When we think of Absalom, David’s son, we often think of him as a man consumed with pride. While pride was certainly at the root of his behaviour, as it is for most of us, it would be wise to consider that Absalom might have been addicted to something else plaguing many men, women, boys, and girls in society today—attention-seeking. As is the custom of the day, a fancy title has been assigned to this behaviour by those who study mental health—Histrionic Personality Disorder.
The most controversial and debated topics of a generation expose its firmest held beliefs. The subject of abortion is a case in point. For one side, religion proves the murderous and godless nature of abortion. For others, abortion rights are pursued and defended with great religious fervor. The sad truth is that the religious nature of abortion is not new. In fact, the scripture says, “The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the son” (Ecclesiastes 1:9). To understand this ancient controversy, consider its origins and opposition.
Many simply define nakedness as the absence of clothing. Yet, the Bible defines it as the absence of sufficient/appropriate clothing. This truth is borne out in the word’s historical use in the English language—nude, bare, empty, but also not fully clothed. Anything less than sufficient clothing was considered nakedness.
Many who accept or reject the sovereignty of God do so based upon a faulty understanding of the word and of the doctrine. The common assumption is that God’s sovereignty means He is irresistible and without limitations in the scope of His power or practice in the affairs of men. But, is this what sovereignty means?
Have you been hurt? Stop the cycle! Do you crave attention that comes with being a “victim”? Find it through a personal walk with the Lord. Are you currently allowing your hurt to hurt others? Stop! Are you bitter from things in your past and transferring your vengeance upon someone who you deem has done you unjustly? Forgive those who hurt you in the past and stop letting them continue to hold power over your life. Be sure, the judgment seat of Christ will make all wrongs right for the believer.
The loss of a child is devastating! It goes against all of our expectations as parents. A child should be allowed the opportunities of life that we have enjoyed. Parents should never outlive their child! Yet, even in this time of tragic loss, the grace of God is evident and offers comfort to those willing to receive it.
The teaching set forth in Matthew chapters 24 and 25 is commonly identified as the Olivet Discourse and contains a detailed explanation of the end-times.
As saints of God we should have some things in common with a pilgrim. How are you like a pilgrim?
