Basic Doctrine and Encouragement in the Faith
"Contend Earnestly for the Faith"
According to Jude 1-11, we see a call back to believers. We are to be sharing the Gospel with others and growing in our faith; however, the fact of the matter is that many Christians are leaving the faith because it is (1) too hard to live a life for God or (2) they don't like the standards that should be in place for a believer in Christ Jesus. Jude mentions in verses 1 and 2 that believers are: called by God, sanctified by God, and preserved through the sacrifice and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. Jude reminds believers of who they are and their standing before God, and then he continues on with an unleashed zeal against those who profane the grace of God through the Gospel by creating their own gods and seeking to leave the faith.
They depart when they no longer acknowledge who is in charge. They either deny God exists, or they pretend that it's a clear fact that God cannot exist. Either way, they can live in a delusional world "without God". Jude however does not push anything of the sort that Christians can lose their salvation. What he is stating is that Christians are not acting like they ought to anymore. For a believer to leave the faith and chase after the world would be as though a wall thought of itself as a dresser. It's completely preposterous that that would be even considered as fact because the wall is still a wall. Christians may pretend to be part of the world after they've "left" the faith, but they are still sanctified in Christ.
Jude's call to repentance comes from a heart seeking those souls to come back to God and be who God has created them to be, not continuing to wallow in the sin that He saved you from. Remember this as you live your life for Christ. Never forget what God has done for you, and how you ought to live in light of that truth...
"Good Morning, Mercy!"
Lamentations 3:22-23 says, "The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; His mercies never come to an end. They are new every morning; great is Your Faithfulness!"
Remember, dear Christians, that God's mercy is renewed every morning like the rising sun. His boundless compassion knows no bounds, and with each new day, He offers a clean slate, a chance for redemption, and a shower of blessings. Just as the dawn brings light to the world, God's mercy illuminates our hearts, bringing hope, forgiveness, and endless opportunities for spiritual growth. Embrace esch day with gratitude, knowing that His love and mercy are constant, guiding you through every challenge. With faith as your guide, let His unwavering mercy inspire you to be compassionate, forgiving, filled with love and joy spreading His grace to everyone you encounter! Take joy in what He has for you to accomplish today, and be as eager to fulfill His task for tomorrow when the day comes around...
Ezekiel 1:1-3 Observation
Ezekiel held an earthly position but was still receptive to whatever God called him to do. Even though Israel's king was dethroned, the Lord God was and still is in control of everything that takes place. Be willing to be used by God and never forget that whatever God has planned for you, He is sovereign, and that should bring us peace as we seek to glorify God with our lives. Do not sit around waiting for God's Will for you to come like some spectacular vision! That's a waste of the time He has given you! Take the opportunities to serve that He has set before you and work diligently at whatever your job is!
Woe of Men vs Wisdom of God
Through the fog of worldly "knowledge" and "truth", God is neither dethroned nor humbled. In fact, in God's eyes, if ever God was humbled, He would still be wiser than the smartest man in the world. If ever God was weak, He would still be stronger than the strongest man in the world. Who am I to assume that our calling from God is foolish and weak?!?!
Consider, Seek, and Live out the calling that God has for you, and you will be amazed at what He can do. "In God We Trust". Is this statement true in your life today? If it is not, change your life creed to reflect this today! This statement means that you are entrusting God with everything, including following through with the calling that He has given you. Don't chase after your own desires if you truly believe that God can do amazing work for His Glory in your life through the fruit of your calling and practical application of that...
1 Corinthians 1:1-3: "High Calling from a Holy Creator"
Embrace the divine calling set forth in 1 Corinthians 1:1-3, where God's will has chosen us (1). Just as God ordained Paul to fulfill His purpose, we too are sanctified in the embrace of Jesus Christ (verse 2). Regardless of our scattered locations across the globe, Christians share an unbreakable bond through the precious blood of Christ, all being sanctified for His magnificent glory. Paul's words inspire us in our lofty calling, serving as a reminder that God bestows upon us the grace and peace essential for wholeheartedly serving and glorifying Him. Let this truth empower you, that you may serve Him more readily in His divine plan!
