As of now, everyone is perfect in 2015 as God has wiped everyone’s slate clean, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. However, its only a matter of time before someone says, “I can’t believe I just said that!” It only takes a minuscule act, slight compromise or momentary lapse in judgment to ensnare a soul forever. As this new year begins, what’s saving you from shame?
Then I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands. – Psalm 119:6
Eve’s world began with perfection, no afflictions, illness or pain to complain about. With only one rule to follow, Genesis 2:15-17, everything was available to the first family except for the Tree of Knowledge. Unfortunately, it didn’t take long for Lucifer to plant seeds of disobedience on the earth, Genesis 3:1. Instead of walking away from temptation, Eve thought she could handle it own her own, excluding the Lord and her husband from this conversation, Genesis 3:2-6. Once you engage temptation, shame often follows, Genesis 3:7.
The Psalmist provides helpful hints to keep your reputation clean in 2015.
1) Be steadfast in obeying God’s decrees, Psalm 119:5.
2) Avoid careless mistakes by memorizing God’s commands in the Bible, Psalm 119:6.
3) Devote your heart to righteousness, Matthew 5:6.
4) Cling to purity by walking in the ways of the Lord, Psalm 119:9.
5) Hide God’s Word in your heart to remain on the narrow path, Psalm 119:10.
Although Calvinists might say you’re destined to fail, solely reliant on God’s grace, the apostle Paul suggests that you have some say in your day to day decisions, Philippians 2:12. Essentially, Paul is warning individuals about getting too comfortable like Eve, 1 Corinthians 10:11-12. As Solomon once said, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight,” Proverbs 3:5-6. By following this advice, God willing, you will be saved from shame in 2015 and beyond.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 