Thursday, June 2, 2011

WHY DO BAD THINGS HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE?

Have you ever thought that? Or you ever thought "Why do good things happen to bad people?" Asaph did and recorded his thoughts in Psalm 73. It overwhelmed him. Ps. 73:2-3 "But I almost stopped believing; I had almost lost my faith because I was jealous of proud people. I saw wicked people doing well."

Asaph tried to live right. He tried to live the way God wanted him to but he saw the injustice of those not living for God; in fact, brag about it, getting by without any worries, no struggles, no cares. They didn't have the troubles like the rest of them or have problems like other people (vs.5). Asaph's view was understandable but something changed. He began to see it through different eyes. God's eyes. Vs. 16-17 "I tried to understand all this, but it was too hard for me to see until I went to the Temple of God. Then I understood what will happen to them." Asaph began to realize they would be destroyed by God because they did not follow God. So whatever you see here on earth. Whatever you think is fair and what is unfair, remember God has your back. He sees it all. He keeps score very well. What one sows, one will surely reap accordingly. God's word tells us we WILL have struggles, trials and tribulation here on earth. Those who struggle the most, Jesus said will be blessed the most. Asaph confesses "My body and my mind may become weak, but God is my strength. He is mine forever." (vs. 26)

Read the entire chapter of Psalm 73 for yourself by clicking here.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

THERE'S GOT TO BE PROOF

I've always felt and knew when one claims to be a Christian, there should be overwhelming proof that it is in fact, a true claim. I base this belief on what II Cor. 6:17 says "Come out from among them And be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclearn, And I will receive you." I believe a true Christian will live differently, participate in different activities, think differently. Their focus will be different. Their purpose will be different. I say this because this is exactly what happened in my life when I truly surrendered my life to Christ. I was a church girl, going through the motions, talking the talk but certainly not walking the walk.

I am amazed how people actually claim to be a Christian yet their lives reflect something entirely different. You may think I'm judging. Oh contrare...I'm just looking for proof. Their lives are far from God. Their's is lip service, which is generaly when it's convenient for them. Oh, how my life used to be the same. That thought grieves my spirit! And I am saddened for those I see and know well, who are playing the same game.

As I sit here and reflect on my own life, I feel much like Paul who said he was the chief sinner of all sinners. I fall so short. I feel I am the worst example of what a Christian should look like BUT...my strongest desire is to be a reflection of God. By far, the majority of what I do and think about revolves around God, fulfilling His purpose in my life, encouraging others to know God deeper and to have consistent devotion and service to God. Am I perfect? Ha! Just ask my husband and be prepared for a list of things that would prove I am not. I think he could and would also give you a list of things, knowing me better than anyone besides God, that would indicate my true heart's desire.

I mentioned II Cor. 6:17 earlier but I have recently come along another verse to support my belief which has prompted my writing this blog.

"Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turned to God." Matthew 3:8, NLT

While we cannot look into the hearts of others, there SHOULD BE proof for us to see. You've heard the expression "if you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough proof to convict you?" Please evaluate your life as I close this post. Do you take your Christian walk seriously? Is your life truly a reflection of God's presence in your life OR do you blend in with the rest of the world? Your activities, how you spend your time? Do you need to make a new commitment? Or are you like me and realize you've never truly made that needed commitment to Christ? Do it today. Don't hesitate. Your eternity depends on it.

My greatest desire is that Jesus would be YOUR greatest desire.