Category: 2021

The Bible View #839 — Sin’s Grasp

In This Issue:
Free the Slaves
Sin’s Damage

Volume: 839     December 20, 2021
Theme: Sin’s Grip

FREE Printable versions of THE BIBLE VIEW (including large print and church bulletin inserts) are available at https://www.openthoumineeyes.com/.

All should read the Bible daily!  While at your computer,  go to www.DevotionsFromTheBible.com and read a chapter each day, and learn something from what you read. SIGN-UP to have the FREE devotion e-mailed (Mon.-Sat.) and read a devotion and KJV chapter at your computer.


Free the Slaves
Bill Brinkworth

When speaking of slavery, most immediately think of those taken against their will from Africa and other countries in the early-to-mid 1800s. However, forced labor continues today and is more prevalent than in the 1800s. 

The International Labour Organization (ILO) estimated in 2013 that 20.9 million men, women, and children around the world are “forced to work for little or no pay and at the complete mercy of their ‘employer’” (www.antislavery.org, 11/2013). Some estimates make the count closer to 30 million.

Those forced to work in mental or physical slavery or controlled by an “employer” are not even close to the numbers of those in bondage in a different, less obvious way.  Those in this type of slavery outnumber the 30 million many times over.  To make matters worse, those in this popular type of bondage often do not realize they have lost their freedoms!

The Bible has much to say about this type of oppression:

  • There are two choices in this world.  One can serve himself and one’s selfish desires, which are often sin and sometimes the devil’s destructive ploys or one can serve God.  There are only these two choices, whether man recognizes it or not.
    “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon [the self-serving desires of our flesh].” Matthew 6:24  Also: Luke 16:13.
  • Although sin is always an individual’s choice, it becomes “addictive” and leads to more iniquity.  Soon sin controls one’s thoughts and is a demanding and controlling force in one’s life.

Lying and deceitfulness oftenlead to more lies and alienation from others as one becomes mistrusted. Bitterness , unforgiveness, resentment, and jealousy rob many of peace and good relationships. Drinking, drugs, pornography, and most sins never fulfill one’s lust and often lead to committing more iniquities in hopes that their cravings will be satisfied. Sexual sins ruin lives and families, wreck relationships but leave the committer with a feeling of loneliness and failure.

On and on goes the list of the consequences of sin.  No one gets away without paying the horrible cost to one’s life because of sin. Iniquities leave one’s life changed and often physically damaged from its commission.  Iniquity never does anything but rob and destroys what is good in one’s life.  Its grasp robs one of joy and makes one a slave.  The committer of sin is led by desires and loses freedoms.

  • When one chooses to do his own thing and ignore the life God desires one to have, the person will not only reap the terrible consequence of sin but will alienate himself from God.
    “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” I John 2:15
    “Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4
    “For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.” Gal. 1:10
  • Jesus addressed a group of saved Jews and told them they could be free (John 8:31-32).  The believers responded that they were not in bondage.
    “They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?” John 8:33

Then Jesus pointed out to them that they were indeed slaves to the sins they had committed.
“Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.” John 8:34

  • Those given over to sin have no permanent desire to live a life that pleases the Lord.
    “For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness.” Rom. 6:20
  • Trusting Christ’s payment for all our iniquities is the only way one can be free of sin’s control and from the ultimate price for committing them — the Lake of Fire!
    “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” John 8:36
    “For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.” Rom. 8:2
  • The choice is always up to the individual!  One does not have to serve sin, although many choose to continue committing it.  We have the liberty to do right.
    “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” Gal. 5:1
    “For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord’s freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ’s servant.” I Cor. 7:22
  • When free from the desire to sin, one should strive to live righteously.  However, the longer one is involved in sin, the harder the battle will be against the temptations it will present.  Halting sin can be changed to a lifestyle that is pleasing to God.
    “Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.” Rom. 6:18
    “But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.” Rom. 6:22
    “Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles.” Mat. 12:18
  • One freed from the desire to sin has the opportunity to serve God freely, and in so doing, one should get their sights off themselves and desire to help others.
    “And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all.” Mark 10:44
  • Although one may choose to serve God, it is servitude out of gratitude and love, not out of forced bondage.  When one decides to surrender control of selfish desires and live the way God commands, one will have a life that is blessed and honored by God! God looks at his servant not as a bond slave but with special love — as a friend.
    “Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.” John 15:15
    “If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.” John 12:26
  • Jesus, our example, was this type of servant also.
    “But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:” Philippians 2:7
    “His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” Mat. 25:21   Also: Mat. 25:23.



The most dangerous and ever-present threat to anyone, even a saved person, is the commission of sin.  It always has a price tag that no one would ever dream would come when committing it.

The charge for getting involved in iniquity usually continues longer than anyone would ever want to pay.  Its bill often comes due when the sin’s commission is forgotten, but there is always a payday for sin.  No one avoids its cost.

When a believer sins, one can always go to the Father in prayer, seek forgiveness, and plead with God for strength not to commit the trespass again. The guilt may be gone, and one will not have to answer for the sin.  However, its temptation will often appear again in one’s life and be a future difficulty one must battle to avoid.

All the good intentions and halting of sin’s commission will not remove sin’s payment.  One must realize one is a sinner and trusts Christ’s death on the cross as the only payment God will recognize to cover one’s wrongdoings. When one does that and asks God to save him, the eternal wage for sin will be removed.  You must be born again (John 3:3) to have the free pardon from all sin.

Do you realize that your sin is against what God desires for your life?  Confess it to God. He knows about it already but wants you to humble yourself and admit it.  Seek to live the way God commands in His Word, the Bible.

Obeying God and living the way He desires you to live will break the chains of sin that are keeping you in bondaget.  You can be free.  There is hope!

“The way to keep the heart quiet is to keep ourselves in the love of God and to do nothing to offend him.”  — Henry


Sin’s Damage
Keach

Sin is composed of naught but subtle wiles,
It fawns and flatters and betrays by smiles;
‘Tis like the panther, or the crocodile,
It seems to love, and promises no wile,
It hides the soul and hates when it vows most love.
It plays the tyrant most by gilded pills (unpleasant people),
It secretly ensnares the souls it kills.
Sin’s promises they all deceitful be,
Does promise wealth, but pays us poverty;
Does promise pleasure, but doth pay us sorrow;
Does promise life today; pays death tomorrow.
No thief so vile, nor treacherous as sin,
Whom fools do hug and have much pleasure in.

“Sin will keep you from the Bible.  The Bible will keep you from sin.” — D. L. Moody

The Bible View #838 — Christmas

In This Issue:
Was Jesus Born on December 25?
An Opportune Time
Jesus Came Anyway
The First and Last Time He Comes

Volume: #838     December 13, 2021
 Theme: Christmas

FREE Printable versions of THE BIBLE VIEW (including large print and church bulletin inserts) are available at https://www.openthoumineeyes.com/.

All should read the Bible daily!  While at your computer,  go to www.DevotionsFromTheBible.com and read a chapter each day, and learn something from what you read. SIGN-UP to have the FREE devotion e-mailed (M-Sat.) and read a devotion and KJV chapter at your computer.


Was Jesus Born on December 25?
Rev. Alexander Hislop

Many Christian holidays have their true meanings and even the time they occurred altered by false religion’s influence.  Christmas, unfortunately, is one of those days.  Although Christ was born on this Earth, and all the Bible says about Him is true, false religions and their effort to get people to accept their false teachings successfully merged their doctrines with those of Christianity.

Here is some of the history behind how December 25th was adopted to be the day of Christ’s birth, according to Rev. Alexander Hislop’s The Two Babylons:

“… The festivals of [Catholic] Rome are innumerable, but five of the most important may be singled out for elucidation: Christmas day, Lady day, Easter, the Nativity of St. John, and the Feast of the Assumption. Each and all of these can be proved to be Babylonian.” This is especially true with the festival in honour of the birth of Christ, Christmas.

“… How comes it that that festival was connected with the 25th of December? There is not a word in the Scriptures about the precise day of His birth or the time of the year when He was born. What is recorded implies that at what time His birth took place couldnot have been on the 25th of December.

“… At the time that the angel announced His birth to the shepherds of Bethlehem, they were feeding their flocks by night in the open fields. Now, no doubt, the climate of Palestine is not so severe as the climate of this country; but even there, though the heat of the day be considerable, the cold of the night, from December to February, is very piercing, and it was not the custom for the shepherds of Judea to watch their flocks in the open fields laterthan about the end of October. It is in the last degree incredible, then, that the birth of Christ could have taken place at the end of December.

