Often the sincerity of Christians comes into question. For there is much talk of God, and His Word. Talk of this outreach, and that program. Talk of desires and yearning’s to be used of God; to be a benefit to the Kingdom of God. Talk of desires for a closer walk with God; to know the heart and mind of Christ, the width and depth of His love, and to know the intimacy of His presence. Talk of desires to know His will and purpose for them, and therein fulfill His will. Yet, after all their talk, there is little to no fruition. No evidence of progression or that they’ve even yet set out that they might obtain. If anything they show signs of regression. They’re static.
Perhaps it’s because among this talk there is also talk of doubt. Talk of unbelief. Talk of the newest movements, people, books, and interruptions within “Christianity.” Maybe this is why their dealing with doubts, and unbelief. Why they’ve become static. Why they’ve regressed, and have found themselves stained with the muck of iniquity. But the true reason for they're stagnation, they're regresstion is this: they're unwilling. They’re unwilling to pay the necessary price, and sacrifice their selfish indulgences which is required for the Lord to bring them into their supposed desires. Unwilling to lay aside the weights, and sins that do so easily beset them. Unwilling to forsake all; to let go of their lust of the flesh, and the world. Unwilling to let go of the traditions, and doctrines of men that steal from them true salvation, that they might come into the light of the glorious gospel of Christ. Unwilling to fall on their knees in repentance, and cry out to God. Unwilling to endure the cross, to crucify the flesh, and bring down every thought and imagination under the authority of God. Unwilling to endure the shame and reproach for the name of Christ. Unwilling to fast that they might bring their flesh under subjection to God’s Holy Word. Unwilling to sit at the feet of Jesus, the very Word of God, that they might find strength, nourishment, guidance, and power in this perverse and backslidden world. Unwilling to be lead by His Spirit that they might come into His presence. Unwilling to trust God at His Word, and in faith believe. Unwilling in heart, and mind. Unwilling to count the cost; unwilling to pay the price.
Yet, I know there is a remnant of people who are willing; who will pay the price. For there are those who have paid the price; for I have read it in God’s Word, and have heard it told through out the ages. Of those who believed God at His Word. Who choose to suffer affliction rather then enjoy this world, and sin. Who esteemed the reproach of Christ rather then riches, and glory. Who having forsook all endured trials, temptations, and persecution. Who gave their lives, not accepting deliverance, for they knew in whom they believe; the Almighty. And in this age there will be those who will be called upon to take a stand for righteousness, and as those before them; pay the price.
Therefore, it is now unto us to choose. To choose whom, and what we will be followers of. To choose whether to be as those who are given to much talk and ado, but have no sustenance. To choose whether we will be as those who with lip service make much mention of God, but it word and works deny Him. Or will you choose to be a hearer of God’s Word. A believer of His gospel, His Word, and His promises. And most importantly, will you choose to be a doer of His Word; forsaking all, enduring all, and giving your life for the one who gave you His. Talk or do; the choice is yours.
“He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.” ~ Mark 7:6
“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” ~ James 1:22
