If I let my mate have their way, they may treat me better. If I pray long and hard enough, maybe they'll go to church. If I share everything I'm learning, perhaps some of it will rub off. If I'm completely obedient and submissive, they will get saved.
But God says -- you can't save anyone but yourself (Ez. 14:14).
If I choose my children's friends, I can guard their influence. If I keep them at my side, perhaps no harm will come. If I teach them about God from dusk 'till dawn, they will never stray. If I do home schooling, I can keep them from the evil one.
But God says -- you can't save anyone but yourself (Ez. 14:16).
If I study all week, my Sunday School class will receive my lesson. If I speak with tears and emotion, they'll know all I say is true. If I keep insisting what I believe, they'll finally get it. If I serve all over the church, others will too.
But God says -- you can't save anyone but yourself (Ez. 14:18).
If I dress just right, the world will know I'm a Christian. If I let people walk on me, they'll know my God is real. If I do everything perfectly, others will follow. If I give away all my possessions, they'll want what I have.
But God says -- you can't save anyone but yourself (Ez. 14:20).
Do you suppose God knew we wouldn't get it the first time?
Our outside appearance doesn't mean anything until it's a by-product of what's on the inside. Our faith is not to be in who we are, but in who God is.
If we'd put all that focus and energy unto our own spiritual growth, just think of the great things we might accomplish!
When our relationship with God is first on our list of priorities, He gives a very special promise. He'll leave a remnant for those we love (Ex. 14:22)
© by Joyce C. Lock