“… the celebrated Joseph Mede pronounces a very decisive opinion to the same effect. … At the birth of Christ, every woman and child was to go to be taxed at the city whereto they belonged, whither some had long journeys, but the middle of winter was not fitting for such a business, especially for women with child and children to travel in. Therefore, Christ could not be born in the depth of winter. Again, at the time of Christ’s birth, the shepherds lay abroad watching with their flocks in the nighttime; but this was not likely to be in the middle of winter. And if any shall think the winter wind was not so extreme in these parts, let him remember the words of Christ in the Gospel, ‘… pray ye that your flight be not in the winter … (Mat. 24:20)’.  If the winter was so bad a time to flee in, it seems no fit time for shepherds to lie in the fields and women and children to travel in.”

 “… Indeed, it is admitted by the most learned and candid writers of all parties that the day of our Lord’s birth cannot be determined, and that within the Christian churchno such festival as Christmas was ever heard of till the third century, and that not until the fourth century did it gain much observance.

“… How, then, did the Romish Church fix on December the 25th as Christmas day? Why, thus:

Long before the fourth century a festival was celebrated among the heathen, at that precise time of the year, in honour of the birth of the son of the Babylonian queen of heaven; and it may fairly be presumed that, in order to conciliate the heathen, and to swell the number of the nominal adherents of Christianity, the same festival was adopted by the Roman Church, giving it only the name of Christ. This tendency on the part of Christians to meet paganism halfway was very early developed; and we find Tertullian, even in his day, about the year 230 AD, bitterly lamenting the inconsistency of the disciples of Christ in this respect and contrasting it with the strict fidelity of the Pagans to their superstition.

“… Upright men strove to stem the tide, but in spite of all their efforts, the apostasy went on, until the church, with the exception of a small remnant, was submerged under pagan superstition. That Christmas was originally a pagan festival is beyond all doubt. The time of the year, and the ceremonies with which it is still celebrated, prove its origin.

“Also, in Egypt, the son of Isis was born at this very time, ‘about the time of the winter solstice.’ The very name by which Christmas is popularly known among ourselves — Yule-day — proves at once its pagan and Babylonian origin. ‘Yule’ is the Chaldean name for an ‘infant’ or ‘little child’;  and as the 25th of December was called by pagan Anglo-Saxons, ‘Yule-day,’ or the ‘Child’s day.’ The night that preceded it became known as ‘Mother-night,’ long before (380–362 BC) they came in contact with Christianity. This sufficiently proves the real reason December 25 was selected.”

“Christmas is a time for ‘giving up’ sin, bad habits, and selfish pleasures.  Christmas is a time for ‘giving in’ and surrendering to Christ and accepting Him as King.  Christmas is a time for ‘giving out,’ real giving and not swapping.”

An Opportune Time
Oliver B. Greene

Christmas is a depressing time for many people. An article written by a director of the California Department of Mental Hygiene warned: “The Christmas season is marked by greater emotional stress and more acts of violence than any other time of the year.”

Christmas is an excuse to get drunk, have a party, get something, give a little, leave work, get out of school, spend money, overeat, and all kinds of other excesses. But, for the real church, Christmas is an excuse for us to exalt Jesus Christ in the face of a world that is at least tuned in to His name.

“The message of Christmas is that the visible material world is bound to the invisible, spiritual world.”


Jesus Came Anyway
Oliver B. Greene

Sherwood Wirt captured the mood of that first Christmas in this description, which he wrote in a Christmas card: “The people of that time were being heavily taxed, and faced every prospect of a sharp increase to cover expanding military expenses. The threat of world domination by a cruel, ungodly, power-intoxicated band of men was ever just below the threshold of consciousness.

Moral deterioration had corrupted the upper levels of society and was moving rapidly into the broad base of the populace. Intense nationalistic feeling was clashing openly with new and sinister forms of imperialism. Conformity was the spirit of the age. Government handouts were being used with increasing lavishness to keep the population from rising up and throwing out the leaders. Interest rates were spiraling upward in the midst of an inflated economy. External religious observances were considered a political asset, and abnormal emphasis was being placed upon sports and athletic competition. Racial tensions were at the breaking point.”

In such a time, and amid such a people, a child was born to a couple who had just signed up for a fresh round of taxation and were soon to become political exiles. The born child was called, among other things, Immanuel, God with us.

“Selfishness makes Christmas a burden; love makes it a delight.”


The First and Last Time He Comes
Oliver B. Greene

The Lord Jesus Christ, whom we exalt especially at Christmas, is not just a baby in a manger. He is not a character in a children’s story. He is far more.

  • The first time He came, He came veiled in the form of a child. The next time He comes, and we believe it will be soon, He will come unveiled, and it will be abundantly and immediately clear to all the world just who He really is.
  • The first time He came, wise men and shepherds brought Him gifts. The next time He comes, He will bring gifts, rewards for His own.
  • The first time He came, there was no room for Him.  The next time He comes, the whole world will not be able to contain His glory.
  • The first time He came, only a few attended His arrival. The next time He comes, every eye shall see Him.
  • The first time He came as a baby. Soon He will come as Sovereign King and Lord.

“The hinge of history is on the door of a Bethlehem stable.” 
— Ralph W. Stockman

The Bible View #837 — Fighting Our Battles

In This Issue:
A Battle Rages

Volume: 837    December 6, 2021
Theme: Fighting Battles

FREE Printable versions of THE BIBLE VIEW (including large print and church bulletin inserts) are available at https://www.openthoumineeyes.com/.

All should read the Bible daily!  While at your computer,  go to www.DevotionsFromTheBible.com and read a chapter each day, and learn something from what you read. SIGN-UP to have the FREE devotion e-mailed (M-Sat.) and read a devotion and KJV chapter at your computer.

A Battle Rages
Bill Brinkworth

“Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places….” Ephesians 6:11-13

“Christian, be careful. Get out of harm’s way.  Don’t you see or hear what the enemy is doing out there?  A battle surrounds us. Stay with me in this safer place. Believers need to stick together in times of trouble.
“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” Heb. 10:25

“You can’t see it? Why open your eyes, man! Can’t you hear it? Why we’re facing a frontal attack.  The enemy is aiming right at you.  They’re trying to get us to doubt our faith.  They’re throwing everything they have at us.

“Why, can’t you hear the fellow over there trying to get you to quit because you don’t have a chance and that you are outnumbered?  That guy way over there is even questioning if you are a Christian. He must know you because he is shouting that he has watched you and believes you are acting more like his side than a Christian. 

“You are a child of God, aren’t you?  You have been saved? You do know that just going to church doesn’t make you a Christian?

“Well, I thought so, but I was just checking and making sure you knew that for sure.  When those on the other side lob insults and hurl more doubts, you will need to be certain you’re a child of God and on the winning side.
“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” I Cor. 15:58
“For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;” Heb. 3:14

“Oh no. Turn around. Some of who we thought were on our side are attacking us from the rear.  Why, they even claim to be born-again.  That fellow charging behind us attended my church.  Now he’s ganging up on us, too!
“Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.”  Eph. 6:6
“For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.” II Cor. 11:13

“They’re showing us their true colors.  They never were one of us.  That must be why they only acted ‘Christian’ on Sunday, but acted like the world the rest of the week. Why they’re shouting the same things we’re hearing from the frontal assault.  Ignore, them brother.  If they learn anything from us, it should be that a Christian is “Christian’ all the time and that we will not back down from our convictions.

“Look out! I can’t believe it.  Now we’re being flanked on the right. Get really low because they’re launching temptations, and they’re coming our way.  Don’t look because the flash of some of what they want us to see will be etched in our minds, and those thoughts are hard to forget.  That missile that landed behind us was loaded with filth; it’s a good thing we were looking in a different direction.
“I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.” Psalm 101:3

“We’re being attacked from the front, rear, and even our flanks that we never expected to be breached.  But don’t get discouraged, warrior.  We are on the winning side.  We have weapons far superior to theirs. For every projectile hurled at us, counter it with the promises from our great Commander.  His Words are the only truths.  When the enemy hears His Words, they sometimes get mad and confused.  Often, they never heard such truths that go against all they have ever been told.
“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Heb. 4:12

“Several times, I have replied to their sneers and accusations with His great words, and the advancing army stopped dead in their tracks.  Some became confused and did not know what to do next.  Some shook their heads and retreated.  His Word is a powerful weapon.

“Do you have a copy?  You do, but you don’t know where it is?  Here, use mine.  It is well worn, but it has all the answers for every attack you will ever face.

“No, you can’t keep it, but you can use it while we are under attack.  It is my old friend, and I cherish and rely on it.  Many of its principles are stored in my heart.  When I face predicaments like this, they automatically come to mind in my time of need. They always guide me through these battles.

