Wish they could stay fresh forever

Well I’m sad to see the flowers from our daughter’s wedding slowly wither and fade this week, but that’s what happens to flowers.  The good news is the wonderful memories still linger. As I look at these flowers, I’m reminded of a Bible verse that I learned when I was a child. “The grass withers and the flower fades, but the word of God will stand forever.” Certainly flowers are wonderful to enjoy, but they are also a reminder of how temporary most things are in life.  We need to build our lives on what is lasting.  The principles in God’s word will never fade away, and when we walk according to His ways we experience beauty in life.  In our current culture some of God’s principles are frowned upon, yet their truth stands the test of time.  Consider the following two areas of obedience.

Sexual Purity.   There are those who scoff at the idea of saving yourself until marriage, but obedience to God’s word is always the best way.  Trust, respect and joy are built when a couple waits until marriage.  My daughter and her husband were committed to staying pure until they married, and they did! Yes it can be done in today’s world! I want to encourage you to stand on the principles of God’s word and keep sex within the bonds of marriage.  Your life will be happier and healthier if you do.

Honesty and Integrity. Tell the truth, don’t take what isn’t yours, own up to your mistakes and don’t tell stories and blame someone else.  This week my phone was stolen, yet we were able to track it down, get it back, and the thief was caught and fired from his job. Dishonesty has consequences. Integrity strengthens your reputation and your credibility.  Just because you can take something that isn’t yours, doesn’t mean you ought to take someone else’s property.  Just because you can cheat, doesn’t mean you ought to do it.  Do what is right and people will respect and trust you.  There are unhappy consequences when we disobey God’s commands. 

C. H. Spurgeon said, “Obedience is the hallmark of faith.” As Christ followers, let us stand upon the sure foundation of the principles found in God’s word. Granted, not one of us is perfect, but God’s word is our standard for life.  As we live by it we enjoy a beauty that will not fade.

Psalm 19 reminds us:

The law of the  ⁷ The law of the LORD is perfect,
       reviving the soul.
       The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy,
       making wise the simple.

 ⁸ The precepts of the LORD are right,
       giving joy to the heart.
       The commands of the LORD are radiant,
       giving light to the eyes.

 ⁹ The fear of the LORD is pure,
       enduring forever.
       The ordinances of the LORD are sure
       and altogether righteous.

 ¹⁰ They are more precious than gold,
       than much pure gold;
       they are sweeter than honey,
       than honey from the comb.

 ¹¹ By them is your servant warned;
       in keeping them there is great reward.

 ¹² Who can discern his errors?
       Forgive my hidden faults.

 ¹³ Keep your servant also from willful sins;
       may they not rule over me.
       Then will I be blameless,
       innocent of great transgression.

 ¹⁴ May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
       be pleasing in your sight,
       O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.

For those of you in North Dallas – I look forward to seeing you at PWC next Tuesday!