Introductory Thoughts
Rebels are sometimes known as loners. Today’s scripture says that this trait can be attributed to their desire to keep their distance from righteousness. Many who would be identified by these terms do not disassociate from sin or sinners. Instead, they disassociate from truth and righteousness. Righteous thoughts and words have been known to melt the hard heart. They penetrate the rocky soil and begin to break down pride and rebellion. In order for a rebel to remain in his rebellion, he must keep a distance between himself and the truth. The very concepts of righteousness and rebellion refuse to coexist. Hence the battle rages: as the Lord works to draw man’s attention to righteousness, the Devil fights to keep man’s distance from it.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): The children of Israel kept refusing to hear the truth (Jeremiah 7:23-29). Many people today are refusing to do the same (2 Timothy 4:2-4).
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(For everyone): Why does the Devil work hard to keep you blind to the true condition of your heart? What can begin to happen when you get a glimpse of the wickedness of your heart?
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How does righteousness and truth change your heart? What happens as you begin to distance yourself from these things? What happens to your heart (see Isaiah 46:12)?
Prayer Thoughts
- Thank the Lord for bringing these things to your attention.
- Ask the Lord to show you the condition of your heart.
Song
NEAR TO THE HEART OF GOD
