3 replies to this topic

[Thinker]

I'm convinced that far too many who are saved invest little or no effort to enter into this magnificent relationship to the extent that God intends for us to do. Why is it that we invest much time, money and effort into our careers, our "fun" times, our "toys," our families, our jobs and sports and give little time to developing our relationship with God? There needs to be a balance in the budgeting of our time and activities. Dealing with God is the first priority in our daily lives. These other things must work around that core commitment. (There will be emergencies to deal with but let's be sure they are emergencies and not excuses). We need to give time and thought to Scripture and prayer. Worship and witnessing should be part of our days. Reading for understanding, inspiration and encouragement has an important role to play. Regularly gathering with our brothers and sisters in the faith is essential for corporate worship and edification. Having a ministry is something for all of us to do. "But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life" (Jude 20-21). Selah! We can do all of the above and still not have stirred from our slumber. How can we avoid this trap? Do drop by tomorrow! Ron

[Candice]

Hi Thinker Ron,
I am a sloth sometimes. I went to a Bill Gothard "Basic Life Principles Institute" course many years ago. I was a baby believer. The yet "sloth" clung to my conscience. This sloth, sluggard or lazy person really stuck in my mind. I hate to admit that I possess a strong dislike if laziness. I have ministered to my son about laziness. He works hard as a 15 year old working full time at a deli. I won't allowy teen to sit around weekends and summers.

Yet, there is in me a distracted spirit, if you will. And, as busy as a bee I may be, it is still a form of sloth fullness! I can work, work and work some more and minister, strive and "dug for Jesus" all I want, and not be KNOWN by Him. This relationship is foremost, utmost to Him, but not always to me. There is nothing truly more sad than to see myself and others "striving". I believe though that scripture speaks of striving in our relationship and in ministry but only in the sense of ABIDING. Period. I cannot and will not serve in my flesh. For too many years I bought into the lie of works. And, it was all flesh and did not "profit" me.

When you mention not putting effort into our relationship I, admittedly and in no offense with you, brother, tend to recoil against the sound if any "works" in my relationship, communing and listening in prayer with the LORD!!
It is, again, a daily tug of war for me because of my busy nature. But He is good all the time and not me.

Funny, my husband, our sin and I are in Costa Rica right now as I write. I have seen and pet a few real sloths on nearby trees. They are just s physical reminder of vulnerability. Every time I see one, I think of the LORD's admonishment about slothfulness. Those sloths are also always smiling and blinking so shyly. How they could be so easily snatched up (although they are very hard to pry off of branches). What a reminder if ourselves!

I feel guilty being here just resting. My hubby works So many hours. But, for me, ministering to him may be it for several days. Also, cleaning my own kitchen here so the lady who cleans can have a break. Going to a tow Sunday to find the Calvary Chapel outreach pastor for fellowship. Pray God will work in this. Getting online here is helpful for fellowship from far away

[Candice]

Sorry for typos. I am using my phone!!

[Thinker]

Candice (and others interested), Working for favor from the Lord and/or working for the Lord is not what the Scripture has in mind. " .... work out your own salvation with fear and trembling for it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure...." (From Philippians 2:12-13). God works His will in and through us and He, Himself, does His good pleasure. The inflow of the Word, loved and applied, in His strength, produces the fruit of righteousness. This springs from our trust in and love of our wonderful Lord and Savior. (See Romans 10:10- "for with the heart man believeth unto righteousness...."). This way, God gets the glory and we are motivated by love and gratitude. Instead of drudgery and duty, we delight in bringing Him glory. I Corinthians 15:58 reminds us that it is our labor in the Lord not our labor for the Lord that is not in vain. Thinker (Ron)