Hold Up*

“In fact, if you know the right thing to do and don’t do it, that, for you, is [sin].” Be honest, have you lived out James 4:17 (MSG) some time in your life? Do you remember when? Did the issue get corrected?

Psalm 119:1-8, 57-64 (MSG), which is given below, helps us to recognize three important points about the world we live in.

1.  Today’s laws are based on precepts from the scripture.

2.  The Bible helps us make alterations in our life when it needs to happen.

3.  When we read the Word of God, we realize how much gratitude we owe the Almighty for all He has done for us.

“You’re blessed when you stay on course,
    walking steadily on the road revealed by God.
You’re blessed when you follow his directions,
    doing your best to find him.

That’s right—you don’t go off on your own;
    you walk straight along the road he set.
You, God, prescribed the right way to live;
    now you expect us to live it.
Oh, that my steps might be steady,
    keeping to the course you set;

Then I’d never have any regrets
    in comparing my life with your counsel.
I thank you for speaking straight from your heart;
    I learn the pattern of your righteous ways.
I’m going to do what you tell me to do;
    don’t ever walk off and leave me.

Because you have satisfied me, God, I promise
    to do everything you say.
I beg you from the bottom of my heart: smile,
    be gracious to me just as you promised.
When I took a long, careful look at your ways,
    I got my feet back on the trail you blazed.
I was up at once, didn’t drag my feet,
    was quick to follow your orders.

The wicked hemmed me in—there was no way out—
    but not for a minute did I forget your plan for me.
I get up in the middle of the night to thank you;
    your decisions are so right, so true—I can’t wait till morning!
I’m a friend and companion of all who fear you,
    of those committed to living by your rules.
Your love, God, fills the earth!
    Train me to live by your counsel.”

What in your life do you wish the Almighty would help you be more consistent with? Could it be spending better quality time with your family; having better devotional and prayer moments with God (quiet time);  breaking bad habits that have a negative strong hold on your life, getting old debts paid off, or something else that comes to mind right now?

Philippians 4:13 (NKJV) says you already have the victory to accomplish anything positive that is required in your life: “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.”

When you become a believer in Jesus (or got back to the basics of your belief system), don’t wait to take immediate action on what you sense (is the right thing to do). Do it now. It always helps in your walk with the Heavenly Father to make yourself accountable to a good friend you trust that will keep your confidences, and help guide you on the right path in accomplishing your life goals.

If there’s no one you feel comfortable giving the responsibility of this role to, it’s always possible to allow Jesus to do what is described in the chorus of a Casting Crowns’ song whether you’re a male (or female):

Jesus, hold me now

I need to feel you in this place

To know You’re by my side

And hear Your voice tonight

Jesus, hold me now

I long for Your embrace

I’m beat and broken down

I can’t find my way out

Jesus, hold me now

 Jesus wants you to be assured in your life of what 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (MSG) confidently proclaims of the Bible, “Every part of scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another – showing us truth; exposing our rebellion; correcting our mistakes; training us to live God’s way. Through the Word we are put together, and shaped up for tasks God has for us.”  

You’d be quite idiotic not to take advantage of all the Almighty wants to offer you in His Word. You’re not stupid are you? (I didn’t think so.)

*To prevent from falling with support.

**Inspired by the sermon “Close the Gap” Pastor Dave Jansen, August 28, 2016, CenterPoint Church Gahanna, Gahanna, OH