Buffered

For it is written: “As I live, says the LORD, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall confess to God.”

We often have a sense on earth that we are separated from the supernatural realm—both good and evil. This can give us a kind of fearlessness at some times, or more bravery at others to attempt to serve our own will. It’s like making a comment on social media or getting into a heated debate on a public platform with a person you may or may not see face to face. There is a buffer. We often act in a different way than we would in person. The same effect happens in cases of road rage when we think no one hears our ranting. We must remember that we are guaranteed to see God one day, and He really is here with you today; willing to help and guide, but so is the devil—react appropriately.

AMEN

Adopted

You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. --John 8:44

I love the fact that I have been saved, redeemed, and reborn into adoption by God the Father. The problem arises when the father of the earth (the devil) comes calling for a visit and we answer. He's always watching us anyway, and following us around--not because he misses us or wants to apologize; no, he wants to mess us up and get in the way of our true forever home we have been invited into. He will tell any lie to convince us we are damaged or unworthy. The problem is when we begin to buy what he's selling, and start dealing in lies ourselves. At that point, we aren't just visiting our old home, but we start spending the night there. Then we work our way up to a week on and a week off. Maybe we like his place because it's fun and there aren't too many rules. Next thing you know, you've accepted an invitation to move back full time, and decide to reject God's adoption. I can't think of a sadder state to be in, but it's only final on your last breath. Come back home today, say hello again to God, and just leave the lies of the devil--no goodbye needed for him.

AMEN

A Perfect Sacrifice

So Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.

Hebrews 9:28

The other day in prayer I wondered, and asked the Holy Spirit why Jesus was so young when He had His ministry and was crucified? The answer I received in my thoughts was that at the age He died, He was in His prime. He had His life, potential, hopes, loves, friendships, and aspirations all in front of Him. Jesus was not crucified at a time where one could say, "Well, He lived a long full life." I'm nearing fifty now, and when I think of myself in my early thirties I consider that age so young. I know for many, that is the age of having and raising a family, along with many other milestones. Jesus's perfect earthly life was sacrificed for our eternal salvation. I thank you LORD for the love and sacrifice You provided to this lowly servant. For my redemption, and the redemption of all who believe in You!

AMEN