Going Deeper With God.

“For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.  For he who said, You shall not commit adultery, also said, “You shall not murder.^] If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker.” James. 2:10-11.

We live in an Age of Self, the language that fills our vocabulary seems to glorify personal choice above all other values: self-determination, self-knowledge, self-esteem, self-help, even do-it-yourself. Under such a climate, no doctrine is safe, no corporate dictation is accepted without personal scrutiny. The touchstone of belief today is the individual, not the corporate institution. The same way the  voters talk back at their political leaders in shows and town hall meetings, that is the same way they these days talk back at the priests and pastors in church. Reverence seems to be lacking amongst this generation. The phrase "cafeteria Christians" describes those who pick and choose among church teachings which one suits them the most to obey. 

So our churches are now exactly like fast food restaurants where we whip up quick fixes for your personal enjoyment. Even though most of the food is not healthy. "Have it your way." is the catchphrase of this generation. Unfortunately, you can't have it your way and please God. If you are ready to please God you must be willing to have it His way. His way is expressed copiously and emphatically in the bible. Don't select what to obey in the bible, it's equivalent to cherry picking. The whole mind of God must be embraced and obeyed. To stop being a "cafeteria Christian" picking and choosing which doctrines to follow based on personal comfort or convenience—requires a commitment to the full authority of Scripture and surrendered obedience. 

Instead of only studying comforting verses, commit to reading and understanding the entire Bible. Stop skipping difficult topics like repentance, holiness, or sacrifice, even tithing and recognize that all Scripture is designed for spiritual growth, not just comfort. A cafeteria Christian accepts the doctrines that fit their lifestyle and ignores those that do not. Stopping this means following Christ even when it is uncomfortable or costly. Rather than ignoring or justifying behaviours that go against Scripture, recognize sin when it is revealed, even if it is a beloved habit. True faith requires making war on apathy and repenting immediately rather than rationalizing disobedience. Move beyond shallow, sentimental issues to studying the whole Bible on a daily basis, then you will not just understand God's rules, but the "why" behind the rules.

FURTHER READING:

“Samuel said, “Does the LORD delight as much in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the LORD? Surely, to obey is better than sacrifice, to pay attention is better than the fat of rams.” 1 Sam. 15:22.

“But he answered, “It is written, ‘One must not live on bread alone, but on every word coming out of the mouth of God.” Matt. 4:4. 

DECLARATION: 

Dear Abba Father, I thank You for the gift of life and the privilege of salvation. Father, I come before You with a humble heart, asking for the grace to walk in complete obedience to Your Word. Lord, I desire to align my life—my thoughts, words, and actions—with Your divine will. Forgive me for the times I have followed my own desires instead of Your commands. Create in me a heart that delights in Your laws, and give me the strength to follow them immediately and fully, not just when it is easy in the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:

1 Chron. 12:1-40.

1 Chron. 13:1-14.

1 Chron. 14:1-17.

QUOTE FOR THE DAY:

“We Are Sent To Save The World Not To Suit The World. When We Start Suiting Them We Stop Saving Them Because We Have Compromised The Truth.”