PROOF

PROOF

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Titus [MKJV] 2:11-15 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, 12 teaching us that having denied ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live discreetly, righteously and godly, in this present world, 13 looking for the blessed hope, and the appearance of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all iniquity and purify to Himself a special people, zealous of good works. 15 Speak these things, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no one despise you.

   Jesus said “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”

  In writing the brief series on conscience one passage presented was Paul’s lament with praise recorded in Romans 7: Paul’s, our, my, sinful nature proving the Word is Truth.

  There is other proof having to do with life in and by Jesus. It involves resting in His redemption and continual intercession and thereby realizing authentic maturation. (Rom.8:34; Eph.1:7; Col.1:18-20; Heb.7:25)

  I was reminded of this while enjoying time with Michael and Lars.

  Lars was daughter Dawn and John’s German exchange student for 10 months some 10 years ago. Now a very grownup young man, he’s visiting his American family for one week.

  When we picked Michael up from school, though having never met prior, in 10 seconds they were acting like affectionate older and much younger brothers.

  To begin our fun evening we chased down the flamingoes that live in Lake Manawa forest. (A tale for another time.)

  It being Michael’s day to choose he of course opted for Pizza Ranch. Entering, Michael explained to Lars that the first thing we do is wash our hands. So off to “COWBOYS” we went.

  It’s one of those restrooms where Michael can’t reach the foamy soap dispenser . . . and he always has me do it for him. This time was different. He asked Lars to do it. Lars did so by getting big handful and as they giggled he gave it to Michael.

  I too laughed, but also remember there was a time when I would have silently reacted in possessive jealousy.

  It’s not just sinfulness that is proof of His *efficacious Truth in living.  Maturation through resting in the Word, the grace of Lord Jesus Christ, the love of Sovereign God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit is also undeniable substantiation.  EBB4

*Capable of producing powerful change.