“Our Commander is also the greatest warrior that ever lived.  He promised that even when all looks bleak that we would be victorious.  Onward we must attack with the weapons He has issued us.  When He gives the Word, we will move. For now, we must resist the attacks and fight them with His Truths.  Be steadfast, unmovable.   We will persevere!
“Ye shall observe to do therefore as the LORD your God hath commanded you: ye shall not turn aside to the right hand or to the left.” Deut. 5:32

“Oh my.  The enemy is not giving up.  Now’s he’s air-dropping more discouragements.  Their bombardment by radio waves and television programs won’t sway me.  I will not look or hear the wicked things they put before my ears and eyes, nor should you. Keep your eyes on the attack and don’t let yourself be distracted.
“Be ye therefore very courageous to keep and to do all that is written in the book of the law of Moses, that ye turn not aside there from to the right hand or to the left;” Joshua 23:6
“… 21 And turn ye not aside: for then should ye go after vain things, which cannot profit nor deliver; for they are vain.” I Sam. 12:20-21

“Hang in there, Christian.  It looks like we’re surrounded, but still, our commanding officer has a plan.  He is not idle.  Wait patiently until He gives the Word! You may not see Him, but our great Leader has also sent a great Comforter, and as we speak, He is doing something to help and protect us.  He may even be working in the minds of our enemies to turn them to His side.  The Comforter has done that many, many times.
“For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. 9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Gal. 6:8

“Although you think it is just you and me in this trench, we are not alone. We can talk to our great Leader, and He will hear our pleas wherever we are.

“No, we don’t have a radio for communications.  We don’t need one.  We can talk to Him right now. Here, join me as we bow our heads in respect and call upon his help. I told you our Commander was the greatest.”

Both soldiers bowed their heads and pleaded for their leader’s mercy and help in their time of need. They shared their greatest fears and feelings with their unseen Protector.

After their time of fellowship with their unseen Leader, the two warriors continued to engage the enemy.  Soon, something unbelievable happened. 

The attacks of the enemy halted as quickly as they started. A great silence cloaked the area where previously confusion, temptations, and mayhem rained upon the faithful men.  The two battle-worn infantrymen poked up their heads from their places of safety to see why there was suddenly silence. 

To their amazement, they saw the enemy fleeing, but it was unclear why their adversaries retreated.  It did not appear anyone was pursuing them.  Perhaps the enemies pulled back to attack other Christians, hoping they are weaker than those they had just faced.  Perhaps they were frightened or confused. The two may never know why the calm, but they were sure the conflict had ended.

However, one can be assured that the battle may have been won, but the war continues. Somewhere and somehow, the enemy is attacking other soldiers of the Great Commander. 

Often there are casualties.  At other times, there are not. But still, the war rages.  The next battle may be close to or involve you. Are you armed and ready for action? 

The war will continue until one day our Great Leader no longer tests and seasons His followers and ends the battle forever!  There will one day be an end to this great battle between the forces of good and evil.  Until then, which side will you be on, or will you retreat?
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” I Peter 5:8
“Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory.” Eph. 3:13
“For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.” II Cor. 4:16

“Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.” 
I Timothy 6:12

The Bible View #836 — Trials & Tribulations

In This Issue:
“Why, Oh Lord?”
After the Trial
Cleansing Afflictions
Learned Sympathy
Made More Compassionate

Volume: 836    November 29, 2021
Theme: Trials and Tribulations

FREE Printable versions of THE BIBLE VIEW (including large print and church bulletin inserts) are available at https://www.openthoumineeyes.com/.

All should read the Bible daily!  While at your computer,  go to www.DevotionsFromTheBible.com and read a chapter each day, and learn something from what you read. SIGN-UP to have the FREE devotion e-mailed (M-Sat.) and read a devotion and KJV chapter at your computer.


“Why, Oh Lord?”
Bill Brinkworth

“And Gideon said unto him, Oh my Lord, if the LORD be with us, why then is all this befallen us? and where be all his miracles which our fathers told us of, saying, Did not the LORD bring us up from Egypt? but now the LORD hath forsaken us, and delivered us into the hands of the Midianites.” Judges 6:13

When an angel of the Lord spoke to Gideon, God’s messenger told Gideon that the Lord was with him. Gideon recalled the state of his country, Israel. He knew that the enemy, the Midianites, had destroyed their crops and flocks (Judges 6:4).  Gideon and his nation were in a terrible situation. After hearing the message, he questioned what the angel said to him.  He wondered if the Lord was with him, then why were all the terrible things happening to him and his country?

In this situation, God’s hand of protection was off the country because they were involved in idolatry (Judges 6:10).  God used the Midianites to get Israel to a place where they would again turn to God and call on Him (Judges 6:6-7). Although the nation was involved in sin, and God was disciplining Israel, God was still with His people.

We need to realize this today.  Although a saved person is a child of God, whom He promises never to “… leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Heb. 13:5), a wayward Christian may get to where God has to chastise him.  Also, a person’s indwelling Holy Spirit may be grieved (Eph. 4:30, I Thes. 5:19) and not working in a person’s life like He wants to, but God will not desert the person.
“For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.” Prov.3:12

Too many wonder, as Gideon did, “Why is God allowing this to happen to me?”  Often, they feel left alone without His help. They feel abandoned. Most of us have had times our faith was weak, and we doubted and wondered about our situation, as did Gideon. 

However, there are many reasons God allows us to go through difficulties, other than being disciplined, as was Israel.  Some of those reasons include:

  • To be an encouraging example to others as they observe how a Christian handles an unpleasant situation.
    “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; 4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.” II Cor 1:3-4
  • To put us in a position where the Lord wants us in the future.  Joseph was an example of this.  God allowed many misfortunes to happen in the man’s life, so he could help his family and others when famine came to their country. Many times closed doors in our life move us to the open door God desires us to go through.
  • For us to see the mighty hand of God meet needs in our life.  Trials and tribulations bring us to a point where we call on Him more and focus on seeing His help and intervention in our lives. When we see His help, our faith is strengthened to face future problems. Hardships are an essential method to get us to grow spiritually! Our trust and reliance grow when we see Him work in our lives.
  • Being a Christian does not mean that you will not face problems.  It’s just life! This is a sinful world, and all suffer because of iniquities.
    “That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.” Mat. 5:45

If you are going through a difficult time and wonder as Gideon did, examine your life.  Is it possible that you are in the situation because you are in a wayward condition? A first step in going through a hard time is to rule out if your behavior or spiritual condition has anything to do with your situation.  If it does, earnest prayer may reveal it to you.  Quick obedience to any conviction and repentance is what the Lord wants from us in such circumstances.

If no conviction is stirred or past offenses do not come to mind, your situation may be for a completely different reason or divine purpose.  Not all problems are God’s judgment on your life. Sometimes God reveals the reason for the trial; sometimes, He does not.  Whatever the reason, one should immediately draw closer to Him and wait for Him to do His will in your life.
“Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.” James 4:8

 “Often, affliction is God’s shepherd dog to drive us back to the fold.”
— Megiddo


After the Trial
Brooks

God afflicts us for our profit that we might be partakers of His holiness. The flowers smell sweetest after a shower.  Vines bear better after trimming. The walnut tree is most fruitful when shaken. Children of God grow and thrive when they are afflicted.

Afflictions are the mother of virtue. Manasseh’s chain was more profitable to him than his crown. Luther could not understand some scriptures till he was in affliction. Christ’s cross was no letter, yet it taught more than all the letters and books ever did.

God’s house of correction is His school of instruction. All the stones that came about Stephen’s head did but bring him closer to Christ. The waves lifted Noah’s ark nearer to Heaven. Afflictions lift the soul to rich, clear, and full enjoyments of God.

God makes afflictions to be but inlets to the soul’s more sweet and full enjoyment of Him. When was it that Stephen saw the heavens open and Christ standing at the right hand of God, but when the stones were thrown at him?  Then there was but a short step betwixt him and eternity.

When did God appear in glory to Jacob?  It was in the day of his troubles when stones were his pillows, the ground his bed, the hedges his curtains, and the heavens his canopy?  Then he saw the angels of God ascending and descending in their glittering robes.

Hard times often bring us closer to God and allow us to see His power and glory.

 “Sometimes God makes his people’s troubles contribute to the increase of their greatness, and their sun shines the brighter for having been under a cloud. — Henry


Cleansing Afflictions
Beecher

There are some troubles that beat us down. Some situations give a stimulus to our minds and lift us up to a closer relationship with God. Have you not, in the great hours of sorrow —  not in the despairing hours of suffering, not in the degrading hours of despair, not in the sordid hours in which sorrow drags you in its slime — but in those hours in which you feel you are a son of God under affliction, that this world is not your abiding place, and that your home is the eternity of God?  Have you felt that the world to come was opened as it had never been before in those hours and that God’s glory shone as it had never shone before? Have you never, in those hours, felt that those doubts and skepticisms which pestered your mind had been swept away?

