Scripture Graphics #86

All of these points are reiterated for New Testament believers--yet, do we doubt God? He is not man to forget His promises or change His. Words (or "what I really meant was..."). He is faithful! Our human eyes cannot see the whole picture; we have to take God at His Word and trust Him no matter what the circumstances are.

“Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing.” Psalms‬ ‭107:21-22

We often think of all of the sacrifices which we make in a day—a sacrifice of time, money, talents, rights, etc. Today, though, why not make an effort to sacrifice some praise to God?

“Ye shall observe to do therefore as the LORD your God hath commanded you: ye shall not turn aside to the right hand or to the left. Ye shall walk in all the ways which the LORD your God hath commanded you, that ye may live, and that it may be well with you, and that ye may prolong your days in the land which ye shall possess.” Deuteronomy 5:32-33

“If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” John 14:15

Keeping God’s commandments are not for His benefit. He created all things; nothing that we do will enrich His life and make it beneficial. *But*…keeping the commandments will surely enrich our lives and benefit us. God has provided so many lessings for us to tap into for a rich and full life—but we have to be diligent to do our part.

Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. (James 4:5-8)

When things are going awry, plans thwarted, and my attitude souring, I need to check some things. Am I seeking God’s grace to overcome my natural tendencies to envy and pride? Am I resisting (standing against, opposing) the devil or giving place to him (Eph ‪4:27‬)? Am I fully submitting to God—with my ideas, plans, hopes, dreams? Is my main desire to draw nigh to God? When I honestly evaluate myself in light of Scripture, do I then take the next step to change what is lacking? “Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.” (James 4:17)

Share a verse from your reading this week.