What really determines the way we think, the way we live, the choices we make? I say it is the foundation of what we believe–this makes up our worldview.
Christianity is the basis of my world view. But it is a belief system under vicious attack–even inside the church.
Only “attack” seems exaggerated because the most effective attacks are subtle ones, and thus the most deceptive.
I submit that for a Christian, one of the most fundamental points of our belief is how we view God’s sovereignty. I don’t know if many people really give much thought to just how seriously they believe in God’s supreme ruling over the universe.
While reading Daniel today, Daniel makes this PROFOUND statement to Belshazzar, the king and son of the former reigning Nebuchadnezzar, revealing the true sovereignty of God.
He said:
“…the Most High God gave Nebuchadnezzar your father a kingdom and majesty, glory and honor…all peoples, nations, and languages trembled and feared before him…but when his heart was lifted up in pride, his glory was taken from him…his heart was made like the beasts…till he knew that the Most High God rules in the kingdom of men, and appoints over it whomever He chooses.
But you have not humbled your heart…and the God who holds your breath in His hand and owns all your ways, you have not glorified.”
In light of the upcoming election, I have to say pondering this verse gives me peace.
We sure do wring our hands over a lot, don’t we? Newsflash: God doesn’t wring His hands.
And contrasting these characters in Daniel is Daniel himself…resolute….iron-willed. Willing to face torturous death rather than compromise his faith and convictions.
We need men and women of resolute character–the iron-willed kind that cares more about glorifying the Lord and obeying Him than anything.
You know when Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego wouldn’t bow to the idol among the thousands gathered there? How many of us would have bowed…”Just tyin‘ my shoe, Lord, just tyin‘ my shoe!”
3 comments
There are a whole lot of Christians just tyin’ their shoes, Kelly. Meanwhile families are disintegrating, marriages crumbling, and children are raising themselves (or worse yet, being raised by their peers).
But it’s okay, because we’re “blessed” with big homes, new cars, and the best life money can buy.
How long does it take to tie a shoe, anyway?
You’re right, Terry…the idols of our day are, like I said, more subtle, so it doesn’t seem like we are rejecting God as deliberately…a lot to ponder!
And then I have to be on guard against idols that would entice me…anything that exalts itself in my life before the Lord..ouch.
Very Good!