2012-07-30 - What Would Jude Say?

Jude 1:11-21

But you, dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith, and pray in the Holy Spirit. (Jude 1:20)

You should be leery of a few questionable characters out there. They may appear genuine, but these types of people love evil and have no evidence of the Holy Spirit working in their lives. They are like Cain, Korah, and Balaam, and that's not much of a complement. These false men are of the same cloth - greedy, ungodly, and craving power. Cain was envious and a murderer, Korah was rebellious, and Balaam loved money. You must be aware that the aim of these types of men is not your success, but defeat. They may go to Godly places; that doesn't qualify them as Christ-followers. Their main concern is themselves.

Having a good time, laughing and eating too much, they are full of empty promises and hot air. I'm not alone in my assessment. Enoch once said they would stand before God and receive their just punishment. Don't adhere to their despicable behavior, do not strive to be like them, but do the opposite. Stay in God's love. Help the doubters; be kind and compassionate to them, without condoning their sin. Your example of God's love could be just what the cynics need, to become believers.

Lord, I did it again. I got caught up in the rat race in front of me, forgetting that You see the entire picture. You know what people's true motives are. Keep me away from people who could deter me from where I am headed. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

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