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| February 11, 2002 |
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| "And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it. For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away?" Luke 9:23-25 The world today is so infatuated and preoccupied with "self"! And how contrary to the example and lifegiving principles of our Lord Jesus. He came to bring life. He revealed and demonstrated the principles of life. Folks, He clearly taught that life is not to be found in living for "self", but rather in giving of self in the service of God and others! Happiness is not found in the pursuit of happiness! Life is not found in the pursuit of life! Both are found in a pursuit of God and His righteousness! As Jesus said, "Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled" (Matthew 5:6). The end, or finished product, of our current emphasis on "self" is not life, but disappointment and ultimately death! If we would discover "true life", then we must pursue the things of God and the Spirit! ". . . whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things" (Philippians 4:8). All we have or are that is worthwhile is the gift of God's pure grace! And yet we are proud, self-centered, envious, and quarrelsome. We often fight over God's good gifts rather than expressing our gratitude in humility and sharing what we have been given with others. When we think of how much we have taken from God's world, we should bow our heads in guilt and shame, as we look at how little we give to His work. "But this I say, He that soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly" (2Corinthians 9:6). May God bless you with a wonderful week as you count and share your many blessings from the Lord. Love in Christ Jesus, Sandy |