My wife and I were sitting in our lounge, enjoying an early morning cup of tea and waiting for a Sunday morning Christian Radio programme to start at 7 am. I was busy on my computer, looked at the clock and asked my wife, as it was only 6:10, if we should have an early breakfast. Subconsciously, I was aware that a news update had started, and I thought it was unusual at that time. Then our programme started, and I realised that the clock had stopped at 6.10 am. I placed a new battery next to the clock, intending to replace it after breakfast, only to return later and find the clock working.
This incident reminded me that things we rely on and take for granted may, one day, let us down, and sadly, we do not realise it soon enough.
A few days earlier, I was in a meeting with nine other Christians, and a lady I respect for her regular practical contribution to the group surprised me when she said that if a person becomes a Christian and then later walks away from God, that person will no longer be saved. She also quoted some scriptures to support her comment. Somewhat shocked, I tried to balance her comments with a few scriptures that assure me that my understanding was different. Our discussion was amiable and without tension, and we parted still friends.
I have heard countless warnings about taking phrases and verses out of context, and my recent experience was a warning about how we understand what the Bible teaches. In a recent contribution, I used the statement “Why I need the Holy Spirit”. I didn’t appreciate how soon after submitting that article, I would prove how essential that is, even more so when enjoying Christian fellowship.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I pray that we will be guided by Your truths, so that we may have assurance about our relationship with You. AMEN