Sound Truth Radio

There are many things in this world that cause people to stand in awe of God. Frequently, you'll hear about the magnificence of the creation. It can also be quite impressive to marvel at the abilities of people created in God's image. Today, Pastor Malcolm speaks of a topic that's not usually equated with the idea of awe, and that's the forgiveness of God. But when you think about it, of all the things God has done, is there anything more marvelous, more wonderful than God's amazing grace?

When you look through history, even your own personal history, you frequently see plans that seemed like a great idea, but turned out to be failures. Today, Pastor Malcolm applies the wisdom of the psalms to Christian works today. It's important that any effort you envision for God is built on His foundation. Is your plan in harmony with God's word? Have you sought out advice from spiritually wise counselors? Have you bathed it in prayer? And most importantly, does it honor God and glorify Christ?

Think of situations where some person is watching very, very carefully what someone else is doing. An air traffic controller would be a good example, watching each aircraft intently, or a runner leading off first base, eyes glued to the pitcher, to see if he's going to attempt to pick him off. Today, Pastor Malcolm emphasizes how important it is to be fully and exclusively attentive to the Lord. What is He telling you today? Where does He want you to go? Is there anything He's warning you to watch out for?

Do you find God's word to be sweeter than honey? Do you find sin and wickedness to be repulsive? As Pastor Malcolm will challenge us in today's message, when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, He begins a work of transformation in us that is undeniable, following His way will lead us directly against the flow of culture. It isn't an easy path to follow. Even some of your closest friends and loved ones may provide resistance.

We are called to take the gospel to the ends of the earth. That will include some people who may not hold to the same values as us. Well, this is an important part of living out our faith as Pastor Malcolm will point out in today's message. Scripture also encourages us to surround ourselves with those who fear God, and walk according to His ways. We need these brothers and sisters in Christ to push us closer to Him and help us carry on when the world is pushing in and threatening our witness.

Far too often, we approach God's laws and statutes with the mindset of, how far can I go without crossing the line? Kind of like how many of us drive as long as you keep it within 5 miles per hour on city streets and 9 over on the highway? You probably won't get pulled over. As Pastor Malcolm will challenge us in today's passage. Instead of pushing the limits, we need to start delighting in obeying God's commands because we want to honor and glorify the One who saves our souls from sin.

Have you ever heard that it's better not to meet your heroes? We often put people up on a pedestal that they don't belong on. No human is perfect, and even the best will let you down if you give them the chance. As Pastor Malcolm will point out in today's message, while we can respect and honor those who have a major impact for the gospel, we need to make sure we don't hold them up as an idol. The only Being worthy of our praise is God. And it's only through His Son that we can do anything good.

Can you think of anyone in your life who radiates that kind of joy? Sometimes it's contagious, but sometimes in our own sourness, we might think it annoying. As Pastor Malcolm will exhort us in today's message. We have been given an incredible depth of grace, love, and hope in Jesus. And we can find joy and rest when we focus on Him. Don't let your desire to serve your own comforts or convenience make you bitter toward anyone or anything that seems like it's standing in your way.

Do you live with that kind of patience, kindness, and grace? We can't expect to meet the same standard that Jesus did. But far too often, we look like the complete opposite, as we deal with people that we consider troublesome. As Pastor Malcolm continues our study of the book of Psalms today, we'll be challenged to imitate the compassion that our Savior demonstrated in His earthly ministry. He didn't prioritize His own comfort or pleasure, but His mission to reach the lost.