Pesky Things

 Nehemiah 9:16-17  But they, our ancestors, became arrogant and stiff-necked, and they did not obey your commands. They refused to listen… 

            A few days ago we spoke of Peter’s encouragement to make every effort to make sure future generations know the message of truth. Now we see “the shoe on the other foot” so to speak. We look back to the pride and arrogance of Israel and their constant rebellion to God’s ways. But we must ask ourselves, what will future generations say about us? Will they speak of our generation’s rebellion, disobedience, and refusal to listen to the truth of the Gospel?

            God himself has provided the solution.

Isaiah 55:6-7  Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts. Let them turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy on them, and to our God, for he will freely pardon.

Acts 2:21 And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

Acts 3:19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord…

            I realize that I am writing to an audience who rarely deals with any obvious or blatant sins. However sometimes the sins of the mind and heart—the less obvious sins—are sneaky and settle themselves into our thoughts. Sins of impatience, thoughtlessness, rudeness, negativity, or just plain mean-spirited attitudes. None of these pesky things help us follow God’s ways.

1 John 1:8-9  If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Gracious Heavenly Father,

            Forgive us for the sins of the mind and heart—all those little pesky things that sneak their way inside us. Thank you for your grace and mercy offered to all. Keep us in your loving arms. May we leave a faithful example for those who follow.

            In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, Amen.

 

The devotional Pesky Things appeared first on Write From My Heart at writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com

email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com