11/08/2014 - EXAMINE AND CONSIDER

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But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Philippians 3.7

If the brethren that have walked away from God would examine the attitude they have taken, they would repent and seek the Lord’s forgiveness. If the person that causes a fatal accident – or a permanent wound – would have considered his imprudence, he would have had control over his acts. There is nothing better than being responsible and not letting anything take control over you, even if it might cost you a great profit.

Examining everything and only retaining or practicing what is good proves that we love the Lord. What the Word condemns, even if it might seem best for us, must be abandoned immediately, for it will cause us an irreversible and eternal harm. Many times, it may be the applause from the society, or being considered a hero. He who does not deny himself and follow after the Lord Jesus is not worthy of Him (Mt 10.38).

We must never question why He forbids anything. Our Creator knows well about all of our situations, and for our good, He has oriented that we should not do certain things. If Eve had not heard the serpent and had not reached for the prohibited tree and eaten of its fruit, the devil would not have entered in our world and driven away the divine presence.

How many people have lost themselves, and how many others will lose themselves eternally! The simple bite that Adam gave on what was not allowed for him to eat is responsible for all the suffering that humanity has gone and will go through. The same happens to us. A bad example from the parents may cause all the descendants to surrender to sin, making them responsible for the eternal loss of their offspring.

It is necessary to examine, verify well the options that you have assumed in all of your life, in order to discard what has not been according to the Holy Book. The spiritual garbage is worst than the natural. Now, if we let our house be filled with crumbs and leftovers of what we eat, we will shortly be living with all kings of plagues. Those who do not throw away what is worthless will live in such a way.

What matters now is to obey our God. After all, we are the temple of His indwelling. However, we may be empty of Him if we do not obey Him. May you make now a complete evaluation in your heart, and as you find what the Scriptures condemn, do not think twice to get rid of it. The Most High will help you to examine everything so that you may stay only with what is approved by Him.

Every day, we must examine ourselves and leave everything that blocks our walk of faith. Be sensitive to the voice of the Holy Spirit, for He will show you everything that must be abandoned, for His mission is to guide you in all things. He who believes in what the Lord says sees His glory. Get rid of everything that causes you any harm.

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares