genesis

The Path Of Grace

~ jma47 ~ Leave a comment

Philippians 2:8 says of Jesus, “…He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.” 

Trials test our obedience as they build our endurance. Think of Abram. God appeared to him and said, “…Get out of your country, from your family and from your father’s house, to a land that I will show you.:” Genesis 12:1. 

Catch verse 4. It says, “So Abram departed as the Lord had spoken to him…Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran.” In obedience he packed up everything, and with his family and livestock headed out to follow God. I moved lock stock and barrel in 2004 to take care of my parents 24/7. I left my friends and church family to follow the Lord’s leading.

The path of obedience is strewn with grace. As we follow the Lord, we walk in His footsteps. Psalm 85:13. He always goes before us to prepare the way. 

Deceit Hardens Hearts

~ jma47 ~ Leave a comment

Hebrews 3:13 says, “But exhort one another daily…lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” Calloused hearts have hidden sin. Romans 5:12 says that through Adam sin entered the world. Adam and Eve bore Cain and Abel.

Cain’s sacrifice was not accepted, though Abel’s was. Genesis 4:5 says, “…Cain was very angry, and his countenance fell.” In verse 7 God asked Cain a question. It says, “If you do well, will you not be accepted?…”

Cain’s sin remained hidden. His anger smoldered until in rage he killed his brother. He did not do what God had said. Verse 7 continued, “…sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it.”

Hidden sin is the trap-stick in satan’s trap. Hidden lust, bitterness, resentment, critical spirit, unforgiveness, etc. Numbers 32:23 says, “…you have sinned against the Lord; and be sure your sin will find you out.”