A popular TV preacher recently stated that he doesn’t like to preach on hell or sin because it’s not his gifting; he chooses, rather, to encourage people. Likewise, a “Christian” record label was quoted as telling young songwriters to keep the lyrics generic, so people can make of the song whatever they want. We’re watching Christian schools bow down to secular dictates, and are promoting teachings not founded in Scripture. This lukewarm, half-committed stance is becoming accepted in Christian circles, as though it’s normal.
Friends, we have a problem! The thing about following God, is that He requires ALL of us. He is not over-demanding, but knows our hearts can be distracted and fickle. We, ourselves, want a spouse that has eyes only for us. We wouldn’t tolerate a half-hearted, wandering-eye type of mate, but people think God should be fine with it. He’s not. “You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with ALL your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13) He takes it further… “You shall love the Lord your God with ALL your heart, with ALL your soul, and with ALL your mind, and with ALL your strength.” (Mark 12:30)
We all know the rebuking Scripture that confronts this very thing…”I know your deeds, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other. But since you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth.” (Revelation 3:15, 16).
Is God content to have our loyalties shared with this world? “No man can serve two masters: for he will either hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to one and despise the other.” (Matthew 6:24)
Our hearts need to point each other to God, over and over again. When we get distracted, discouraged, numb, worn out…we don’t need the disappointing dry-wells of this world, but friends that remind us that Jesus is our First Love, our only Redeemer, and our coming King. Keep loving Him and looking for Him. He is looking to see who has kept their hearts on Him.
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