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Point of Reference
by Fred Price
Our lives are filled with new opportunities; new schools, new jobs, new relationships. Can we embrace all these areas of unfamiliarity with confidence and assurance of success? Not automatically, but it can be had. Remember your loved ones’ instruction, your church’s concern and direction, your education and effort. Then look directly to God for further guidance. He has declared to believers throughout the ages that we are, “...not to be afraid or terrified..., for the Lord your God goes with you.”; and promises that, “....He will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6, Hebrews 13:5) Something is required in return though, “...in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:6 (KJ) God promising to direct our paths (Or make them straight, and thus more easily traveled. NIV), with a safe journey IF we, in ALL things, acknowledge His authority and right to direct, as well as His desire to bless.
Webster’s Dictionary defines acknowledgement as admitting something to be true. The book of Matthew interestingly recording Jesus as declaring, “Whoever acknowledges (or confesses) me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven.” Matthew 10:32 Reinforcing the idea that we must be able and ready to acknowledge that God is who He says He is, that we are sinners in need of Him, that Jesus is, “...the image of the invisible God.” (Colossians 1:15) and through Him we have life to the fullest extent. (John 10:10)
Webster also defines knowledge as recognizing claims to authority. In this instance the authority of God, Jesus as His Son and representative, as well as his sacrifice and subsequent right to expectation of response. “You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God…” 1 Corinthians 6:19.20 A concept Paul enthusiastically urged in his letter to the Roman Christians. “I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God – (which) is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will able to test and approve what God’s will is...” Romans 12:1,2
In further defining acknowledgment, the ability to express thanks in recognition of receiving a gift is noted as well. Does that ensure we will receive everything we want, as soon as we want it? No. But God does promise direction in our lives as we seek to accomplish our goals and fulfill his will. Not a forcing of His will on ours – maybe a prodding or nudge; but never forcing us to obedience. The choice is still ours to make. But if we acknowledge Him and His righteousness, His claim to our lives and the gift by which He established that claim – then why wouldn’t we be willing to accept and follow His direction; which is defined as turning or pointing a person toward an object, place, or goal? In Christ, we will be directed to a “good life,” a Christian attitude and world view, and ultimately heaven. For “...we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” Romans 8:28
God further promises that if we, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do… your plans will succeed.” Proverbs 16:3 That’s a pretty straight-forward declarative statement. Commit whatever, or better yet, everything you do, and you WILL experience success! Let’s define some things again for clarity. Webster’s Dictionary defining commitment this way: to set apart for a purpose. The Apostle Peter confirming that concept when he writes, “...you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.” 1 Peter 2:9
Another possible definition of commitment is to bind as a promise or pledge to a course of action or purpose. To make known one’s opinion. As we are blessed by God’s directing of our lives and find strength and ability through His word to live successfully as followers of His way; we must boldly and eagerly seek ways to proclaim our faith in Christ. For, “If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when He comes in His glory...” Luke 9:26 (See also Matthew 10:33)
Do we need to define success? It’s certainly not, ‘All I want, whenever I want it.’ Our Dictionary again defining it as accomplishing something planned and/or tried. God never promises us all we want, but does furnish us with all we really need, as we use it to glorify Him and in thanksgiving use it to benefit those around us as well as ourselves. As in, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 The confidence to attempt new tasks found in the assurance that, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.” Hebrews 13:6
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Fred Price - married (50 years), father of two grown children, grandfather of six.
Fred retired earlier this year after 42 years as a factory worker. He has always had a heart for young people and the challenges they face today. Over the years Fred has taught Discipleship Groups for High School and college students.
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