It's not worth it!

The Bible is a book about love . . . the love that the Heavenly Father has for all people. It tells of how God lovingly created mankind, and it reveals to us the lengths to which He has gone in order to restore us to a right relationship with Him. What a loving Father He truly is!

The Bible also reveals to us that God is Holy and Just. He is unable to just turn His head from the mocking nature of sin. You see, when we choose to sin - to act and think in opposition to the way He has directed - we are basically telling the Lord, "Even though you are God, I am determined to control my own destiny." That simply doesn't sit well with Him! The Scriptures are filled with the stories of people, even nations, who chose not to honor God through obedience to His Word. These are not pleasant stories to tell or refer to, but the truth, no matter how painful it may be, must be told.

The latter part of Proverbs 1 provides a warning to not reject the wisdom of God. In verse 22 Solomon tells his son, "fools hate wisdom." Indeed, from experience I know that it is foolish to turn one's back on God's wisdom and way. The sad thing is that some people never catch on that their foolish choices only lead to heartache and destruction. God tells us in verses 28-31 that there will come a time at which it is too late to change their ways:
"They they will call on me, but I will not answer;
They will seek me diligently, but they will not find me.
Because they hated knowledge
And did not choose the fear of the Lord,
They would have none of my counsel
And despised my every rebuke.
Therefore they shall eat the fruit of their own way,
And be filled to the full with their own fancies."

Anne Graham Lotz, the daughter of Billy and Ruth Graham, was interviewed on one of the national morning news programs. She was asked about why God allowed tragedies such as the events of 9/11. Her reply was simple, and yet, so profound. She told the reporter that America has time and again determined that God no longer has a place in the American public arena, and being the gentleman that He is, He stepped aside. Galatians 6:7-8 tells us clearly, "for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life." Some folks look at those Christians who seek to live daily for Christ and call them "fools" when in reality it is they who are being foolish.

God wants so much to bless us in ways we cannot begin to imagine. But, He doesn't hand out His blessings to just anyone. His blessings are poured out upon those who love Him and live in obedience. This has always been the case, and it continues to be true today. So let's love the Lord with all our being and gladly serve Him. It's the wise thing to do!