Wednesday, December 14, 2005

PAY ATTENTION!

PAY ATTENTION By Dr. James MacDonald
Now therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation. Hebrews 2:1-2
The Christian life is not a destination; it’s a journey. While it began at a point in time when you came to the cross, it most certainly doesn’t stop there. Are you moving ahead into all the great things that God has for you? One of the primary messages of the book of Hebrews is, “keep growing.” The author repeatedly warns believers in Christ Jesus to keep our relationship with God current. Don’t let your heart get hard, or cold, or calloused to the things of Christ but press on to what’s ahead. Hebrews 2:1 urges: “Now therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it.”
When you came to Christ you made some promises to God, right? How are you doing with them? Don’t drift away from the most important thing in your life. Here are some penetrating questions to keep your relationship with God moving ahead:
Does my life give evidence of a person truly redeemed by the Son of God?
Does my faith endure in hard times as well asgood times?
Does my life reflect a growing pattern of righteousness?
Do I have an increasing hunger for God’s Word and a passion for God’s kingdom?
Is my love increasing for God and His people?
You say, “I don’t want to drift away. What can I do?” Perfect question! Your answer is in verse 1: “Therefore we must pay close attention.” What a great wake-up call! “Pay attention—this matters!” If you think you might be drifting away a little bit—come back! If you’ve been caught up in other things and lost sight of your primary purpose—come back to the Lord. In the most loving way I know how, I urge you to stay on course. If it’s been several days . . . or weeks since you knelt in humility before the Lord with your life open before him, get on your knees right now. Review the five questions above. Ask the Lord to show you the areas of your heart that need a fresh touch from him and a recommitment from you.

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