You Can Only Save Yourself ~
If I let my mate have their way, they may treat me better.
If I pray long and hard enough, maybe theyÆll go to church. If I
share everything IÆm learning, perhaps some of it will rub off.
If IÆm completely obedient and submissive, they will get saved.
But, God says - you canÆt save anyone but yourself, Ez. 14:14.
If I choose my childrenÆs friends, I can guard their
influence. If I keep them at my side, perhaps no harm will come.
If I teach them about God from dusk ætil dawn, they will never
stray. If I do home schooling, I can keep them from the evil
one.
But, God says - you canÆt save anyone but yourself, Ez. 14:16.
If I study all week, my Sunday School class will receive my
lesson. If I speak with tears and emotion, theyÆll know all I
say is true. If I keep insisting what I believe, theyÆll finally
get it. If I serve all over the church, others will, too.
But, God says - you canÆt save anyone but yourself, Ez. 14:18.
If I dress just right, the world will know IÆm a Christian.
If I let people walk on me, theyÆll know my God is real. If I do
everything perfectly, others will follow. If I give away all my
possessions, theyÆll want what I have.
But, God says - you canÆt save anyone but yourself, Ez. 14:20.
Do you suppose God knew we wouldnÆt get it the first time?
Our outside appearance doesnÆt mean anything until itÆs a
by-product of whatÆs on the inside. Our faith is not to be in
who we are, but in who God is.
If weÆd put all that focus and energy unto our own spiritual
growth, just think of the great things we might accomplish!
When our relationship with God is first on our list of
priorities, He gives a very special promise. HeÆll leave a
remnant for those we love, Ez. 14:22.
® by Joyce C. Lock
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About the Author:
Joyce C. Lock founded and maintains the email ministries
"Heavenly Inspirations"
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/HeavenlyInspirations/ and
"Share a Smile"
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/smilesharing/ .
She also has a published e-book, "The Difference",
which can be purchased here:
http://www.theeaglesgarden.com/
