Remind us, Lord, to remember
September 14, 2009 (Monday)
People have been known to tie a string around a finger to help them remember something. Maybe they were trying to remember an errand, an obligation, or just a thought. I’m not tying a string around my finger, but I need to remember a few things today.
It may sound strange to you, but I need to remember today that I am not God. That is, I need to remember that I need to stop trying to do things that God is already doing quite well. Perhaps my top priority ought to be, “Stop judging others.” As a matter of fact, I am commanded by Jesus in this matter. He said, “Judge not, lest you be judged, for you shall be judged in the same way you judge others.” I am not a good judge, because I don’t know all the facts, I am not all-wise, I cannot be totally objective, and, according to Scripture, I am a sinner myself.
I need to remember also that I have an influence upon others, and I want to be sure my influence counts for Christ. Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. Shine, therefore, that others may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” The kingdom of God is not a legal system, but instead is a matter of inner righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17b). My surpreme motive should be to please God.
One other item on my list of things to remember today is that I should want to live in a way that follows the wonderful example of Jesus, who left Heaven and all its glory to come to earth and die on a cruel cross so that we might be saved (Philippians 2:5-11). The New Testament teaches me to surrender to the Lordship of Christ in my heart and life so that He lives in me, and guides my actions. It is his power that makes the Christian life possible.
Tie a string around your finger if you must, but remember these things today, please. They apply to me. Do they apply to you?