In the insect-breeding days of summer, how insects abound!  Every tree is a harbor for stinging pests. Wherever you sit, they swarm around, and annoy you, and destroy your peace and comfort.

Soon vast floods of clouds bring tornadoes and are thunder-voiced through the valleys. Then over the hills and mountains sweep drenching and cleansing rains. When the storm has ceased and the clouds are gone, you sit under the dripping tree.  Not a fly, a gnat, or an insect is to be seen. The winds and rains have driven them all away.

Has it never been so with those ten thousand little pests of pride, vanity, envying, jealousy, and unlawful desire?  For days, they have teased and fretted you.  They kept you busy with conscience, taste, affection, and all the higher faculties until God sent upon you some great searching sorrow or overwhelming trouble.

There was that babe that you loved so much, and God laid your heart and baby together in the grave. He subverted your household. He brought on you such torrents of suffering that it appeared the foundations of the great deep were broken up. In those heart-wrenching days, God graciously sustained you and lifted you toward Himself.  Although you suffered unutterable affliction, you felt that it had cleansed you from jealousies, envies, vanity, pride, the entire swarm of venomous and stinging insects that had beset you,


Learned Sympathy
W. M. Taylor

One night, wandering the streets of London in disguise, King Henry the Eighth was met at a bridge by some guards.  Because of not giving a good account of what he was doing out at night, the King was locked up in Poultry Compter without any fire, candle, or food. On being released from prison, he made a grant of thirty chaldrons of coals and a quantity of bread for the night prisoners in the Compter.

Experience brings sympathy as it did to the King. Those who have felt sharp afflictions, terrible convictions, racking doubts, and violent temptations will be zealous in consoling those in a similar condition. Our experience of such difficult times can help us be a blessing and an encouragement to those now facing similar trials.


Made More Compassionate
Downame, 1644

By these afflictions, we are made more compassionate unto others who endure like hardships. Those that have been sick are apt to pity those whom they see pained with the like diseases. Those who have been imprisoned are more compassionate and helpful in relieving those who are restrained. They who have been pinched with penury and pined with hunger do pity them in the situation they once were.

This was one end why God allowed our Saviour so many afflictions so that He might have compassion on them that are also faced with tremendous trials and tribulations

 “It is the crushed grape that gives out the blood-red juice. it is the suffering soul that breathes the sweetest melodies.”   — Hamilton

The Bible View #834 — God Is in Control!

In This Issue:
It’s Under God’s Control
How Long?
My God Reigneth
How Peace Was Won

Volume: 834    November 1, 2021
Theme: God’s Will and Way

FREE Printable versions of THE BIBLE VIEW (including large print and church bulletin inserts) are available at https://www.openthoumineeyes.com/.

All should read the Bible daily!  While at your computer,  go to www.DevotionsFromTheBible.com and read a chapter each day, and learn something from what you read. SIGN-UP to have the FREE devotion e-mailed (M-Sat.) and read a devotion and KJV chapter at your computer.

It’s Under God’s Control
Bill Brinkworth

When reading of current events, seeing how society is morally declining, and hearing of one tragedy after another, it can be very discouraging.  It sometimes seems chaos surrounds us and is gaining a foothold closer to us each day.

Politicians, particularly liberals, are no longer backing common sense and the apparent betterment of those they represent. Public education seems to enforce and encourage their charges to grasp godless theories and thinking.  A media that was once expected to expose the truth and help preserve law-abiding has also accepted and joined to move society against godly behavior and force heathen philosophies on the public. Too often, it seems there is little order and only destruction on society’s horizon. Hope for a promising future appears to be disappearing daily.

Stop right there!  Be not deceived.  As the beginning words of a hymn remind us, “The Lord reigneth.”  Most of us do not understand why such changes in society are allowed, but we can be assured God is still in control.  He knows exactly what is going on.  He knows who is lying.  He knows who is deceiving.  Our God knows all about the greed that motivates so many.  None of what is going on is a surprise to Him.
“The LORD reigneth, he is clothed with majesty; the LORD is clothed with strength, wherewith he hath girded himself: the world also is stablished, that it cannot be moved.” Psalm 93:1 

God uses many horrific actions and attitudes that we see for society’s eventual betterment and to accomplish what He has planned to happen from the beginning.  From the Genesis flood to what will happen in the future (Revelation 19:6), God has and will use those events, as wicked as they often seem, for His purpose. Despite what our leaders, media, and other influences believe, God reigneth!  Nothing happens without His allowing it for His purposes.
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28  Also: II Tim. 1:9.

“He who counts the stars and calls them by their names is in no danger of forgetting His children.”   — C. H. Spurgeon



How Long?
Bill Brinkworth

Psalm 94:3, and many others, question the same thing. How long are the wicked going to get away with their sin?  We see and hear so many in blatant disregard for God’s moral laws and His desired behaviors.  It is often wondered how some get away with the terrible things they are doing.
“LORD, how long shall the wicked, how long shall the wicked triumph?” Psalm 94:3

The answer is, they will not get away with their sin.  The payday for iniquity will come someday.  It may be today; it may be ten years from now.  They may appear unscathed by their wrong-doing in this life.  However, we have God’s promise that in the next, they will stand before a judge, who will issue a verdict they will fear and which will cause them to regret their past actions.

As I have told many Sunday school classes, no one gets away with sinning against God.  True to that biblical promise, I have seen many sinners pay the price for their wrong-doing that they never thought they would pay.  The wage for their offense against God came after the transgression and brought grief and regret that lasted much of their lives.

When raising my daughter, I remember her observation of one in our church that regularly sinned. One day, she commented, “See, so-and-so is doing this and that, but nothing is happening to them.”

My reply was, “Be patient.  They won’t get away with it.” Sure enough, a time came, several years later, that they received the wage for the transgression they had sown, and it was devastating. 

God is the judge, and nothing escapes His scrutiny.  Vengeance is His, and He will receive it (Psalm 94:1-2). All wrong-doing will be dealt with (Psalm 94:4-6).

A sinner may think their iniquity escaped the eye of the Lord, but it did not (Psalm 94:7-10).  He even knows our thoughts (Psalm 94:11), so there is no escaping sin’s consequences.  With this in mind, it is prudent and wise to flee iniquity and get as far away from it as possible.
“And he shall bring upon them their own iniquity, and shall cut them off in their own wickedness; yea, the LORD our God shall cut them off.” Psalm 94:23
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” Galatians 6:7

“It is much easier to repent of sins that we have committed than to repent of those we intend to commit.” — Billings


My God Reigneth
Bill Brinkworth

No matter the chaos and troubles about us, God is still in control.  Often, what we see as a terrible situation is God’s means to turn people to Him, teach others a lesson, punish sin, or accomplish His will and way.

Some of the biblical proofs confirming He reigns on this Earth are:

God (John 10:30) reigned over His creation.
When the raging waves threatened a ship and the crew’s safety, Jesus bestilled the waters.
“And he [Jesus] was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow… 39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.”  Mark 4:38-39  Also: Mat. 8:26, Luke 8:24.
“He rebuked the Red sea also, and it was dried up: so he led them through the depths, as through the wilderness.” Psalm 106:9  [Rebuke: to sternly correct (often exhibiting authority over the one being corrected), to restrain, to put to shame]

He reigneth over the ungodly.
“Thou hast rebuked the heathen, thou hast destroyed the wicked, thou hast put out their name for ever and ever.” Psalm 9:5
“Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed, which do err from thy commandments.” Psalm 119:21

He reigneth over demonic influences.
“And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour.” Matthew 17:18
“And as he was yet a coming, the devil threw him down, and tare him. And Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child, and delivered him again to his father.” Luke 9:42   Also: Mark 9:25.

He reigneth over the weak.
“But when he had turned about and looked on his disciples, he rebuked Peter, saying, Get thee behind me, Satan: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men.” Mark 8:33  Also: Luke 9:55.

He reigneth over health problems.
“And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever; and it left her: and immediately she arose and ministered unto them.” Luke 4:39

He reigneth over His own.
“And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:” Hebrews. 12:5

“One God helping is more than all men opposing.” — Joseph Caryl



How Peace Was Won
Author Unknown

With eager heart and will on fire,
I sought to win my great desire.
“Peace shall be mine,” I said. But life
Grew bitter in the endless strife.

My soul was weary, and my pride
Was wounded deep. To Heaven, I cried,
“God give me peace, or I must die.”
The dumb stars glittered no reply.

Broken, at last, I bowed my head
Forgetting all myself, and said,
“Whatever comes, His will be done,”
And at that moment, peace was won.”

