A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh. (Luke 6:45)
A friend of mine (Grammy Blick) writes a beautiful message each morning (Grammy Blick's Bible Reading - on BlogSpot). Yesterday, her message was titled " Judgement Call". This morning, I was ministering via email before my eyes had fully opened and what was contained in her post came to mind. Take the time to read it. Your time will have been well spent.
I chose today's verse out of compassion for a Godly woman who is suffering silently at the hands of others. The bitterness and anger (not to mention ignorance) that many "Christians" exhibit, is, at times, enough to make me vomit. The horrible, vicious utterings of the uneducated often gives way to a greater misconception...believing that one is favored in God's eyes over another or being exempt from the rules that apply to everyone else. There is not one better or more favored in God's eyes nor is anyone exempt from His teachings. We are all afforded the same opportunity to ask for and receive forgiveness and to be welcomed into the family. We were all there the day the nails were hammered into the hands of our Savior - each and every one of us! No one - not one person, no none - can say they are above the need for salvation.
Take the focus off of those whose sins you find fault with and place is squarely where it belongs - on your own sins. Do not spend your time gossiping about what he or she is or has done - worry about your own failures! As we approach the end of 2011, you may want to consider all that God has done for YOU this year...then take an honest look at what you have done with the gifts He's given you. Have you used them to spread His word, are you doing His work? Have others seen His benevolence in you? Have your words harmed or helped? Have you solved all the problems in this world from the keyboard of your computer? I guess it's time to continue on into the new year with a better attitude and a greater focus on what is important and who we are in relation to the Father in Heaven!
There aren't any exceptions to God's rules. They apply to all, regardless of age or upbringing. They are not to be taken lightly. Salvation comes only to those who seek it, ask for it and accept it. It is offered to all!!! It is free for the asking yet it carried a high price tag. Do yourself a favor this year and live the love given to you so freely! Accept the challenge of being an apostle for Christ...share His story, spread His word - live His truths!!!
(photo by Celia Darrigo)
