Bible Thoughts

December 7, 2003

Words are but ways in which we identify an object, an emotion, an action, an attitude, and a host of other ways in which we express ourselves as humans. God has given mankind an excellent and marvelous way in which to communicate to others. The proper use of words found in the scriptures can provoke us to anger, to joy, to sadness, to hope, and to any number of emotions and reactions. Our society is fascinated many times with four letter words--but not always the proper words. Four letter words to some are but a means of expressing their anger and frustration because of the unhappiness in their lives. Yet, the scriptures contain many four letter words that can be used each day to strengthen one's faith in the Lord and His word.

"Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is begotten of God, and knoweth God"(I John 1:7).

One of the strongest emotions that God has given to humans is that of love. Love is found in the disciple of Christ; love of truth is found in the seeker for righteous conduct; love must be in a marriage; love is expected in the home. The love of God was manifest when he sent His son to die of the cross for each and every human. Christians have a love for all men, and particularly, those who are fellow disciples. In the absence of the four letter word love, once cannot please the Creator.

"Take heed to thyself, and to thy teaching. Continue in these things; for in doing this thou shalt save both thyself and them that hear thee"(I Timothy 4:16).

Jehovah sent His Son into a sin cursed world to die for the transgressions of mankind. Only through that sacrifice is it possible for any person to become acceptable to the Lord. Those who desire to be saved through His sacrifice must accept His word and obey the commands contained therein. When one's faith leads to obedience in becoming a Christian as well as continuing faithful to the commands of the New Testament, he will be saved. The only salvation of the soul that is offered to mankind is through the gospel of Christ.

The religious world as a whole has failed to give heed to the commands of Jesus Christ as revealed in the New Testament. If one truly desires to be saved, obedience to the words of truth will occur, while realizing the teachings of men cannot save.

"But the word of the Lord abideth forever. And this is the word of good tidings which was preached unto you"(I Peter 1:25-26).

The people whom Peter is addressing had heard the gospel of Christ and accepted the commands contained therein. They were washed from their sins by the blood of Christ through their obedience. Only the word of God could save them. The same is true in our day. Men may pervert, ignore, and challenge the commands of the New Testament, but the truth is still found within the pages of the inspired revelation. Obedience to the word makes one a Christian; continuing to obey the word of God keeps one saved. The word reveals all that is necessary for one to believe and follow. The commands and doctrines of men subvert, change, and corrupt the word of God and lead those who follow error into the paths of unrighteousness. As one accepts the word, the disciple seeks to please the Lord through following the path laid out by God for every disciple each day.

"But thanks to God, who putteth the same earnest care for you in the heart of Titus"(II Corinthians 8:16).

Titus exemplifies the heart of a disciple of Christ. He cared for the brethren at Corinth. The care that this brother had for them is evident from what Paul wrote concerning this faithful soldier. Christians care! They are interested in the spiritual(and physical) needs of fellow saints. The care is expressed in word and in deed. Sacrifice to assist those who please the Lord is characteristic of one who loves the Lord and loves the brethren. Please note that Paul described the care of Titus as being earnest. This word is defined as "Marked by or showing deep sincerity or seriousness"(American Heritage Dictionary). There is no question but that care will be found in a faithful follower of the Master.

"See that none render unto any one evil for evil; but always follow after that which is good, one toward another, and toward all"(I Thessalonians 5:15).

Good originates within the heart of a faithful disciple. One who desires to be good will study the scriptures and follow after the commands of God to identify what is good. As the Christian fills his heart with that which is expected in treatment toward others, only good can come from his word and his actions. Being good is not a pretense; it must come from within. Paul is pointing out that such is extended even beyond fellow saints. There is no pretense in the one who is doing good to others. One fears that our current society is mixed up about how to be good to others. A kind word, a little encouragement, and an expression of care can be good to those who need our concern. Be good to someone today! It will bring you a pleasant tomorrow.

"In hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised before times eternal"(Titus 1:2).

Every person who follows the commands of the Gospel of Christ receives the hope of eternal life. It is guaranteed to those who faithfully serve the Lord. Each saint patiently waits for the reward of eternal life. Hence, that hope is with them in their daily lives. The kind of life they live is motivated by the hope of eternal life. Such disciples will place the Lord and His way first in one's life. All decisions are weighed in the light of whether what one plans to do will endanger the hope of eternal life. The dedication of a few short years in this life is a small price to pay for the eternity of Heaven. Jesus died for us that we might have access to eternal joy and happiness in Heaven. Let each of us place the Lord and His word first in our thoughts and our lives.

"And be not afraid of them that kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell"(Matthew 10:28).

This four letter word is used as a by-word in a large part of our society. It is a proper word to identify the fate of those who fail to follow the commands of the Lord. In the absence of the four letter words in the above paragraphs, one will be in eternity in Hell.