The Bible View #832 —The Indwelling Holy Spirit

In This Issue:
The Indwelling Holy Spirit
Keep the Temple Clean
Reasons Why the Believer Should be Holy

Volume: 832    October 18, 2021
Theme: The Indwelling Spirit of God


The Indwelling Holy Spirit
Bill Brinkworth

“For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.” Psalm 84:10

At the time of Psalm 84, there were still tabernacles ( perhaps “tabernacles” was plural because, as one tabernacle was in disrepair, it was repaired or replaced. It could have also referred to the places of reflection built during the Feast of the Tabernacles). The temple must have existed, and perhaps it was being constructed as it had become a home (Psalm 84:3) for nesting sparrows.

For the Jews, the Tabernacle or Temple was where they met God. Those places were where He visited His people.  It was also where Israel could be physically closer to God.  Because of the nearness of their God, it was a special place.

The writer declares it was a friendly place (Psalm 84 — “amiable”).  He was overwhelmed (Psalm 84:2) to be where God had been and where His commandments were obeyed.  He envied the sparrows that built their nest amongst the structures and lived near God. He even felt those dedicated to service for the Lord and dwelt amongst (Psalm 84:4) the buildings were also fortunate.  The Psalm writer realized it was a blessed place (Psalm 84:4-7).

Today, we do not have a physical building where God dwells.  The Spirit of God lives in every believer.  If we are saved, we are the Temple of the living God, and we should be as excited and encouraged as was the writer of Psalm 84 when he was in the Temple.
“Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?  17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.” I Cor. 3:16-17
“And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” II Cor. 6:16-18  Also: Ephesians 2:21-22, Hebrews 3:6, I Peter 2:5.

Think about it for a minute! Selah!  The Holy Spirit of God lives inside of you, Christian.  He loves you so much that He does not want to live far away from you.  He has chosen to live inside of you!

With that closeness of God should come special excitement, as the Psalm writer experienced.  However, with the nearness of our God, we should make sure our “Temple” is swept clean of dirty sin that God hates. It is good to be so close to God, but it comes with an awesome responsibility to be far from sin and obedient to what a Holy God expects of us.

“Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.”   I Peter 1:16


Keep the Temple Clean
Bill Brinkworth

I had waited a long time to spend the weekend with my friend. Finally, the time had arrived. After being dropped off by my mother, with a suitcase and sleeping bag in hand, I was ready for the games to begin!

Up the steps, my buddy guided me to where I was to sleep. As the door creaked open, I was aghast at the sleeping quarters where I was to spend the next couple of nights. Clutter, mess, and filth would also be my bedfellows if I were to spend the night in that bedroom.

Dirty, tattered curtains blocked most of the light filtering through the windows. I wondered if they had ever been washed since they were installed.

Strips of wallpaper curled off the wall, exposing its paste that clusters of roaches were feasting upon. Spider webs laced across most of the corners and crevices. Clothes lay where they fell after they were removed. I was not sure, but I was positive I saw a dirty sock move slightly across the dusty, stained rug under its power. A smell of armpits, sweat, and filth permeated from unwashed clothes and bedding. It was not a place that I would relish spending the night.

As politely as I could manage, I complained, “I really want to spend the weekend with you. We could have such a good time together, but to be honest with you, um, this room is too filthy for me to even sleep in. I would not be comfortable here.”

My host surveyed his room and agreed with a nod that it was a mess.

“If I am to stay here, we’ve got to clean it up,” I suggested.

He was agreeable, and soon we were both working together to clean his room. Curtains, clothing, and bedding were washed more than once. Pests were sprayed and removed. Windows were washed. Walls were wiped. Floors were vacuumed and scrubbed.

After much hard work, the room was spotless. It even smelled clean and fresh. It was now a room where I could comfortably sleep.

When a person gets saved, that person becomes the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. He becomes a living “temple” where the Spirit of God indwells.
“Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? ”I Corinthians 3:16
“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” I Corinthians 6:19

As I and others would not be comfortable in such a filthy environment as was my friend’s room, so the Holy Spirit is not comfortable with His dwelling place in many lives. The spiritual uncleanliness that displeases Him and stifles His working in our lives is our sin. 

When a person is first saved, the voice of the Holy Spirit whispers to his heart to work on eliminating sin. For each person, the Holy Spirit’s directions to clean up his “temple” are different. It may be lying or a drinking problem that the Holy Spirit urges the child of God first to eliminate for the Spirit to be comfortable enough to work in his life. For others, it may be the sin of adultery, deceitfulness, cheating, or gossiping that He demands to be stricken from the “temple” of the Living Spirit.
“And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” II Corinthians 6:16
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” Romans 12:1

Too many disregard, disobey, or ignore the convicting voice of the Holy Spirit to remove sin from their lives. In doing so, they grieve the Holy Spirit of God. Not doing as He commands is the same as telling him, “No!”. He does not leave, but He becomes silent. That is why so many people that were saved never do much or are used by God. The Holy Spirit insisted they clean up their “temple,” and they refused to do so. A dirty “temple” will never bring honor to God, nor will it be used by God.
“Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.” Romans 6:13

All that are saved have many sins in their lives that need to be cleaned out. The Holy Spirit is so gracious that He does not demand they all be cleaned up at once. One by one, He will point them out and help us clean up where only He knows the “filth” is hiding.

Is there an area in your life that God’s Spirit is urging you to clean up? You will never be perfect and sin-free, but you can be a cleaner “temple” that can bring honor and glory to God.

“I believe the holier a man becomes, the more he mourns over the unholiness that remains in him.”   — Spurgeon


Reasons Why the Believer Should be Holy
Edited from 500 Bible Readings, Marsh

  • Because of who God is.
    “The LORD is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works.” Psalm 145:17
    “Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD your God am holy.” Lev. 19:2
  • Because He commands it: Lev. 19:2.
  • Because of His relationship with us.
    “Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God.” Lev. 20:7
  • Because of His choice of us.
    “And ye shall be holy unto me: for I the LORD am holy, and have severed you from other people, that ye should be mine.” Lev. 20:26
  • Because of our relationship with Him.
    “They shall be holy unto their God, and not profane the name of their God: for the offerings of the LORD made by fire, and the bread of their God, they do offer: therefore they shall be holy.” Lev. 21:6

“Holiness is not the way to Christ.  Christ is the way to holiness.”  — Spurgeon

The Bible View #831 — Decisions

In This Issue:
Decisions and Their Cost
Spurgeon’s Right Decision
Nothing Less Than the Best
At His Mercy
How Livingston Took a Criticism

Volume: 831    October 11, 2021
Theme: Decisions

FREE Printable versions of THE BIBLE VIEW (including large print and church bulletin inserts) are available at https://www.openthoumineeyes.com/.

All should read the Bible daily!  While at your computer,  go to www.DevotionsFromTheBible.com and read a chapter each day, and learn something from what you read. SIGN-UP to have the FREE devotion e-mailed (M-Sat.) and read a devotion and KJV chapter at your computer.



Decisions and Their Cost
Bill Brinkworth

What makes the difference between a strong Christian and a weak one?  Much of the time, it is a Christian making the right decisions, sticking with convictions, and, as a result, growing spiritually.

The pastor of a church usually made the right decision in his life.  He had to make the right choice of going to church, attending Sunday school, not working on Wednesday night so he could attend services, reading his Bible, and daily praying.  After showing himself faithful with what God wanted him to do, God knew He could trust the man with further tasks. 

Somewhere in that man’s life, God spoke to him about full-time service and serving the Lord.  The man not only heard His call, but obeyed the summons and sacrificed whatever it took to please the Lord.  He, too, may have been tempted financially to work another job rather than trust God with what little he earned, so he would be available to preach and pastor. The right decisions were made.

One of the most spiritual people you know most likely also came to similar decisions in their life and chose the right, godly direction.  Few wake up one morning and say, “I will be spiritual today from now on,” and it instantly happens.  One’s faith and obedience to God grows as testings strengthen that person.

Most likely, the person had a choice of prosperity and a tempting opportunity, but chose the direction of serving and living for God.  No matter the cost or how their life would deviate from their desires, they made the right choice that they would not regret.

Perhaps the one seeking to serve the Lord faced medical trials where he put his faith in God above physical limitations. Maybe ridicule of family or friends about his faithfulness to the things of God was an obstacle that had to be battled.

However, the right decisions were made, showing the Lord that He was more important to what this temporary world offered.  Faith and obedience to God grew as the right choices were made through each trial and tribulation that was faced.

Sunday school teachers had to make the right decisions.  Sometime in their lives, the burden of teaching others became so important to them that the service to God as a teacher was more valuable than their own free time.  Their teaching ministry became more precious to them than their attending a football game during their study hours.  It became more precious to them than the money they had to give up to buy study material or treats for their class. Because of paying the right price their decision required, they were entrusted to be in the position they are today to be a blessing for the cause of Christ.

