I enjoy the excitement that comes just by walking New York streets. Window-shopping is good; however, watching people is the beginning of real excitement. You find every type, shape, and kind of person somewhere on the streets, good and bad. Most people are kind and considerate, a few harsh and sarcastic, and a small minority are out to hustle your pocket book. I am not one for a fast buck, so I avoid the games; I cannot imagine you even coming close! Decades and centuries of losing have done nothing to dampen the arrogance and belief for some that they will be the first to outsmart the bad guys. The suckers continue to give a bit of money or more.
Things are not much different when it comes to God. Many people lose their way, even before they begin. “I want you also to be smart, making sure every “good” think is the real thing. Don't be gullible in regard to smooth-talking evil.” (Romans 16.18) There are just as many ways as the street to lose your bearing.
One mistake is to believe that one knows what God is going to say. You justify your arrogance with clich?s and assumptions that have little bearing on the specific situation you are in. The day begins. Obviously, God wants what is best for you and me. Isn't this right? The logic continues that “best” means, and we begin to fill in the blanks. Usually what we believe God wants for us is not bad; it is just not want God wants!
Another mistake forms when we know exactly what God looks and sounds like. Again, we have no real facts to found the information on, however that is rarely a deterrent. I am as guilty as anyone when it comes to this – so as God speaks in a way that I do not imagine as possible, I am deaf to His words, encouragement, and direction.
God is consistent, always compassionate, and undeterred in his mission. God loves you and me unconditionally. Are you ready to accept God?
