Bible Blog Post - June 21, 2020

2 Kings 1:1-2:25

Acts 13:42-14:7

Psalm 139:1-24

Proverbs 17:19-21

See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:24

I admire how openly David was speaking with God in his prayer of protection and guidance.  He fully acknowledged how completely the Lord knew him, and he went as far as asking the Lord to let him know if there was anything offensive in him.  That is such a bold request, and I wonder how different the world would be if we shared the same devotion to God that David had.

Imagine sitting at a table with God having a one-on-one conversation, and asking Him to list any offensive way in you that might lead you away from everlasting life.  Now imagine having that knowledge, full disclosure of all the changes that you need to make.  Would you be willing to make the necessary sacrifices now for investing in everlasting life in the future, even if it meant going against the norm and what you've always believed to be true?  Hearing the truth isn't always easy to accept, nor is it always welcomed, but time and time again we see that drifting away from God's way leads to destruction and sorrow.

In Acts, we see Paul and Barnabas delivering the message of salvation through Jesus Christ to Jews and Gentiles.  The Jewish leaders were still unwilling to accept that He was the Messiah that God had promised.  They did not believe Jesus, nor His disciples, despite the many miracles that occurred.  Imagine if the synagogue leaders opened up to God like David did, putting themselves second, and putting to rest their interpretation of who the Messiah would be.  They had such a small vision of who they thought God would send that they discounted the marvelous acts of God that were happening right before their eyes.  Had they accepted Paul and Barnabas' claims, and put aside their personal beliefs, they would have had the opportunity to receive salvation.  

God is always present in our lives. We need to open ourselves up like David did and foster a deep personal relationship with God; one that involves equal parts talking and listening.  Just like a good boss will give you constructive criticism to highlight areas that need improvement in the workplace, our Heavenly Father will reveal things that need addressing in all areas of our lives.  It may not be easy to accept these truths, but God knows what's best for us.  Today, ask yourself, "What kind of life would I gain if I consistently followed God's Word and guidance?"

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for always listening to our prayers.  Please help us to become more attuned to listening to you, and apply your wisdom to our lives.  Amen. 

Amanda and Anthony