I liked reading thru the beatitudes. They remind me of how we should be acting towards each other. What's written here, it completely foreign to how the world thinks now-adays.
13 “You are the salt of the earth.
14 “You are the light of the world.
BOOM!
We have a responsibility in this world. He has given us this charge. If we don't fulfill it, we are no good....just like the salt that has lost it's saltiness.
I've always had a hard time with the concept talked about in the second half of the chapter.
28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
The idea that if you think it, you've already committed it in your heart. Whether it be adultery, or coveting, or whatever......I guess this has always tripped me up....cause then I think....."well, how the heck can I win?" If I think it, and DON'T do it, shouldn't I be rewarded for making the right decision?
Answer clearly spelled out here! NO! If you think it, you are broken and sinful in nature and therefore need God's grace and Jesus' sacrifice.
THANK YOU JESUS!
16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
ReplyDeleteI feel convicted when I read let your light shine. I don't know that I do much to actively give God the glory. I love the Beattidues, simple statements that make so much sense and are easy to aim for (not to execute on). I might even go so far as to say there are many that I do a decent job at, others not so much. But would anyone know when I do exhibit a good quality that its because I'm trying to follow what Jesus has taught?--probably not, I don't often verbalize my faith outside of circle of friends who share my faith. I'm not sure that is letting him shine through me.
Reading your notes I have the same thoughts and struggles. And for the specific one you listed I would say I would never come close to committing adultery, but not true by the definition because even a split second thought that comes into your mind is crossing that line. The best answer is to avoid situations that cause those thoughts which is nearly impossible. Same goes for loving my enemies, how often do I truly avoid having negative thoughts about some people I struggle with at work? or worse yet do I keep my mouth shut when I have something negative to say...not always.
yes thank you Jesus for saving me from my sins my imperfections.
knut