They say... seeing is believing. And there are many who want it to be spelled out, proven and factual, placed right in front of them before they will put their stamp of approval on it. But the crazy thing is... even if those people took a little ride back in time to the days of Jesus... if they could SEE in order that they might believe, most likely they would be in the same boat they are today. Unbelieving. But although He had done so many signs before them, they did not believe in Him, that the word of Isaiah the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spoke: “Lord, who has believed our report? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? John 12:37-38 NKJV It would seem that even seeing does not cause believing. And worse yet, sometimes seeing mixed with a bit too much pride actually caused offense. But when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that He did, and the children crying out in the temple and saying, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” they were indignant and said to Him, “Do You hear what these are saying?” And Jesus said to them, “Yes. Have you never read, ‘Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have perfected praise’?” Matthew 21:15-16 How very odd to me that people of any position could see something wonderful, something amazing and truly out of this world... and become indignant. This means to be offended, or insulted, typically due to inner pride. Which is why Jesus replied so. Those who appreciated Him, were the ones who weren't trying to be better than, or comparing themselves to Him, but rather enjoying what He brought. But there were some who did believe... Nevertheless even among the rulers many believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. John 12:42-43 This to be sure the downfall of our hearts. Even when we believe... But loving the praise of men more than the praise of God. And it's so easy to fall into. I do it all too often. And I think it may be because we don't hear God audibly... telling us, 'Good Job!' But we long for that pat on the back, or that quick reward. So we will get it any way possible. Even if it's a short return here on earth. But if we can just look past the now and see further to remember the example set before us... Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. Philippians 2:4-7 Better to stay the long course, putting aside our pride, humbling ourself as a servant just as He did. And let us seek to please Him in all we do... first and foremost offering our praise heavenward as children. Believing without seeing. Holdiing out for eternal riches rather than earthly praise. Word of God train me today... To let go of my pride and seek to be more childlike in perfect praise. To stand back and take in the wonder of You; ever believing, always pressing in.
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January 2019
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