A Show of Thankfulness

Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord. Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts. They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in his paths. You have charged us to keep your commandments carefully. Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees! Then I will not be ashamed when I compare my life with your commands. As I learn your righteous regulations, I will thank you by living as I should! Psalm 119:1-7

I am very excited about our ministry theme for next year. We are preparing an exciting study of the Law of God, focusing on the Ten Commandments. I can hardly wait, and it's proving to be a little bit of a struggle to stay on track to finish out this year because I am so ready to get started with the new theme.

But in the midst of all my excitement, there is a bit of trepidation. What if churches aren't ready for it? The modern church has become so grace-focused, often to the total exclusion of the Law, that I wonder if taking this approach may be like ministry-suicide...?

The thing is... I don't care! I am so tired of watered-down theology, so concerned that many professing Christians really have very little understanding of salvation, that it's totally worth any risk to be sure that the truth is presented.

God gave us His Law for a reason. And no matter how many well-meaning "Christians" try to tell me, "We're not under Law- we're under grace," I will not be convinced that the Law is archaic or inapplicable to 21st century humanity.

I understand the problem. I, like many of you, have witnessed the legalistic approach often applied by those churches, schools, and organizations who have held onto the Law to the exclusion of grace. But I believe the modern church has gone too far in the other direction, preaching grace to the exclusion of the Law. I happen to believe that there is a great need for balance.

As Christians, we are called to live differently (ALIENZ). We are called to be like Christ (REPLICATORS). We are called! This is the key. We are not saved because of our works - the works follow genuine salvation. As the psalmist writes, "I will thank you by living as I should." When we truly understand what Christ has done for us on the cross, our hearts cry out in gratitude, and that gratitude will be reflected in the way in which we live our lives.

My prayer is that we can bring the teaching of the law back into the church - not as as an instrument of judgement and legalism - but for its intended purpose: as a standard for living, which points us clearly to our great need of a Savior.

As Paul says in Romans 7:7, "I would not have known what sin was except through the law."

So as I understand my need, I cry out for a Savior, who extends to me grace. He frees me from the consequences of breaking the law, while calling me to a higher standard of living than the law ever did.

Are you truly thankful today? The evidence will be found in the way we live our lives.

...Just a thought...