Scripture Graphics 30

I wonder just how much neglecting the story of creation has led to things like abortion -- and even devaluing life itself. There is something awe-inspiring about man's creation that leads to God's wonderful plan and command of procreation. But if one thinks that we evolved, what special value has life? If humans didn't even start out as being humans, in the world's eyes, then no wonder they believe that the babe in the womb is not a living person. How important the truth of creation is!

God saw. Not only did He see man's actions, but more importantly, He also saw their hearts and thoughts.

And when He saw them, He didn't say, "Well they're not really *that* bad" or excuse it with, "That's just how man is." The evil grieved Him (vs. 6) and He sent His judgment through a flood.

If we understand how God views sin from the beginning of time, it will help us to understand His standards, instead of us explaining away our sin.

"And he went on his journeys from the south even to Bethel...and there Abram called on the name of the LORD....Then Abram removed his tent, and came and dwelt in the plain of Mamre, which is in Hebron, and built there an altar unto the LORD." Genesis 13:3, 4, 18

Why did Abram's and Lot's stories end up differently? Abram had also gone places he shouldn't have, yet God brought him out without the drastic affect like Lot had. I think the answer is in these verses: Abram continually sought God every step of the way. Can that be said of us? Or are we, like Lot, pitching out tent toward the world instead of toward God?

These two concepts are amazing to meditate on. Though spoken to Abraham, we see through Scripture that these promises weren't exclusively for him. God is our shield and our exceeding great reward. Is this enough for us?

I love how, in many Psalms, the Psalmist is so overwhelmed, yet by the end of the Psalm, He is reminding himself of God's character -- how He hears prayers, is merciful, faithful, the list goes on. 
If we pray, but never lose that sense of being overwhelmed, are we truly coming to God and *casting* our cares upon Him? Or are we telling Him our troubles, yet still clinging to them, not certain He'll hear or help? Such shows a lack of faith and knowledge of God. Because He *does* hear the prayer of His child and He does help, according to His wisdom.