Worship

Scripture

Our reading today touches on a seemingly challenging topic in not only our faith, but the world today: right and wrong. In our walk with God we will be challenged at times to stop doing some things and start doing others. Sometimes this may seem difficult and other times it may seem downright frustrating. It may seem as though God is this tyrant demanding obedience through a long list of dos and don’ts. I must admit, I have found myself in this same mindset during my walk with God – but no longer.

What shifted my mindset? Well, to begin with, I stopped looking at the Bible sentence by sentence and began looking at the word of God as a whole. I began to see the story of existence as the story of God’s character, and I had to answer this question for myself and I had to answer with the truest conviction of my heart: Is God loving? Through the commandments, the prophecy or destruction, and the death of Jesus, is God loving?

I know we’ve all heard the saying: God is love, but how do you defend that idea against a verse in which God warns of coming destruction to His people if they don’t obey His commands? Honestly, I think it’s quite easy. We must see God as who He is: a father. A father of creation. If a father saw his son headed towards a dangerous situation and didn’t warn him of what could happen, wouldn’t this be considered neglect? Wouldn’t any loving father warn their son of the impending danger of their actions? Absolutely! We must understand that these verses are not threats – they are warnings. Warnings from a God who loves His people dearly and desires to love them, commune with them, and prosper them – a process that is impossible if they seek prosperity through the desires of their flesh. 

God is loving. God is just. God is fair. He is the only being in this world that is. If God is attempting to correct something in your life or challenging you to stop something and begin something new He is not not trying to keep you from happiness or comfort. He is attempting to shift your gaze to Himself. To grow you, prosper you, and commune with you. God wants you.

Prayer

HONOR GOD

Our Maker is intently listening to us, right now. Take a moment and share with Him how thankful you are that He’s with us!

ASK GOD

The Lord renews our mind and purifies our thoughts. What are some thoughts you need to give to the Lord? Share those with Him now.

SUBMIT TO GOD

CLOSING PRAYER

Father, we know you are in control. Thank you that we can trust in your power and your word. Help us to recognize the magicians and illusions of this world that will attempt to distract us from your power. May your Holy Spirit lead us through conviction and encouragement to trust in your holy word.  In Jesus Name, Amen