STOPPING OUR EARS!

STOPPING OUR EARS!

Paul was in chains and awaiting transportation to Rome when he called the Jewish leaders together to explain the Scriptures regarding this rapidly growing sect with Jesus as its focus.

Acts 28:22-24

22 But we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning this sect, we know that every where it is spoken against.

23 And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening. 24 And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.

           After so long in ministry, I still find it amazing that truth, be it ever so clearly presented, can be rejected deliberately. Choice not ignorance is the cause of the gospel’s failure in some hearts.

Zech 7:11

11 But they refused to hearken, and pulled away the shoulder, and stopped their ears, that they should not hear.

           Amazing, isn’t it? They refused to listen – gave God the “cold shoulder” and stopped their ears. There was no lack of understanding on their part. It was a lack of response. What causes people to react in such a way?

1] To truly listen would reveal many errors in our heart and life. We become comfortable in our error.

2] To truly understand would call for change. We do not like change.

3] To truly hear condemns us, shames us, and breaks our heart because of our sin.

           To sing without heart – to pray without faith – to serve without compassion – to give without abandon is worse than doing nothing.

Dear Lord, remove from me the indifference caused by luxury and cultural carelessness. Make my heart your home and renew a right spirit within me. AMEN