J.C. Ryle

"When a man’s heart is cold and unconcerned about religion – when his hands are never employed in doing God’s work – when his feet are not familiar with God’s ways – when his tongue is seldom or never used in prayer and praise – when his eyes are blind to the beauty of the kingdom of heaven – when his mind is full of the world, and has no room for spiritual things – when these marks are to be found in a man the word of the Bible is the right word to use about him, and that word is, ‘Dead.’”

Thursday, January 11, 2007

Stumbling Block To Stepping Stone

"You turned my stumbling block to a stepping stone. You loved me even though you knew I was wrong. Oh Lord, you never cease to amaze me! Your loving arms became a bridge of mercy. You turned my stumbling block to a stepping stone." David & The Giants (Long Time Coming CD)

Ever had one of those days when it seems like everything sets you off? The kids are screaming, the cat is scratching your furniture, your car needs maintenance, you are out of milk, etc. You just want to huff at the world and stew in your own anger. Well I've had plenty of days like this! The flesh is sometimes stronger than we realize and it can cause us to stumble when we thought we had it all under control.

Each one of us can have a different stumbling block -- anger, envy, bitterness, an unforgiving spirit. The Lord gently reminds us that these can lead to sin and we must, with His guidance, purge these emotions from our hearts in order to fully obey him and strengthen our character. "Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of malicious behavior." (Ephesians 4:31).

We must seek the Lord and ask him to remove whatever is hindering our walk with him. It is through these gentle reminders that we steadfastly and confidently develop the character of Christ. "And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation." (Romans 5:4)

Seek and believe in the Lord. He will set you free!






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