Every time I hear someone say something about not believing in God, a little sadness forms in my heart. Although I don’t like to remember such things, they take me back to a time when that was me. I looked at the plight of man, I saw the issues around me, and I couldn’t believe in a God who stood by and let that happen. It was as if I expected God to be a harsh ruler, who zapped all who got out of line, but that never seemed to happen. Psalm 73 tells the very story of what I used to go through, except that I was one of the unbelievers. It was the wicked who seemed to prosper, and I wanted to prosper. I believe in good versus evil, yet couldn’t bring myself to accept the fact that I was evil. It wasn’t until after I was saved, that I realized the truth of verses 16-17 of Psalm 73 which say, “When I tried to understand all this, it seemed hopeless, until I entered God’s sanctuary. Then I understood their destiny.” The very destiny that I was traveling. It seems like these days, I remember what God did for me, and where I came from. I often ponder that in my heart. I think it is good that we have memories of the good and the bad, not that we dwell on them, but that they bring us to refreshment knowing that God, in His great mercy saved us from our sins. He wiped the slate clean that I had come to know as filthy. He forgave me, even when I could not forgive myself. Over the years, I have learned to accept His grace, even through my failures. There is a beautiful dialogue with the Lord recorded by the Prophet Malachi which says, “Your words against Me are harsh,’ says the Lord. ‘Yet you ask: “What have we spoken against you?” You have said: “It is useless to serve God. What have we gained by keeping His requirements and walking mournfully before the Lord of Hosts?” So now we consider the arrogant to be fortunate. Not only do those who commit wickedness prosper, they even test God and escape.” At that time those who feared the Lord spoke to one another. The Lord took notice and listened. So a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who feared Yahweh and had high regard for His name. ”They will be Mine,’ says the Lord of Hosts, a special possession on the day I am preparing. I will have compassion on them as a man has compassion on his son who serves him.’ So you will again see the difference between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve Him.” Malachi 3:13-18 Pastor Andy
Will you serve him today? I have heard it said that God is never on time (ours), but He is never late (His timing)! Today is the day of salvation! Run to the cross … He is expecting you!
Barnabas Man 