| Whatsoever
Things Are True
by Pastor Dan Coburn There was a multiple murder in the news last week. It was either over or because of, a video game. Just for the record, I’m not intimidated by video games or those that use them, “but” the fact remains that there are some around about us that are weak minded and lost, and this non positive input seems to have a dramatic effect on them. And it’s not just them; How many of you cried when Old Yeller died? “What’s he talkin about Ethel?” Just this. We burry ourselves in every degree of sex and violence under the guise of entertainment, and think it won’t effect us. Then why did we cry when Old Yeller got it? You see, your mind can’t tell the difference. Is this a potentially serious problem? Yes actually, it is. God warns us in Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there ve any praise, think on these things.” In other words, Garbage In - Garbage Out. Still don’t see the danger? OK. Let’s do the math. Input effects the emotions. Emotions influence the mind; The mind controls the will, the will controls our actions. Ever heard of a “crime of passion”? Have you ever argued with someone and when they had exhausted all reason, they put their hands on their hips and screamed at you through tear filled eyes: “That’s just the way I feel!”. Don’t laugh, they were just being honest. Now let’s turn the Spiritual Switch. Many Christians lack assurance because they depend on emotions rather than the promises of God. What most folks mean when they say they doubt their salvation is that they don’t Feel saved. Emotions are not reliable, and usually run contradictory to God’s Word. Let’s recap: God cannot lie - Titus 1:2. If we received God’s Son we have Life - 1st John 5:12. If we sincerely call on the Lord, we Shall be saved - Romans 10:13. Our God is able to Keep (or sustain) those who believe on Him - 2nd Tim. 1:12. By receiving Christ we become Children of God - John 1:12. We are actually called Adopted sons. (Here is some extra credit. In Idaho you can give up a biological child, but you can’t legally give up an adopted son). I don’t know if that is pertinent here, but it is an awesome thought. The point is, if you are a Christian, and you don’t feel saved, someone is lying to you. Either it’s your emotions, or the Word of God. Which do you think it might be? The danger is, that your Feelings will dictate your Actions, and you can’t live the full, abundant life Christ has for you. If you have never received Christ as your Lord and Savior, please call me. It will not be a bother, as Jesus is my favorite subject. God Bless. |
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