1 Thessalonians 5:11 (KJV)

Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (KJV)

Friday, November 30, 2012

Day 258: What Does God Say?

 

Acts 17:12
Many of the Jews believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men.
 
 
 

Thoughts for Today:

"Here's what I think. What do you think?" Too often that is a typical discussion among Christians on just about every topic we encounter. I hate to tell you this, but what I think or what you think doesn't matter much. What we should be discussing is what God (through the Bible) says about it. From our passage today, that is what led many of the Jews to believe as well as a number of prominent Greek women and men. It was their independent study of what Paul said, validated by Scripture, that led to their belief (Acts 17:13, "[they] examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true").

The most authoritative answer to any question or problem is what God says about it through His Word. Are you having an ethical issue with a work project? Don't ask Dr. Phil, ask God through Scripture. Are you having problems in your marriage? Don't ask Dr. Ruth, consult the Bible. Are you having a problem with a son or daughter at home? Don't rely only on Dr. Dobson's opinion (as good as it might be); always independently validate through Scripture that it is indeed God's intended solution. Then you (like the Jews and Greeks) will believe; not in man's words but in the Word of the Father, and you will have confidence that what you are doing is right.
 
 

Questions to Ponder:

When you are confronted with a difficult decision, who do you consult with -- a friend, mentor, or spouse? How serious are you about listening to what God says about your problem? Do you find it difficult to relate Scripture to every day life and to your immediate problem?

The key here in verse 13 is in the word "examined"; this does not mean a superficial reading of God's Word, but rather a careful inspection and study in great detail in order to gain understanding. That is why I asked the question -- How serious are you about finding what God says about your problem? God's answers aren't quick and easy, but the right answers never are.

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