August 15, 2010

THE ULTIMATE

TEST

Scripture Reading--John 8:29

"And he that sent me is with me:

the Father hath not left me alone;

for I do always those things that please him."

Read the Scripture reading again.  See if you can find the most important word.  Here's a hint:  The word starts with the letter a.  You got it!  It's the word always.  First, let's be sure we understand that the Lord Jesus is speaking here.  Now let's read the verse again but leave out the word always.  Lots of us could say what Jesus did if we left out this keyword.  Of course, we do things that please God.  But when Jesus used the word always, He said something we ought to say but usually can't.

When we determine to live in a God-pleasing way, we must ask one question to evaluate everything in our lives.  The question is, "Is God pleased?"  You may have your own opinion, and others may give you their thoughts.  The world may try to push its ideas down your throat.  Yet we must determine what God wants and do it!

George Mueller wrote, "There was a day when I died, utterly died, died to George Mueller, his opinions, his preferences, tastes and will--died to the world, its approval or censure--died to the approval or blame even of my brethren and friends.  Since then I have studied only to show myself approved unto God."  This man understood that pleasing God was all that mattered, and he determined to obey no matter what.

Hebrews 11:5 tells us about Enoch, a man who walked with God.  "He had this testimony, that he pleased God" ( v. 5b ).  What a testimony and example for us to follow!  May we live in such a way that others will say of us someday, "He [ or she ] pleased God."

THINK ABOUT IT:  How would you like others to remember your life?  List several ideas.

--Tom Palmer--