In today’s upside-down world, the “affect” of God’s Word within our hearts is far-reaching. Not doctrines of men, such as denominational teachings, catechism, counsels, or confessions. But only the Word of God. It is the bread of life that Jesus alludes to for He is the Word, the manna from heaven. But no one wishes to believe it. It is easier to deny God’s Word for it removes the tension between man and his creator. If just given a chance it will extinguish every question the heart holds if we cling to it as if it were the bread of life that it claims to be!
We live in a world divided in every way and on every issue, even among those of us who may be of the same faith or political party. What is the truth is no longer truth. It has been replaced by fabrications and lies, based on feelings and emotion. Rather than list all the points of division, how about we list where we agree? However, even then, the list is so small that it is a more daunting task to compile.
However, if we were quick to see what God’s Word has to say on the issues at hand, whether it be direct or vaguely rooted in the spirit of the Word, many issues would not only be resolved, as in cease to exist, we would also agree by the mere fact that we hold one perspective in common… and that would be the guidance that God’s word lends to us as His creation for everyday living..
The holy writ, the scriptures, are a divine tool from above that guides and directs our lives. Just consider the following.
2 Timothy 3:16 (Amplified Bible, Classic Edition)
16 Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God’s will in thought, purpose, and action),
Here in lies the problem. Most do not want any of what is in the verse listed above. We don’t like to be told what to do, we don’t like correction, we certainly don’t like to feel convicted of our sin, and as for discipline obedience… forget that! That is the fallen part of mankind, raising its ugly head.
“You’re not going to tell me what to do!”
“You're not going to push your beliefs onto me!”
Psalm 119:9 (Amplified Bible, Classic Edition)
>9 How shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed and keeping watch [on himself] according to Your word [conforming his life to it].
Psalm 119:105 (Amplified Bible, Classic Edition)
>105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Psalm 119:130 (Amplified Bible, Classic Edition)
>130 The entrance and unfolding of Your words give light; their unfolding gives understanding (discernment and comprehension) to the simple.
For those who do not claim Christ, who want nothing to do with God, his Word, or anything remotely connected… Well…you need to move on. This may not be your thing, but it does according to natural law, apply to you. I feel for you, because whether you believe anything or not, it will not change what is, and there does come a point of no return spiritually. (The reprobate doctrine.)
For those who claim Christ… I beseech you, to get into the Word, know the Word, and know it contextually, not by way of proof-texting which simply bolsters your eisegetical worldview, not a real biblical worldview.
Let God’s Word shift your worldview that divides us, whether we are on the Right or the Left of various social issues it is what God’s Word declares as the way we should live, within the parameters of His creation that matters. It is His Word that will have lasting and a life-confirming effect, and affect, in the world around us. It is His creation, not ours. We are just visitors passing through.
Brent Hartford