Friday, August 24, 2012

RECONCILIATION IS ESSENTIAL


“Come now, and let us reason together, says the Lord" Isaiah 1:18
It is plain to see today that many who pursue peace expect God to pardon them, although they care nothing for His honor and remain totally ignorant of Him and of His Son Jesus. 
They want God to make peace with them while they make war with Him and His Word. 
Like a thief at the bar, this kind of person implores the judge to spare his life by whatever means, right or wrong, legal or illegal. What difference does it make as long as he is pardoned? Does this man consider the honor of the judge? Well, do not be deceived, because God will not make war among His own attributes to make peace with you.

Reconciliation must seek to have fellowship with God. Suppose God should confide, "I am your friend-- I have commanded that you will never go to hell. And My hand holds your discharge so you can never be arrested for indebtedness to Me. But as for fellowship, do not expect any. I am through with you now and you will never know Me better." If you heard the Father say this, how excited would you be about your peace? Even if the tormenting fires were put out, the anguish of a hell would remain in the dismal darkness without God's presence.

Absalom saw no middle ground between seeing his father's face and being killed. "Let me see the king's face; and if there be any iniquity in me, let him kill me" 2 Samuel 14:2. "If I am not worthy to enjoy my father's love and presence," he pledged, "I do not want to live." On the other hand, an ungodly heart gropes for peace without any longing after fellowship with God. Like the traitor, he is ready to promise the king anything, if only he will save him from execution. 
God will not talk with you as long as your sword is in your hand. "Come now, and let us reason together, says the Lord" Isaiah 1:18.

Quoted material from, ”The Christian in Complete Armour Daily Readings in Spiritual Warfare” by Gurnall and James S Bell. http://www.moodypublishers.com/pub_productDetail.aspx?id=41823&pid=53617

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