People of God

People of God, unite!  (Col. 3:1-17)  There is an enemy. (1Pet 5:8)  And his mission is to steal, kill and destroy. (John 10:10)  Do you not recognize his schemes?  (Eph. 6:10-18)  Can you not see that, not only is he on the prowl, he is on the attack?!  Where is your focus?  What is your goal?  Keep it in mind!  Set your eyes on the target!  Bring honor and glory to God...  not anger (and shame) on yourself, and your family.  Listen up!

The LORD is righteous in all His ways

and loving toward all He has made.

The LORD is near to all who call on Him,

to all who call on Him in truth.

He fulfills the desires of those who fear Him;

He hears their cry and saves them.

The LORD watches over all who love Him,

but the wicked He will destroy.

My mouth will speak in praise of the LORD,

Let every creature praise His holy name

for ever and ever.

~Psalm 145:17-21

A divided heart - the journey begins...

"Israel was a spreading vine; he brought forth fruit for himself.  As his fruit increased, he built more altars; as his land prospered, he adorned his sacred stones.  Their heart was deceitful, and now they must bear their guilt.  the Lord will demolish their altars and destroy their sacred stones."  ~Hosea 10:1-2

Israel -> God's chosen people  (as am I)

a spreading vine -> growing, becoming more beautiful, impressive, fruitful


But, as I have a tendency to become prideful, or self-impressed, the altars that were meant to bring honor and glory to God, instead become decorations marking my own accomplishments and importance.  My heart is deceptive...  divided between loyalty to God, and loyalty to myself.  (Doesn't God care for me?  Of course He does!)  "But remember the LORD your God, for it is He who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms His covenant, which He swore to your forefathers, as it is today."  (Deut. 8:18)

"Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the LORD, until He comes and showers righteousness on you."  ~Hosea 10:12

Don't...
     plant wickedness,
           reap evil,
              eat the fruit of deception.

And, DON'T depend on your own strength.
(v. 13)

The LORD God Almighty is faithful.

You are precious to Him.

Let Him show you.