Before adulthood tends to complicate life, children can wear their emotions on their sleeves. Young people celebrate achievements with exuberance and gleeful satisfaction. Unfortunately, at some point while growing up, minds become convinced that certain activities, beliefs and faiths are inappropriate. Thus, peer pressure may cause something you were once proud of to be replaced with shame.
For what does it benefit a man to gain the whole world [with all its pleasures], and forfeit his soul? 37 For what will a man give in exchange for his soul and eternal life [in God’s kingdom]? – Mark 8:36-37.
Prior to the mass shooting that took the lives of 17 victims, students at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida weren’t experts on gun control. Yet, in the days that have followed this tragic event, teenagers have been regularly used on cable news networks to ban, limit or repeal the second amendment. Instead of correcting the flaws in their school safety policy or address the failure of school security guards to react, guns continue to be demonized along with those who own or use a gun.
For whoever is ashamed [here and now] of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels,” Mark 8:38.
This persecution of gun owners relates to Jesus’ words above. How you respond to the Bible, faith and Jesus in public will influence how God treats you. Those who disown their faith amidst criticism, pressure to conform or progressive views will be shunned by God. Thus, you can’t be halfway, its either all or nothing. Will you be ashamed due to what others think or will a zeal for the Lord reveal pride for God? May the passage above serve as inspiration to strengthen your faith so that your choice is clear.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 