Today’s Thought “Baby It’s Cold Outside” G. Ward

“And have mercy on some, who are doubting; save others, snatching them out of the fire; and on some have mercy with fear, hating even the garment polluted by the flesh.” Jude 1:22-23

Our Great God of provision is most certainly worthy of all honor in view of allowing our rescue from perishing. While we may rejoice in our surrender as a servant of the Most High, cognizance with others mocking must not drive more defense, but proaction. Criticism of what seemingly is relinquishing an intellectual posturing common to man, is ultimately a misunderstanding of our very existence. In other words, “God gave you a brain, now use it!” While it certainly sounds prudent, particularly in view of the success with so many including us; quiet moments may reveal a necessary contrast of success vs. failure; unmasking our evaluations of failure as painful. The Apostle Paul desired the world to know that his soul accepted a redemption for himself and others, but persistent practice in surrender is a must: “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me” (Phil.3:12). In his day the Roman Empire embraced a plethora of intellectualisms to which he also was superior (cf.Ac.22:2-3), but the newness of life (Jn.14:6, Ro.6:4) afforded him demanded he give to others that to which he received (Phil.3:7-8).

Happy Monday!