CANNOT GO HOME

CANNOT GO HOME

Tuesday, August 21, 2018

  The person was bemoaning life, saying “If only we could go back to Eden!”

  Two reasons we cannot.

1.       Even if it was agreed upon where it is, because of Adam’s lack of obedience we cannot.

2.       What with our many times greater than Adam’s knowledge of good and evil, hah!

  As followers of Christ we do however have His peace available for the taking.

   Psalm 34:14 Turn away from evil, and do good. Seek peace, and pursue it!

   Psalm 119:165 There is lasting peace for those who love your teachings. Nothing can make those people stumble.

   Proverbs 3:1-5 My son, do not forget my teachings, and keep my commands in mind, because they will bring you long life, good years, and peace. Do not let mercy and truth leave you. Fasten them around your neck. Write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will find favor and much success in the sight of God and humanity. Trust the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding.

   Proverbs 3:17-18 Wisdom's ways are pleasant ways, and all its paths lead to peace. Wisdom is a tree of life for those who take firm hold of it. Those who cling to it are blessed.

   Isaiah 26:3  With perfect peace you will protect those whose minds cannot be changed, because they trust you.

   John 14:27  "I'm leaving you peace. I'm giving you my peace. I don't give you the kind of peace that the world gives. So don't be troubled or cowardly.

   Philippians 4:4-9  Always be joyful in the Lord! I'll say it again: Be joyful! Let everyone know how considerate you are. The Lord is near. Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks. Then God's peace, which goes beyond anything we can imagine, will guard your thoughts and emotions through Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, keep your thoughts on whatever is right or deserves praise: things that are true, honorable, fair, pure, acceptable, or commendable. Practice what you've learned and received from me, what you heard and saw me do. Then the God who gives this peace will be with you.

   Colossians 3:12 -17 As holy people whom God has chosen and loved, be sympathetic, kind, humble, gentle, and patient. Put up with each other, and forgive each other if anyone has a complaint. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Above all, be loving.This ties everything together perfectly. Also, let Christ's peace control you. God has called you into this peace by bringing you into one body. Be thankful. Let Christ's word with all its wisdom and richness live in you. Use psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to teach and instruct yourselves about God's kindness. Sing to God in your hearts. Everything you say or do should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

  Returning to Eden is impossible. Living in personal peace in this chaotic world is not. It is however conditional, depending on our accepting in compliance or rejecting His peace in favor of this world’s peace (Jn.14:27). No different than in Eden, it is our choice.

EBB4