Looking the Other Way

Children play games. Looking back to childhood I remember one game in particular where a person would point and say something ridiculous in order to try and get the other person to cast their eyes in a certain direction. For example, someone might say (pointing into the air), "Is that an ostrich?" When the other person looked up in the air (not thinking about what was being said, but just following the hand gesture), the other person would reply, "Ha, ha, made you look!" My own children still play this game more often then I would like to mention.

It occurs to me that people play this game every day in the religious realm as well. Some people lead others down a false path by their activity and motions. They point into the heavens, while telling a lie. Go into any city of size here in the "Bible belt," and you will find churches that have all the appearances of spritiuality, but their religion is false. Churches are popping up everywhere offering "exciting worship", coffee bars, children's play areas, and something for everyone. But do they teach the truth about salvation? Do they hold to the doctrine of the New Testament with regard to marriage, the church, or daily Christian living?

And what of those who play the game on the other end? When an honest and loving Christian tries to point them to the Scriptures, they refuse to look. That is the object of their game. They think by not looking they won't be tricked. I am amazed when people try to predict the time of Christ's return. They refuse to read what the Scriptures say (Matt. 24:36, 44). This is just one example. A person could spend all day examining doctrines that exist in our world simply because there are so many who refuse to accept what the Bible teaches on certain matters.

If we truly love God and His word, religion is not a game. We will not try to deceive people in order to fill pews. We will not reject the pure teaching of the Bible, in order to hold to our own views and sinful practices. Those who love the Lord love His word also. They will obey His commandments with joy and thankfulness for His guidance and care.

Behold He cometh with clouds...and when that day comes, rest assured, there will be no looking the other way.

"...looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith..." ~ Hebrews 12:2