June 15th

Blind Curves, Hidden Driveways, Falling Rocks

But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak. 1 Corinthians 8:9

When God's Word speaks, we've got answers. God's Word, which is God's truth, when it speaks, we've got our answer.

I like to say that we're a textual community. In other words, what binds us together is God's Word-the Bible. If God said it, the issue's settled. Settled. It's a done deal.

Adultery? That's not even a question. Settled. God tells us in His Word how He feels about adultery. Divorce? Clears it up. Settles it. Stealing? Clears it up. It's never okay. Lying? Clears it up. It's never okay. Pride? Clears it up, never okay. Rape? Never okay. Fornication? Sex out of marriage? Clears it up. Never okay.

Listen, if the Bible says it, it's settled. If the Bible says, Don't do this, and I choose to do it, that's called sin. And I need a community around me that says, Bob, buddy, you're sinning. You are now putting into jeopardy and threatening your relationship with the community to which you say you belong. You need to repent. You need to come back.

The Bible says don't do this. And yet, people will write. They'll call. They'll come. They'll visit. And they'll say, Well, I know it says that but I want to know, can I do it? It's like some legalistic straightjacket, man. I mean, the Bible says the truth will set you free. Free, man. Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.

All true. Hallelujah! We're free! But our liberty and freedom as Christians is not some unbridled license to just do and live however we want to do and live. The abundant life God has for us is full of freedom, but not freedom to sin.

Why? Because sin brings destruction in your life. God is saying, I love you and I've got plans and purposes for your life that are filled with fulfillment and joy. But you'll cut yourself off from all of that if you fill your life with sin.

That's why I need the Holy Spirit in my life. I need the Holy Spirit to keep my conscience clear; that I can see him guiding and leading my life, leading me away from sin and toward His good purposes.

Will you let the Holy Spirit lead you today?

Prayer Holy Spirit,

Thank You that You have good plans for me that are way better than I'll find on my own in a life full of sin! Please lead me and guide me today, away from sin and into all of Your good plans!

Amen