In a society that depends upon rules and laws, how are we doing when it comes to obeying the ‘laws of the land?’ Most will say that’s not an issue, we obey and do what is expected. But consider our driving habits. We have a posted speed limit, but do we follow it or just consider it a recommendation? Some laws are steadfast and we obey without a second thought. But how often do we tend to add an opinion, take some liberties or simply turn away from the law?
Some may ignore the posted law and risk the consequences. But when it comes to God’s word, His laws, are we guilty of adding our opinions, taking liberties or turning away? When we depart from what God expects of us, we will suffer the penalty. The consequences of adding to God’s word, ignoring His laws or turning away from Him will mean more than just paying a fine. Every day we should ask ourselves, am I guilty of violating God’s laws?
“…I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also.” I Corinthians 14:15
Sunday morning, July 27, 2014
The following songs are found in the hymnal, Songs of Faith & Praise.
“Surround Us, Lord” – no book
Though the city of Jerusalem is not encircled by a ring of peaks, the ancient writers considered this whole region to be ‘mountainous.’ And it would not be surprising to say, Jerusalem is in the midst of the mountains. So the Psalmist (Psalm 125:2) makes a point to say this great city is ‘surrounded’ by mountains, just like God’s people are surrounded by His presence.
“Tell Me the Story of Jesus” – 387
In three short verses this spiritual song covers Christ birth, ministry, death and resurrection. But perhaps the most telling portion of this song comes from the last part of the third verse, “Love in that story so tender, clearer than ever I see; stay, let me weep while you whisper, ‘Love paid the ransom for me.’…” Notice I’m speaking to the one who is telling me the story of Jesus. Saying to them; ‘don’t leave, stay here with me, and softly tell me how you were saved (ransomed) by the love of Jesus.’ The question for you and I…do we weep when we consider the story of Jesus?
“O Thou Fount of Every Blessing” – 226
Almost a direct quote from I Samuel, chapter 7 verse 12 (KJV), “Then Samuel took a stone, and set it between Mizpah and Shen, and called the name of it Ebenezer, saying, ‘Hitherto, hath the Lord helped us.’ “ We sing, ‘Here I raise my Ebenezer (my stone of help), hither by Thy help I’ve come…‘ And verse three reminds us that we are all prone to wander (turn away) from God. Would that chains (fetters) bind our heart to Him, but it comes down to this simple fact; we have the choice of obeying or not. Speeding or driving the speed limit; adding to, taking away, or turning…
“I’ll Never Forsake My Lord” – 688
Not an overly familiar song, but one that exemplifies our lesson today. What causes us to stumble on life’s highway; temptations, distractions, sin, sickness, weakness, overall difficulties in life? Most would say ‘yes’ to all of the above; but this song gives us encouragement that regardless of the onslaught of the world, I’ll never add to, take away or turn to the right or to the left. I’ll never forsake my Lord…
“A Charge to Keep I Have” – 58
We all have a responsibility in this life. Whether we want to admit it or not, from the day we are born we were given a charge and, according to this spiritual song, the responsibility Christians have is two-fold; to glorify God and bring the lost to Jesus. But I wonder if we really believe the third verse…“Help me to watch and pray, and on THYSELF (not myself) rely. Assured if I MY (not Thy) trust (charge/responsibility) betray, I shall forever die.” There is a consequence if we add to, take away or turn from our responsibility.
“I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” – 674
Perhaps not many song leaders would choose this song before the lesson, but I like the message sung at the close of each verse; “no turning back, no turning back.”
“In Heavenly Love Abiding” – 139
Again, perhaps not your most popular invitation song, but the message matches so well with the lesson. Consistency is God’s calling card, “…for nothing changes here.” We find support in staying true to God’s word as we sing the second verse; “Wherever He may guide me, no want shall turn me back; my Shepherd is beside me and nothing can I lack. His wisdom ever waketh (is made known to me), His sight is never dim; He knows the way He taketh, and I will walk with Him.” Will you?
“The Glory Land Way” – 535
Almost 100 years ago James Torbett wrote about heaven to encourage the singer to continue his walk ‘in the glory-land way.’ For those who have added to, taken away or turned aside from God’s Word, he encourages them, the wanderers, to ‘come home’ and ‘hasten to obey.’ Living a life that follows God’s commands WITHOUT EXCEPTION will be a life that is preparing for eternity with God. Never forsake His word, keep the charge you’ve been given and you’ll notice “…heaven is nearer and the way growth clearer…”