Message from Scripture: 9/28/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Ex. 33:16. ^“For how shall it be known that I have found favor in your sight, I and your people? Is it not in your going with us, so that we are distinct, I and your people, from every other people on the face of the earth?”

The context of this passage is when Moses went up on the mountain to receive the law of God, and the people played the harlot while he was gone. It is amazing to consider how, after all the harsh oppression they endured in Egypt, and how after they had seen all the good works of God on their behalf, they gave themselves over to the unrestrained desires of the flesh. Many suffered and died for this lack of self-control. What caused them to do this? Did a pagan nation’s army come up and coerce them into this behavior? Did a band of marauders pass by and reason them into accepting such activity? Did one of the Israelites inquire of God and receive His blessing to act this way? No, each person decided for him or herself that this is what they would do. No one forced them…it was their own decision.

If we are truly in Christ, we will show it. We are to be separate, distinct, different from everyone else. Do we live a different life? Are we faithful in assembling to worship, when the world is not? Are we faithful in spending time in His word so we can grow more like our Lord, when the world is not? Are we faithful in walking in the will of God every day, which some believe is unnecessary to inheriting eternal life? If we can do anything and everything other than that which is spiritual, whose choice is that?

If we are children of God, we will be distinct; we will be different! It is the choice we make, to have God go with us, or to go our own way. Paul said, “Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ” (Phil. 1:27). Do you reflect Christ, or your surroundings? Do you live worthy of the gospel?  Do you seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness? Are you different? Live for Christ today, and be blessed of God.

Robert