A few weeks ago I loaned my truck to a friend. I have been
having some trouble with the four wheel drive dash light. It stays on even when
the truck is in two wheel drive. I know this, but my friend didn't. He thought
he had the security of being in four wheel drive when driving on slick roads
because the indicator light said he was in 4 X 4 mode. What a shock he had when
he started sliding.
I wonder if others or even if I sometimes have the same secure
trust that is false in regards to spiritual security? Do we get in a routine
that we follow and think that is all it takes to please God? We go to church
every week, sing songs, give offerings, read scriptures, keep the commandments,
and help others once in a while. Those things “we do” don't save us nor insure
our safety in Heaven. Galatians 2:21 NASB says “I do not nullify the grace of
God, for if righteousness comes through the Law (which we couldn't keep if we
tried—my comment), then Christ died needlessly.” So let's accept His gift, His
sacrifice on the cross, and show our gratitude by our actions (deeds). “For we
are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared
beforehand so that we should walk in them” (Eph. 2:10).
Jesus gives more insight into this teaching in John chapter
8. The Jews in this chapter didn't believe in Jesus' divine birth. They accused
Him of being an illegitimate son of Joseph and Mary (verse 41). But, they
thought they were on the “fast track” to Heaven because of their superior
genealogy (Abraham's children, v. 39). The truth is they weren't willing to
acknowledge Jesus as divine and the eternal Son of God. Are You? Let me leave
you with a promise from Jesus for the New Year and beyond: “Truly, truly, I say
to you, if anyone keeps My word he will never see death” (John 8:51).
Have a great New Year!
—Alan
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