Delbert! Stick out your hand!

For it was through reading the scripture that I came to realize that I could never find God’s favor by trying and failing to obey the laws. I came to realize that acceptance with God comes by believing in Christ. Galatians 2:19

I think it is ingrained in us from the time we were kids to try to please others by doing good deeds. We tried to please our parents by obeying them, doing our chores, keeping our room clean. If we did, life was good. If not, well, let’s just say, parents have ways of showing their displeasure.

Same with teachers. Good behavior meant privileges. Bad behavior meant time-outs. Whacks on the back of the hand with a ruler. Yep, they actually did that back in my day. In fact, my fourth grade teacher once made all the boys line up and bend over against the chalkboard, then she took a tennis shoe and gave us a whack on the okole (look that one up in your Hawaiian dictionary – oh-koh’-lay. Hint – it’s not the back of your hand!).

So it is only natural that we try to please God with our good works. Maybe we’ll get extra privileges. Definitely don’t want Him whacking our okole with a tenny runner!

Well, nothing against good works. He appreciates our acts of kindness. But they will never get us into heaven. We cannot buy our salvation. It is only through faith in Christ that we have eternal life.

More and more, I am convinced that my time in the Word each day, jotting down the thoughts he shares with me, is the best discipline I have ever developed. Paul is saying that as we read the scripture, we come to understand the things that are important to God. The things that enable us to gain his acceptance.

It’s not about works. Not about good deeds. It’s all about faith in his Son, Jesus Christ.

 

Two keys to getting your prayers answered

But dearly loved friends, if our consciences are clear, we can come to the Lord with perfect assurance and trust and get whatever we ask for because we are obeying Him. 1 John 3:21,22 (LB)

I have two keys that let me into my house; one is for the doorknob, the other for the deadbolt. Without them both, I’m looking for a window to climb through.

In today’s verse, I see two keys to getting our prayers answered. One without the other and we’re left standing on the porch.

The first key is a clear conscience. We’re doing our best to live in holiness, avoiding the tripwires that arouse the  flesh. When we do stumble and fall, we get back to our feet, ask forgiveness, learn from our mistakes, and continue straight ahead.

The second key is obedience. When God speaks, we are quick to say, “Yes!” No second-guessing His plan. No rebellion. No moaning and groaning if the assignment is tough. We are eager to obey His voice. “How high would you like me to jump?”

Holiness and obedience, two keys that will open the door to His Heavenly warehouse. Step inside. You’ll find everything you need.