The faithful members of a church also made the right decisions.  They could have easily missed church, stayed home, and watched television.  However, the hearing of the Word of God and their edification in the things of God became more essential than other pleasures.

No one would have missed the church attendees if they had gone to another church because of hurt feelings.  Still, the urgency God gave them to join, take part, and attend His local assembly of believers was so needful to them that they made the right decisions not to miss services.

On and on the list could go of people who did without or did what was not convenient for them to do to please and obey God.  Obedience was most important to them.  Unfortunately, they are the minority in the body of Christ.  Too many do not have their priorities the same as the above examples.  Something in their lives became more important than God and obedience to Him.

Perhaps it was the first step after they were saved that was not crucial to them.  The young Christian also received the heart-tug to be baptized, start praying, or daily read their Bible, but something was more important to them than obedience. 

Maybe the fear of what others would think if they became “religious” scared them away from obedience to the Lord.  Possibly, they may have chosen not to sacrifice driving to church to hear the Gospel because an extra hour of sleep was more important to them.  They had the same amount of time as those previously described who obeyed and live for God.  However, they hoarded that time for themselves and decided not to make God a priority in their life.

Some may have started out making the right spiritual decisions. They may have been convicted about something God wanted them to change or do, but chose not to.  Their wrong decision to not obey the leadership of God was a blunt “No” in God’s ears. That refusal cost them further help from God.  What would be the sense of the Lord telling them other things to do if they were not doing what the Lord had already shown them to do?  Because of that wrong decision, the rest of their lives may be spent far from God, with only their self-interests being served and not God’s.

Eventually, they may find themselves far away from hearing the whisper of God’s calling in their lives.  They may still attend church, but the preacher’s words do nothing to stir them anymore. Their hardened hearts make them “used-to-be’s” or “once-I-was-gonna’s,” and now they sit and do not serve. They had the same opportunities to obey and serve as did others, but they chose the temporal rather than that which would please God and allow Him to work in their lives.  They, unfortunately, made the wrong decisions.

If you have to sadly admit you have made the wrong decisions in the past, it may not be too late to make the correct choice.  God is a second, third, or even a hundred chance God. Just the fact that you have a conviction about making wrong choices is a light showing that your heart is not completely hardened — yet.  There may still be an opportunity to make the right choices and serve God today.  Doing it tomorrow will be the wrong decision.  Saying “Yes” to God’s commandment that rings in your heart will be the right one. Decide and obey now!

“Obedience to God is the most infallible evidence of sincere and supreme love to Him.”   — Emmons



Spurgeon’s Right Decision
Good News Broadcaster

Years before the death of Spurgeon, an American lecture bureau tried to engage him to come to America and deliver fifty lectures in all the large cities of the country.  As compensation, the bureau offered to pay all of Mr. Spurgeon’s costs and the expenses of his wife and his private secretary to come with him until they returned. In addition, they would pay $1,000 per night for each of his fifty lectures. 

Mr. Spurgeon promptly declined this tempting offer to make $50,000 in fifty days, saying, “I can do better. I will stay in London and try to save fifty souls.” No wonder he succeeded so marvelously in winning souls!  No wonder that at his death, over 12,000 converts rose to bless his memory and thank God that Spurgeon ever lived!

“If you don’t walk with God, you’re walking in the wrong direction.” 



Nothing Less Than the Best
Sunday School Times

Before the 1939-45 war, a school for the children of “untouchables” in India received a shipment of Christmas presents from English children each year.  Each girl received a doll, “whose clothes took off and on,” and each boy received a toy. 

One year, Doctor Sahib from a nearby mission hospital came to distribute the presents. He told the children about a village not far away, where the children had never heard of Jesus or Christmas and suggested that they might each give one of their old toys to be taken to those children.

They readily agreed, and he came the following Sunday to receive them.  The boys and girls filed past him and handed a doll or a toy each.  It was the new presents that they gave.  When asked why, a girl said, “Think what Jesus gave for us, and what He has done for us.  Could we give Him less than our best?”



At His Mercy
Heart and Life Bulletin

George Atley, a young Englishman with the heart of a hero, was engaged in the Central African Mission. A party of natives attacked him.  He had with him a Winchester repeating rifle with ten loaded bullets in the chamber. He could have killed them all. The party was entirely at his mercy.

Calmly and quickly, the missionary summed up the situation.  He concluded killing them would do the mission more harm than if he allowed them to take his life.  So, like a lamb to the slaughter, he did not fight back. When his body was found in the stream, his rifle was also found with its ten rounds still loaded. Soul future destinies were more important than his own life.

“… and if we obey God, we must disobey ourselves …”  — Herman Melville



How Livingston Took a Criticism
Dr. Peloubet

Misjudged by a fellow missionary, Dr. Livingstone gave up his house and garden at Mabosta with all the toil and money they had cost him.  He did so rather than have any scandal before the heathen and began in a new place, building a new house, school building, and gathering the people around him. 

His colleague was so struck with his generosity that he said had he known Livingston’s intention, he would never have spoken a word against him.  Parting with his garden cost him a great pang.  “I like a garden,” he wrote, “but Paradise will make amends for all our privations here.”

Jesus Christ sacrificed also.  He gave His life on the cross so that we could live eternally.

The BibleView #830 — Baptism

In This Issue:
Baptism
A Good Feeling by Being Obedient
Baptism’s Purpose

Volume: 830    October 4, 2021
Theme: Baptism

FREE Printable versions of THE BIBLE VIEW (including large print and church bulletin inserts) are available at https://www.openthoumineeyes.com/.

All should read the Bible daily!  While at your computer,  go to www.DevotionsFromTheBible.com and read a chapter each day, and learn something from what you read. SIGN-UP to have the FREE devotion e-mailed and read a devotion and KJV chapter at your computer.


Baptism
Bill Brinkworth

One of the few ordinances commanded in the Bible is that of baptism. This one act has caused much argument, division, and even many deaths in the past. Books have been written on the subject, and serious study has been given to this subject by many.

There are three types of baptism spoken of in the New Testament. They include the baptism of the Holy Ghost, a non-water baptism dealing with Jesus’ burdens (Mat. 20:22, 23), and one where a saved person is submerged into the baptismal waters. Here are some teachings from the Bible about the third type of baptism, the baptism of one who has been spiritually born- again:

  • One should be baptized because Christ commanded it:
    “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:” Matthew 28:19
  • Water baptism is symbolic of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. When it is performed for one that has his sins forgiven after trusting in Jesus’ death on the cross for the remission of his sins, it is a perfect picture of what Jesus did for him. When the one being baptized is lowered quickly into the water, it is a picture of Jesus’ death on the cross. When He is brought up out of the water, it is a picture of His resurrection.
    “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” Romans 6:4“Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.” Colossians 2:12“When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Acts 19:5  Also: Romans 6:3, Ephesians 4:5, Galatians 3:27.
  • Baptism is not essential for salvation. In verses about salvation (as John 3:13, Romans 10:9…) baptism was never included.

    When the man that died on the cross with Jesus was saved, Christ said he would see him shortly in “paradise.” If baptism were required for salvation, he would not have gone there with Jesus.  Also, Jesus Himself was baptized. The Saviour was certainly already going “home” and did not need the commission of an ordinance to get him there. He did it because His Father commanded Him to, as we should.
  • Baptism was performed only on people after they were saved, sometimes almost immediately.
    “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.” Acts 2:41

    The Ethiopian eunuch was saved and baptized shortly thereafter:  “And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest [the context was water baptism].  And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.… ” Acts 8:37-39

    The jailor believed: “And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house… And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway ”. Acts 8:30-33
  • The early churches practiced it. It was performed in Jerusalem, the desert (Acts 8:36), and Paul and members of the early church were baptized.


The Greek New Testament word for baptism is “baptizmo.” That word means “immersion.”  One hundred and two times in the New Testament, that term is used.  It always indicates a saved person being put down into the water and brought back up.  In most instances, it was performed in a river, sea, or nearby water source.

Baptism by sprinkling with water (“christening”), rather than submerging into the water, is not mentioned in the Bible. That unscriptural practice, by some accounts, was performed as early as 150 A.D. and was widely accepted by Catholicism (by Emperor Constantine) in the early 300’s A.D.  Over 100 years later, many believe sprinkling of babies was widely practiced.  It is the unbiblical practice of “christening” that many religions have adopted as “baptism”  and perform even today.

The christening of babies violates the commands of God and does not portray the picture of what Christ did for them on the cross. All references to baptisms were to men and women, not infants. Not one christened baby ever knew what was happening to him and certainly did not understand that Jesus died and rose again for him, which is most important to the one being scripturally baptized. No baby ever understood that he was a sinner. If a person was christened, they should still be baptized when they get saved if they want to please the Lord.

