Wednesday's Word - The Show Must Go On

In sincere acknowledgement of the truth - The Bible says of itself in Isaiah 55:11 that God's Word does exactly what God intends, accomplishing His pleasure. Also, in Jeremiah 23:28, he who has the Word should speak it faithfully.

Now there is also obvious credibility in the famous quote accredited to St Francis of Assisi - "Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words"

It's clear that a definite part of what it means to be a follower of Christ is to unashamedly share the True and Living Word of God straight from the Bible. And hand -in-hand with that is the life we show. We show that a life of faith lies in seeking the will of The Father far above any temporal or selfish gain. We show that we can't be bought by prestige or material gain because we've already been purchased by the precious blood of Christ. We show growth and maturity in the way we handle life's adversity - choosing rather to pray than be pitied, to show compassion rather than complain. We show that we invest inwardly to the growth of our inner man instead of running after the worlds next "feel good" fix. We show that real strength doesn't mean we're unaffected, but how we respond to and endure affliction. We show that we who once walked in darkness have been rescued - not by walking perfectly, but by humbly appropriating the promises presented by His great Forgiveness. And most importantly, we show love- that effort and action to nourish and express benevolent value to others: not only to those that somehow afford or deserve it, but moreso to those simply in need. It was freely given to us - so we freely give. Genuinely and sincerely.

Here's The Word:

Exodus 18:20 Teach them his decrees and instructions, and show them the way they are to live and how they are to behave.

Leviticus 19:32 Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the LORD.

Romans 2:15 They show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts sometimes accusing them and at other times even defending them.

2 Corinthians 4:7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.

James 2:18 But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds." Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.

James 3:13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.

Titus 2:7b-8 In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.

Ladies and Gentlemen, preaching the Word of God directly from the Bible is supremely important, but don't forget - The SHOW must go on.
　
In Him,
Cros