3-12-14 “People With Options”
2 Peter 1:3-4
His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
When Jesus came, he showed us a whole new way to live; it’s true! I don’t have to do what automatically comes naturally to me. I don’t have to be selfish, prideful, hateful, moody, depressed, scared, vengeful, impatient, frustrated, or snarky. I can love people, overlook their faults, forgive and forget, be humble, gracious, generous, faithful, hopeful, joyful, and patient. God gives me the ability and the desire to be like Jesus. (Philippians 2:13) I am free! I am not a slave to my sinful nature. (Romans 6:6,14) Jesus gives me options!
Rob read a quote on Sunday when he was teaching that went something like this: Despising Christianity cuts out and removes our morals and core values.
Isn’t that so true? In our country, we’d like for our neighbors, co-workers, friends, relatives, and classmates to be gracious and forgiving, patient and humble. The idea of “doing unto others” is totally appealing to everyone. But the reason we don’t attain this in society is because society is trying to have godly values without God. They want the good things that come from God, but they don’t want God.
“Separation of church and state” just means the state can’t be in charge of your religion as in the days of King Henry the 8th of England who declared himself head of the church. Our country thinks separation of church and state means don’t ever mention the One True and Living God in public - not ever.
Yet, our leaders and citizens claim to yearn for peace. But peace comes from God (Colossians 3:15), so they’re out of luck! American schools continually try to insert some kind of behavior code. We even have the “Good Samaritan Law” in the books for crying out loud! But it won’t work because what people really want is godliness, but we can’t have that without God. It’s just not possible.
Jesus, only Jesus, is the one who gives us options for our behaviors and thoughts. There is no alternative for people who reject him. They only know and have access to their sinful nature. Godliness and morals are only for people who can, through the power of Jesus Christ, deny their sinful nature. They are the people with options.
Dear God,
I thank you so much for giving me the ability and the desire to do what pleases you. It’s so sad to live in a country so deceived by thinking they can expect and attain godliness apart from you. I pray for you to give me opportunities to challenge the ones who are deceived and encourage the ones who aren’t. Thank you for giving me godliness through your Son. Thank you for options. Thank you for making a way for me NOT to be a slave to sin! I appreciate that and love you so much and pray in Jesus’ name, amen.
2 Peter 1:3-4
His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
When Jesus came, he showed us a whole new way to live; it’s true! I don’t have to do what automatically comes naturally to me. I don’t have to be selfish, prideful, hateful, moody, depressed, scared, vengeful, impatient, frustrated, or snarky. I can love people, overlook their faults, forgive and forget, be humble, gracious, generous, faithful, hopeful, joyful, and patient. God gives me the ability and the desire to be like Jesus. (Philippians 2:13) I am free! I am not a slave to my sinful nature. (Romans 6:6,14) Jesus gives me options!
Rob read a quote on Sunday when he was teaching that went something like this: Despising Christianity cuts out and removes our morals and core values.
Isn’t that so true? In our country, we’d like for our neighbors, co-workers, friends, relatives, and classmates to be gracious and forgiving, patient and humble. The idea of “doing unto others” is totally appealing to everyone. But the reason we don’t attain this in society is because society is trying to have godly values without God. They want the good things that come from God, but they don’t want God.
“Separation of church and state” just means the state can’t be in charge of your religion as in the days of King Henry the 8th of England who declared himself head of the church. Our country thinks separation of church and state means don’t ever mention the One True and Living God in public - not ever.
Yet, our leaders and citizens claim to yearn for peace. But peace comes from God (Colossians 3:15), so they’re out of luck! American schools continually try to insert some kind of behavior code. We even have the “Good Samaritan Law” in the books for crying out loud! But it won’t work because what people really want is godliness, but we can’t have that without God. It’s just not possible.
Jesus, only Jesus, is the one who gives us options for our behaviors and thoughts. There is no alternative for people who reject him. They only know and have access to their sinful nature. Godliness and morals are only for people who can, through the power of Jesus Christ, deny their sinful nature. They are the people with options.
Dear God,
I thank you so much for giving me the ability and the desire to do what pleases you. It’s so sad to live in a country so deceived by thinking they can expect and attain godliness apart from you. I pray for you to give me opportunities to challenge the ones who are deceived and encourage the ones who aren’t. Thank you for giving me godliness through your Son. Thank you for options. Thank you for making a way for me NOT to be a slave to sin! I appreciate that and love you so much and pray in Jesus’ name, amen.
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