“Son of man, these people have set up idols in their hearts
And put wicked stumbling blocks before their faces.
Should I let them inquire of Me at all?
Ezekiel 14:3-4
Though we behaved as dishonorable and disobedient fools, being deceived and misled so we’d become slaves to the many lusts and pleasures of our flesh. God our Savior revealed His love and kindness! He saved us! Not because of the good things we believe we’ve done, but by His grace and mercy!
He washed away our sins! (Titus 3:3-5a). God so loved the world! He so loves you and me and everyone, He sent His Son, Christ Jesus, to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world (1 John 2:1-2).
How utterly amazing!
Why allow deception or disbelief or doubt or pride or anything that has the power to prevent the Truth of God’s love from shining forth. Even a cat has curiosity! I say this because we could equate sin to a crime punishable by imprisonment. But not just a short stint in prison – a death sentence. Then, for some unknown reason suddenly being pardoned. In essence, a bullet is dodged. We’re given a second chance to choose a different course for our lives.
Why should freedom be lost? Why should time be spent in a concrete jungle, when God made it possible for spiritual discernment to be obtained? Discernment, which brings understanding! Everything is permissible for us; but not all things are good for us to do. Yes, everything is allowable, but why should we become the slave of anything or be brought under its power?
(1 Corinthians 6:12 AMP).
The Book of Daniel tells of the sovereignty and greatness and glory and splendor of a king, Nebuchadnezzar, who was deposed from his royal throne and stripped of his glory. Why? His heart became arrogant and hardened with pride (Daniel 5:18-20).
There were definitely hard times ahead for that one who desired to be served the best this world offers. But God, His plan gave the world a sign and a wonder by restoring a humble and repentant king to his sovereignty. At the end of that troubled time, this was Nebuchadnezzar’s testimony, “I raised my eyes toward heaven and my sanity was restored. Then, I praised the Most High! I honored and glorified Him Who lives forever!” Daniel 4:34.
Nebuchadnezzar didn’t choose to walk from a world of privilege into an existence as a creature, doomed like all mankind to experience life like the devil, a foraging predator. Sadly, the only change was his appearance. Praise God, we don’t have to allow sadness to deplete or overpower Gratitude. We can always give thanks to God, Who gives us the strength and power of Hope to cling onto.
Hallelujah! Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed! His compassions never fail! They are new every morning; great is His faithfulness! We too can remind ourselves, “The Lord is my portion; therefore, I will wait for Him!” Lamentations 3:21-24. God makes us to be a sign and a wonder in this world, when we make the choice to look up! Our sanity won’t be the only thing restored. God restores our sight so we can see His glory in the face of Christ Jesus! (2 Corinthians 4:6).
Utterly, utterly amazing!
God, Who has called you into fellowship with His Son
Jesus Christ our Lord,
Is faithful!
1 Corinthians 1:9
Breaking Free from Spiritual Bondage
