July 13, 2021
By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward. By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible. Hebrews 11:24-27
Many professed believers have yet to make a discernment between simply holding to a lofty principle and having a vision from God. The former is often used as an excuse for inaction, but the latter brings into one’s life a vitality, enthusiasm, and character-building integrity. Jonah had the right idea about God and His attributes: …for I know that you are a gracious and merciful God, slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness…(Jonah 4:2), but this was actually his excuse for not wanting to obey Him in preaching to the Ninevites! Having great ideas about the attributes of God may be the very reason that I do not do my duty (or cease doing what I know to be wrong). Be aware that just holding idealistic and lofty principles lulls countless people into ruin.
Where there is no revelation, the people cast of restraint; But happy is he who keeps the law. Proverbs 29:18
There are marvelous truths from the Word of God that we have firmly taken hold of. Praise Him for that! It is so very exciting to gain clarity on a certain point where before there was mystery. But do not be satisfied. Instead, keep reaching. Keep growing. I need to ask myself: ‘Does my reach exceed my grasp?’ If it does not, then I have settled for less than the whole of life's lessons that God has for me.
In our journey through this world, we must remember that we are pilgrims. We have yet to arrive in the Promised Land. It is a great blessing in our witness to others to possess enthusiasm for what the LORD has taught us by His Spirit. It can be positively contagious! But beware of the danger of spiritual satisfaction which can rapidly lead to complacency. This attitude creeps in the back door and has repeatedly ushered corruption directly into the midst of God’s people through the ages. It is the root of divisiveness among God’s people.
Beloved, it is our vision of God that will stretch us! The hope that we have in Him should cause us to keep reaching beyond what we have grasped thus far.....
“If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.” John 13:17