Message from Scripture: 12/30/2020

 

Our message from Scripture today comes from 2 Pet. 3:17-18. “You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard lest, being carried away by the error of unprincipled men, you fall from your own steadfastness, 18 but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.”

Have you ever noticed how children like to be carried by their parents? Sometimes, a child responds this way for security, the comfort received by being held. At other times, there may be a degree of laziness, a child not wanting to walk, but have the adult expend the energy instead.

There is an analogy with this, and how some Christians live. How many people depend on someone else to “carry them along” in the kingdom, in the work of the church?  How many expect to receive the benefits of others who have matured in their faith, and serve faithfully?  How many Christians want to be carried into heaven by the efforts of others?

There is a real danger in having this attitude. As long as a parent, or mentor, or someone else, is there to influence them positively, they may do okay, but when that person is not there to carry them, their spirituality fades and can be diminished.  Their relationship with God is based on someone else, and they have not learned what a deep, personal faith in Christ is all about.

A faith that must be carried is subject to who is carrying it for us, as well as whoever or whatever else comes along life’s way. Seek to have your own faith that is focused on God, that trusts in Him, that will abide in Him no matter what. By trusting in God, by allowing Him to carry us along in life, we have a faith that offers victory (1 John 5:4). Live by your faith in Christ through God’s word, and have a great day. God bless.

Robert