Luke 6:43-45
The scripture for today is Luke 6:43-45
Luke 6:43-45 For a good tree brings not forth corrupt fruit; neither does a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit. For from thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.
While it is certainly possible to put up a good front for a short while, it is not possible to continue to be something that you are not for an extended period of time. Eventually the "real you" will come out. That usually happens at a time when, under the pressures of life, the facade breaks down and the real you is exposed. A time when what is inside of you is demanded and not what you pretend to be.
Jesus gave the insight found in our text for today and followed up these words with "And why call me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?" Luke 6:46 While this text is often presented as a rebuke to those who hear but do not follow the commands of Christ, it is also a reminder to those who truly love Him that our love for the Lord is visibly expressed through our obedience to His Word. How do I show my love for God? I demonstrate my love for Him by my unfailing obedience to what He directs in His Word. It amazing how well-meaning people miss this basic concept; "If you love God, obey Him." God did not give us His commandments just to show us that He is in charge; He gave us His commandments to show us the best way to live. He wants us to enjoy a life of peace and happiness. Following His commands is the only path to such a life. Harvest time always comes and at that time the fruit of our lives is revealed. Regardless of what we portray on the outside, God sees what is on the inside, and that will eventually be seen by all.
Jesus is expressing the love of God to us. Please, Christ is pleading, if you love me and call me Lord, Lord, obey what I have given you. It is your path to freedom; it is your path to life. Do not hear the Word of God and then try to explain it away. Hear the Word of God and embrace it, follow His directions, keep His commandments. Your life depends on it. The lives of others also depend on it. Choose life.
God bless you as you continue in His service.
Tim