ashamed of what God is doing in you and through you. Just be obedient to His Word and the Guidance of the Holy Spirit and God will use you in ways you could never imagine.
Be Blessed
However, tonight as I was reading I found myself looking for scriptures about patience. Ever prayed for that if so you know it's not something to take lightly. The scripture my concordance led me to was Psalm 40:1,
"I waited patiently on the Lord, and He turned to me and heard my cry for help."
If that's not the Gospel in 17 words I don't know what is. For me that's my understanding of salvation. Jesus loves you enough to die for you but he also loves you enough to allow you the choice to follow Him or not. Often non-believers and church-goers see a relationship with Jesus as a means to an end. As one friend said people want fire insurance till they realize they need life insurance. However, that's not all Psalm 40 brings to the reader, it also addresses what God will do for you when you surrender to Him.
He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock making my steps secure. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear, and put there trust in the Lord. Psalm 40:2-3 ESV
When you call upon God to save you through His Son Jesus Christ. God has promised to establish you and guide you in your walk. My favorite part of this passage though is the second half of verse 3. The number one reason I know of for why people get saved is because of the testimony of a believer. Often the first response a new believer gets from friends family and loved ones to the news of a salvation experience is often anger and fear. People by nature have a hard time excepting change whether in their lives or in the lives of those around them. However, the change one should experience as a new believer is often so radical that it makes others uncomfortable. It's probably the best testament to a salvation that the individual leaves behind the sinful choices they lived in and starts a new life. It's also why new converts are more effective witnesses to unbelievers. People see the change realize that it's real and want that same change. It's not just a fad but a life choice. Does how you live your life make others nervous? Do individuals monitor their behavior when you are around? If you answered yes then you are having an influence. Don't be ashamed of what God is doing in you and through you. Just be obedient to His Word and the Guidance of the Holy Spirit and God will use you in ways you could never imagine.
Be Blessed
No comments:
Post a Comment
You may not agree with me that is alright Jesus still loves you!