Baptism does not add to salvation, nor does it “wash away” sins. If this were true, every rain or bath would cleanse a person from sin. It is an ordinance that shows other believers one is born-again and obedient to what God commands. It is boldly donning the uniform of a Christian as a testimony. Baptism is an early step a believer takes to show obedience and willingness to obey God’s commandments.

“Obedience to God is the most infallible evidence of sincere and supreme love for him.”  — Emmons


A Good Feeling by Being Obedient
Bill Brinkworth

“The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: 22 Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.” I Peter 3:21-22

The doctrine of baptism has been a subject of much debate for a long time. To a Bible believer, the issue is quite clear; one is saved and then baptized by immersion.  Others abide by the unbiblical christening ceremony that Constantine encouraged when he attempted to merge paganism with Christianity by mass-christening.   Some even hold that baptism washes away sins. 

This verse in I Peter 3:21 may give many the impression that baptism does “save us.” However, if the context of the scripture is examined, it is clear that baptism has nothing to do with being saved from the penalty of sin.

In parentheses, verse 21 clearly states that baptism does not put away sins (“the filth of the flesh”). However, baptism gives us a good conscience toward God. It makes us feel good to do what we are told (“good conscience”). Having a “good conscience” was also brought up in the previous vs. 16.

Baptism does not save a person, but what does is obedience to God’s commandments.  In Noah’s case, building the ark physically saved him and his family (I Peter 3:20).  In our case, salvation is obtained by obeying God in trusting Christ’s death and resurrection (I Peter 3:21).

Before salvation, a believer has often run from obeying God and certainly did not do what God wanted him to do.  After salvation, baptism is one of the first steps of obedience that a believer demonstrates to God.  A believer can have a clear conscience in knowing that he is finally obeying God.  He shows others, and the watching Lord, when he is baptized, he remembers Jesus died, rose again for him and Jesus is now his Saviour.

“Baptism is an outward expression of an inward faith.”  — Watchman Nee


Baptism’s Purpose
A. Hodge, 1871

Baptism signifies, seals, and conveys to one to whom he belongs. The act symbolizes “the washing of regeneration” and “the renewing of the Holy Ghost” (Titus 3:5), which unites the believer to Christ. It makes him a participant in Christ’s life and all other benefits.
“For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.” I Cor. 12:13
“For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” Gal. 3:27
“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;” Titus 3:5

Baptism is a visible sign of our covenant to be the Lord’s.  It shows others we have accepted His salvation and desire to consecrate ourselves to His service.  It is a badge of our public profession, showing our willingness to be separate from the world, and our admittance intos the family of believers.  This badge marks us as belonging to the Lord and consequently distinguishes us from the world (I Cor. 12:13).

“A man who knows that he is saved by believing in Christ does not, when he is baptized, lift his baptism into a saving ordinance. In fact, he is the very best protester against that mistake because he holds that he has no right to be baptized until he is saved.”  — Charles Spurgeon

THE BIBLE VIEW #829 — Peer Pressure

In This Issue:
Peer Pressure — the other guy “made” me do it!
Can’t Please Everybody
The Two Brothers
The Need of Many Churches
Value of the Church

Volume: 829    September 27, 2021
Theme: Peer Pressures

FREE Printable versions of THE BIBLE VIEW (including large print and church bulletin inserts) are available at https://www.openthoumineeyes.com/.

All should read the Bible daily!  While at your computer,  go to www.DevotionsFromTheBible.com and read a chapter each day, and learn something from what you read. SIGN-UP to have the FREE devotion e-mailed and read a devotion and KJV chapter at your computer.



Peer Pressure — the other guy “made” me do it!
Bill Brinkworth

Many claim an outside “force” compelled them to do things they usually would not do. Getting their peer’s approval and acceptance is that force for many.

Webster defines “peer” as an “equal; one of the same rank.”  For some, it is essential to please people, even though they are not “equals,” and really cannot do anything to force them to do what they have done.

This invisible pressure to please one’s acquaintances has always been an overwhelming force in many lives.  Here are some reasons, as illustrated by biblical characters, that the desire to have the approval of one’s peers can have such power in one’s life:

They do not want to be different. Peter, Jesus’ disciple, certainly attested to the power of peer pressure.  He was the one who planned to be loyal and faithful to Jesus when he said, “… Although all shall be offended, yet will not I”  Mark 14:29. 

However, before the rooster crowed, as Jesus had prophesied, Peter denied having anything to do with his friend and leader.  It was more important to Peter to fit in at the campfire of strangers than to be publicly identified with God’s only Son.

Too many have been led by similar pressure.  They have sold out their testimony and future to “fit in” and be like everyone else.  Selling out for social acceptance is usually temporary and has to be performed repeatedly for each group it is important to “fit in.”  It is not long until a person has molded himself to please so many groups that he does not know who he is anymore.

They want to make others happy. Pilate succumbed to peer pressure when the rantings of a mob convinced him to have the Saviour put to death.
“And they cried out again, Crucify him. Then Pilate said unto them, Why, what evil hath he done? And they cried out the more exceedingly, Crucify him. And so Pilate, willing to content the people, released Barabbas unto them, and delivered Jesus, when he had scourged him, to be crucified.” Mark 15:13-15 

Pilate allowed mob rule to cloud his judgment.  His wrong decision helped put the nails into the body of God’s only Son.  Many of us have also done things to make others happy, only to find that happiness is temporary as long as we do what others want.  Later, we have to live with the side effects from the judgments we have made, often for the rest of our lives.

They think they are outnumbered.  Instead of “winning others,” they are joining with them. Aaron was swayed by peer pressure when the people of God commanded him to make false idols.  He gave in to the pressure of the opposing multitudes rather than doing right in God’s eyes.
“And Moses said unto Aaron, What did this people unto thee, that thou hast brought so great a sin upon them… For they said unto me, Make us gods, which shall go before us:…”  Exodus 32:21-23

No matter if “everyone” is doing wrong, it does not make it right for us to do likewise.  We should do what pleases God, if it is popular or not.

They blame others for their wrongdoing.  For many, the reason for their not doing the righteous thing is that others “forced” them to do contrary to what God requires. Saul revealed his weakness to peer pressure when he insisted the people made him disobey God:
“Now go and smite Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and spare them not; but slay both man and woman, … And Samuel said, What meaneth then this bleating of the sheep in mine ears, and the lowing of the oxen which I hear?  And Saul said, They have brought them from the Amalekites: for the people spared the best of the sheep and of the oxen, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God; and the rest we have utterly destroyed.” I Samuel 15:3-15

Saul was the leader.  It was his responsibility to lead the people in obeying God. Unless one is physically forced into doing what is wrong, which rarely is the reason, it is up to us to do what God expects us to do.  We are the ones that are responsible for our actions.

It has become common to blame the environment, surroundings, people, or circumstances for our actions. Too many have become “victims” and think they are not responsible for their actions.

According to God’s Word, each is responsible for his actions. Our excuses for not doing right in God’s eyes and according to His Word do not take away from the fact that wrong is still wrong.  The pressures felt from our peers do not give us any permission to disobey what God commands us to do. Each of us must one day give an account of our actions.
“For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.” Romans 14:11-12

“If you do things merely because you think some other fool expects you to do them, and he expects you to do them because he thinks you expect him to expect you to do them, it will end in everybody doing what nobody wants to do, which is, in my opinion, a silly state of things.”   — George Bernard Shaw



Can’t Please Everybody
Author Unknown

Mullah Nasir-Ed-Din, an ancient Persian humorist, and his son were walking along a country road behind their donkey who was contentedly nibbling grass along the way.

Seeing Mullah and his son sweating profusely, a man remarked, “Look how foolish they are, walking instead of riding.”

Hearing the remark, Mullah and his son climbed on the donkey. They rode through the next village where they heard an old man exclaim, “They ought to be ashamed, making that poor old donkey carry two riders.” Mullah dismounted and walked while the son rode the donkey to the next village.

There Mullah heard this commentary, “Poor old man!  That boy should be ashamed, making his poor, old Dad walk!”  Then Mullah got on the donkey while his son dismounted and walked for some distance.

Finally, another villager made this observation, “Look at that old man riding while his son has to walk.  How cruel!”  Mullah rubbed his beard, shook his head and said to himself, “You can’t please any of the people any of the time.”

“No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.”  — Matthew 6:24  


The Two Brothers
Gospel Herald

There were two boys in the Taylor family.  The older said he must make a name for his family and turned his face toward Parliament and fame.  The younger gave his life to the service of Christ and turned his face toward China and duty.  Hudson Taylor, the missionary, died, beloved, and known on every continent. When I looked in the encyclopedia to see what the other son had done, I found these words, “The brother of Hudson Taylor.”


