Reflections from March 11, 2010

Today in Hebrews 8:6 we read, "But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, inasmuch as He is also Mediator of a better covenant, which was established on better promises."

If we feel like we're trapped in our current situation wanting a fresh start in things in our life, this verse can give us hope. Just as Jesus brought a new Covenant for the Jews, breaking the bondage they had to the old Covenant set with Abraham, we can break our bondage to old, unbreakable patterns and replace them. All we need to do first is confess the condition and accept God's provision. The joy of confession, apology and repentance can open the door to new ways in our life.

Proverbs 11:6 reads, "The righteousness of the upright will deliver them, But the unfaithful will be caught by their lust."

Proverbs often contrasts the righteous and the wicked, indicating two categories of people; those who honor God by the way they live, and those who dishonor Him. However, its important to keep in mind that even the righteous are apt to sin at times, and when they give in to temptation, they must face the consequences even as the wicked do. Sin has consequences as King David found out. We may try to rationalize it with the thought, "What difference does it make, as long as no one else is hurt by it and no one knows about it?" But sin does make a difference. It hurts us when we commit it, and it remains in our conscience, even if no one finds out.

If we are wise, we will take steps to escape sin's snares before we are trapped by it. God provides us with what we need to do that, if we will just look to Him.

Blessings to all