Weak vs. strong

Romans 14:1 “Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters.” You and I can study God’s Word as thoroughly as our brain power allows and we will arrive at different conclusions as to what is God’s will.  We begin with the same premise that God’s Word is absolute truth, there are no contradictions and the Trinity defines God.  Yet, there are Baptists, Lutherans, Methodists, Presbyterians and the list is almost endless.  Who is right?  Who is wrong?  Our problem is not with our premise.  It is with our brain power.  Our human nature.  Our not being our infallible God.  Therefore,  listen carefully while not judging and realize no human possesses absolute truth–while our God does.  Be Christian–know your Savior while continuing to study and pray.  

Wear the right clothes

Romans 13:14 “Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.” Have you ever thought to yourself,—I can’t wear that, I wore it last time I went there or last time I saw them.  Or have you thought—I need more clothes to be fashionable.  Theoretically, over $368 billion is spent in the fashion world every year in the US.  Clothing and fashion seem to be ultra important.  Is that same thought true of our faith?  Is fashion important or is a simple childlike faith, clothing ourselves with one outfit the most important fashion statement we cam possibly make.  One outfit, one faith, one Heavenly Father–the best fashion statement we could possibly make.

Commandments summarized

Romans 13:9 “The commandments, ‘Do not commit adultery,’ Do not murder,’  ‘Do not steal,’ ‘Do not covet,’  and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ If the last 5 words of this passage are followed all the other words of this passage are summarized and obeyed.  Love is the one key, which when used, solves all interpersonal problems.  Isn’t that an amazing truth which has been true since the beginning of time and applies to all people and all nations.  God’s truths never fail.

Government authority

Romans 13:1 “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.  The authorities that exist have been established by God.” Throughout the history of the world there have been governments which have performed in the most ungodlike manner.  How can God, through Paul write this passage?  We know God is always in total control.  We know God allows the Devil to have his way.  You and I can understand this passage when seeming good authorities are in control, but evil government?  Like Hitler!  This is a time we will have to wait for God to explain.

Revenge–Never

Romans 12:19 “Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” Seeking revenge is the worst thing a person can even consider for their own emotional well being.  Never is a person happy and content when getting even.  Inner turmoil is the only result when revenge is even hoped for.  We must always place revenge thinking in God’s hands, clear our minds, go on with life and walk the purposeful life God intends we live.