The Need of Many Churches
Author Unknown

  • More workers and fewer shirkers.
  • More backers and fewer slackers.
  • More of God’s plans and less of man’s.
  • More praying and less straying.
  • More divine power and less human “pow-wow.”
  • More Good News and fewer book reviews.
  • More burden-bearers and fewer talebearers.
  • More love for the Word, less love for the world.
  • More seeking for grace, less seeking for place.
  • More holiness of life, less bickering, and strife.
  • More tithes and fewer drives.
  • More fasting; less feasting.
  • More praying; less playing.


Value of the Church
Author Unknown

“Why should I go to church?” a young girl asked her grandfather.

The grandfather was silent for a moment, and then he said, “Tell me, child, has the piano-tuner been here yet?  You said that the piano needed tuning.”

“No, I am still waiting for him.  The piano needs tuning badly.  I tried to play last evening, but my playing was a dismal failure.”

“Now, see my child, our souls are like a musical instrument,” said the grandfather.  “The strings become slack and out of tune quickly. They must be tuned up from time to time.”

“What do you mean, grandfather?”

“All strings, goodness, faith, courage, generosity, reverence, love — all grow less vibrant in us, without our even knowing it. But, when we hear the truths from the Word of God proclaimed at church, we see how we have lost tune.  We are tuned up once more to what is the true pitch of righteousness.  However, the tuning does not last, and so one must regularly go to church to have one’s soul tuned right.”

“To some people, religious freedom means the choice of churches, which they may stay away from.” — York Trade Compositor  

The Bible View #828 — Do Right

In This Issue:
As For Me, I Will…
Make Up Your Mind

Volume: 828    September 20, 2021
Theme: Do Right

Devotions, Bible Studies, Sunday School lessons and printable versions of The Bible View (including church bulletin insert and large print versions) are available at https://openthoumineeyes.com/ and http://www.devotionsfromthebible.com/.

All should read the Bible daily!  While at your computer,  go to www.DevotionsFromTheBible.com and read a chapter each day, and learn something from what you read. SIGN-UP to have the FREE devotion e-mailed and read a devotion and KJV chapter at your computer.


As For Me, I Will…
Committing to the Lord can be difficult and should involve conviction-led decisions.  A Christian must make up his mind if, when, and how he will obey what he has seen or learned of the Word of God truths.  

Many men and women of the past and present have had the tugging of the Holy Spirit encouraging them to obey God’s commandments, and they did.  Their convictions and determinations to do what God spoke to their hearts to do should be models for Christians.  Here are some decisions of many Bible characters and what they were convicted to do.

Joshua decided that no matter what those around him were doing, he would serve the Lord.
“And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve… but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” Joshua 24:15

No matter what others did, Samuel was determined not to sin.
“And Samuel said unto the people, Fear not: ye have done all this wickedness: yet turn not aside from following the LORD;… 23 Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you:…” I Samuel 12:20-23

David was determined to build a great work for the Lord.  Although God would not allow him to build the temple because of his past deeds, David provided all the necessary items for its construction and operation. He did what he could.
“And David said to Solomon, My son, as for me, it was in my mind to build an house unto the name of the LORD my God: 8 But the word of the LORD came to me, saying … thou shalt not build an house unto my name…”  I Chronicles 22:7-10  Also: I Chronicles 28:2, 29:17.

Job was determined not to be a complainer.
“As for me, is my complaint to man? and if it were so, why should not my spirit be troubled?” Job 21:4

David determined to rely on God’s protection and honor God.
“As for me, I will call upon God; and the LORD shall save me.” Psalm 55:16  Also: Psalm 17:8-15.

David was determined to be obedient to God.  One of God’s commandments was for all to attend the temple services and to worship God, and he did.
“But as for me, I will come into thy house in the multitude of thy mercy: and in thy fear will I worship toward thy holy temple.” Psalm 5:7

David was determined to abide by the standards God had shown him to uphold.
“… 11 But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me.” Psalm 26:9-11

David was determined to humble himself before his enemies and not to return evilness to other’s wickedness.
“… they laid to my charge things that I knew not. 12 They rewarded me evil for good to the spoiling of my soul. 13 But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth: I humbled my soul with fasting; and my prayer returned into mine own bosom.” Psalm 35:11-13

David was determined to have a consistent prayer life.
“But as for me, my prayer is unto thee, O LORD, in an acceptable time…” Psalm 69:13

Jeremiah was determined not to quit the task God called him to do.
“As for me, I have not hastened from being a pastor to follow thee: neither have I desired the woeful day; thou knowest: that which came out of my lips was right before thee.” Jeremiah 17:16

Jeremiah was determined to tell others what God wanted them to know, even if it cost him his life.
“Then spake Jeremiah unto all the princes and to all the people, saying, The LORD sent me to prophesy against this house and against this city all the words that ye have heard. 13 Therefore now amend your ways and your doings, and obey the voice of the LORD your God… 14 As for me, behold, I am in your hand: do with me as seemeth good and meet unto you. 15 But know ye for certain, that if ye put me to death …” Jeremiah 26:12-15

Daniel was determined not to be selfish with the wisdom God had given him.  He made sure he shared it with those that would be helped by God’s truths.
“But as for me, this secret is not revealed to me for any wisdom that I have more than any living, but for their sakes that shall make known the interpretation to the king, and that thou mightest know the thoughts of thy heart.” Daniel 2:30


Being born-again into the family of God by salvation is only the beginning.  After one is saved (Romans 10:9), God must and will do much “house cleaning” in a person’s character, if He is allowed.

A Christian is to be Christ-like and to be like Him the new creature in Christ should find himself a changed person.  Worldly thoughts and behaviors often are swept from a believer’s life, and different desires and behaviors will be proof of the Holy Spirit’s work in their lives.
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” II Corinthians 5:17

Christian, has the convicting Holy Spirit urged you to make changes in your lifestyle and character? Heed His prompting to make even the “little” changes in your personality, and how you react to situations you will face. 

As for you, what will you do with God’s Words?  Determine to do what He has shown you to do.  If you do, you will discover yourself to be the new creature God desires you to be.

“Always do right.  This will gratify some people and astonish the others.”
— Mark Twain


Make Up Your Mind
Bill Brinkworth

Before Joshua’s death, Israel’s leader gathered his people together. He reminded them of all the mighty things God had done for them and their fathers. Joshua rehearsed how God took, gave, sent, plagued, brought, put, destroyed, and delivered for them in over 17 instances (Joshua 24:3-13).

In the remembrances of the great helps God had done for Israel, the leader also reminded them of their failures. He told them how they continued to backslide from God and repeatedly had to be rescued from the consequences of their poor choices. Many of God’s deliverances were because the people had not learned their lesson and still were of two opinions.

Sometimes they served God, and other times they served the losing side and its false gods. Trying to live for God was a constant struggle for them. Their minds were not entirely made up, or they would not have repeatedly made the same mistakes.

No matter the loyalty of Israel to God, it was not a hard decision for Joshua. His mind was already made up. A long time previously, he had decided who His God was and that he would be faithful in obedience. It was no longer a struggle for him whom he would serve when he said: “Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” Joshua 24:14-15

Israel’s leader used interesting words in describing many of the people’s desire not to serve God. He used, “… if it seem evil”. This indicates that some people thought that serving their Creator and Protector was physically, socially, or morally bad for them. This thinking is not unlike the thoughts today of many. Too many think serving God and obeying his commandments are unprofitable to them because:

  • They will miss all the fun if they follow God’s commands. Sin is only “fun” for a short time. Sin never gives true joy, only temporary satisfaction.
    “Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;” Hebrews 11:25 
  • They do not know that there is a price tag for sin. No one gets away with sin. Sin always does damage and only gives short-lived satisfaction (Hebrews 11:25).
    “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” Proverb 28:13  Also: Romans 6:23.
  • His way is not the world’s way. By following His way, they will appear strange and different tos others. They will not fit in.

    Yes, God’s way is different. Yes, you will not “fit in” if you are obedient to God, but why do you want to be like the losing side? God’s way is always better. He has raised trillions of children, and His ways are the best.
    “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:9
  • They only see the now and forget the eternal. There is life after death. There is an eternity in either Heaven or Hell. What sense is there in missing Heaven for temporal satisfaction in a relatively short time here on Earth? 
    “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” Mark 8:36


The world’s excuses for not serving God have always been the same. The reasons come from a similar rebellious and disobedient heart. No matter the time, the answer to God can be the same as Joshua’s, “… but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24:15) No matter what others think or do, we can always be different and do right!

“Right is right, even if everyone is against it, and wrong is wrong, even if everyone is for it.” — William Penn