What is your "Why"?

Proverbs 3:1-4 “My son, do not forget my law, but let your heart keep my commands; For length of days and long life and peace they will add to you. Let not mercy and truth forsake you; Bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart, and so find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man.”

This last Sunday, Pastor Kyle continued in our 2020 Vision sermon series. There is an old saying that the only thing that never changes is the fact that everything changes. Though we know from verses like Malachi 3:6a “For I the Lord do not change.” that God never changes, our lives experience many changes over time. In our striving for consistency and growth in life, we need to ask “Why?” things happen, are the standards and are important. Knowing the “whys” in life and living gives us faithful purpose and positive direction that when the changes in life happen, we make smooth transitions. Everyone would say that they would want a better life and better relationships in it.

Religion as defined in the 1828 Webster’s dictionary, in its most comprehensive sense, includes a belief in the being and perfections of God, in the revelation of his will to man, in man's obligation to obey his commands, in a state of reward and punishment, and in man's accountableness to God; and also true godliness or piety of life, with the practice of all moral duties. It therefore comprehends theology, as a system of doctrines or principles, as well as practical piety; for the practice of moral duties without a belief in a divine lawgiver, and without reference to his will or commands, is not religion. So, religion, as distinct from theology, is godliness or real piety in practice, consisting in the performance of all known duties to God and our fellow men, in obedience to divine command, or from love to God and his law. I heard the religion is mankind’s attempt to reach God by godly living. Others have stated that religion says to “do more” and “try to be better”. But, these simplified lack the godly belief and heart dedication, devotion and desire that drive the righteous and holy actions. Everyone would say they want the favorable results that come from keeping a “right” relationship with God, but few embrace the responsibility it takes to get there.

Deuteronomy 6:4-7 “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.”

Let's continue Pastor Kyle's message on our "WHY" in the next post.

In Christ, Brian