Today's Scripture
"Don't be pulled into a way of life shaped by God's life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness. God said, 'I am holy; you be holy.'" - 1 Peter 1:14-16 MSG
Thoughts for Today
This week we are looking at the prevailing "everything is relative—make your own right and wrong" attitude. All around us we hear, "If it's right for you, do it!" In the news media, television, movies, politics—and sadly, even in some churches. Each of us as individual believers needs to be watchful that we don't fall into the trap of being influenced by this kind of thinking. It would be so easy to rationalize our behavior when deep inside we know what we are doing is wrong. It would be so easy to justify the wrong choices we make by blaming our circumstances.
God, in his great love for us, has given us absolute boundaries. Inside the boundary is right; outside the boundary is wrong. He wants us to be pulled into a way of life shaped by his life, not by the news journalists, or movies, or television or anyone who says, "Just do your own thing."
It is important to understand that God has given us these boundaries for our own protection. He didn't give us rules just for the sake of rules. He is our Creator, our heavenly Father, and he knows what is best for us—spiritually, emotionally and physically. Just as we give our children boundaries for their own well being, God has given us boundaries to keep us safe, well-adjusted, healthy and at peace.
Consider this …
Have you been doing your own thing? Making your own rules? Maybe it is a matter of wrong priorities … or unforgiveness … or dabbling in pornography on the Internet. Whatever area of your life that isn't in sync with God's will—are you ready to step inside the boundaries and begin doing things his way? To make Jesus Lord of every part of your life and receive his love and forgiveness? You can make this choice right now Just talk to him. He is ready and eager to hear from you.
Father, please forgive me for this area of my life that just isn't right. Help me to begin making right choices—to get back on track with you. I really do want to do things your way. And I know that your way is the best way. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from …
Knowing God My Father: Applying the Names of God to My Personal Life by Jimmy Ray Lee, D.Min. This curriculum is designed to help people strengthen their relationship with their heavenly Father by applying His names to their personal life. Along with helping Christians know God better, it can serve as an evangelistic tool by giving a true picture of God to people who may have a distorted view of Him because of an absent or abusive earthly father who did not or does not provide for them. This group can also help men who want to be better fathers. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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