In Sunday's sermon, Pastor Martha noted that there are occasions in Scripture when the earth itself responds to the sinfulness and wickedness of mankind. In the story of Noah, we see that the waters on earth crossed their boundaries. Floods rose from beneath the earth and crested above the mountain ranges (see Genesis 7:17-20). Why did this happen? Because the people on earth had offended God through their acts of wickedness: "... every inclination of the thoughts of their minds was only evil all the time." (Genesis 6:5b) Eventually, the day came where opportunity for repentance had ceased.
It's not popular to speak a message which implies that time is a factor in repentance. But the God we serve has said, "My Spirit will not strive with man forever." (Genesis 6:3a) Our own mortality stands as a witness to the reality of limited time. It makes it all the more astounding that people, who know they are not guaranteed long life, would opt to live their lives in disobedience to the Lord who has called us to be gracious, honest, and compassionate.
- Are we interested in pursuing holiness and promoting healing, or have we opted to fill ourselves with thoughts and acts that are evil?
- If someone were to take inventory of the motives behind our actions, what would they find?
Lord, we who love You long to be accurate reflections of Your goodness and grace. Please help us to become more like You.
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