2011-12-29 - Wicked Days

Matt 10:16 “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves." (NASB)

The end of another year is upon us. It has been a difficult year in many ways - culture, politics and home and abroad, finances, and the list goes on and on.

Many would call these days wicked saying that evil is all around us. But we have always lived in wicked times. The evil is less veiled and a little more bold these days, but evil has always been present. There are many who walk around speaking high sounding words that actually say nothing. So has it been for my whole life. I have the blessing of experience, reading and well read friends that help me to see these things more clearly when we talk.

The United Negro College Fund motto says, "A Mind is a Terrible Thing to Waste." Devastatingly spot on. And regardless of whatever color skin is wrapped around that mind it is true. The sound bytes from the nightly news or at the water cooler often sound good but do they match up with truth. Listen to what is being said. There are many things that sound as good as the outstanding motto above that are hollow at best. Be wise as serpents.

We are mirrors that should be reflecting the love of Christ. That will shine light into dark places where the light is not always welcome. Sin enjoys darkness where nobody sees. God sees. That's why the claim that there is no god at all has become a rallying cry for the world that wants to be able to do as it sees fit. We will be accused of being narrow-minded and intolerant. We see the danger beyond "if it feels good do it." The truth has set us free, and is freely offered to the world.

Innocent as doves. An old saying goes something like this. When someone accuses you of doing wrong have lived so that no one will believe it. Let God lead in how you serve Him. I have a friend who cleans the bathrooms and vacuums the entire church after services. The building is not small, but she serves in this way and in others. Most who attend that church will never know who is behind the scenes. If anyone ever accused her of something unethical or immoral those who know her would scoff in the face of the accuser.

Read the Bible to know truth. If you want encouagement, read the last two chapters of Revelation. Pray for the world and those around you. Pray without ceasing. Live and love like you're dying. Live for Him. This is how to fight off the wicked days. In the evil of today there are still many blessings. Find the blessings. Have a blessed New Year.

Grace & Peace,
Mike

jmhoskins@gmail.com
http://www.cfdevotionals.org

2013-01-02