Jude 8-16
Yesterday Jude's message was believe in and follow the Lord. That's still the underlying message as we move on to verses 8-16, but now Jude lays out examples for us of the disastrous results of doing our own thing and following our own desires. He is quite thorough in pointing out the problem of running our own show: "relying on their dreams" (vs. 8); "they are destroyed by all that they, like unreasoning animals, instinctively understood" (vs. 10); "shepherds feeding themselves" (vs. 12); "following their own sinful desires" (vs. 16).
Now Jude is writing about people who aren't believers here, but even after accepting Christ, the temptation is there to do our own thing. So what do you do to combat this powerful temptation? What did these verses show you about our human nature, temptation, living a surrendered life? Tami W.
I have a friend who admonishes individuals to let God "RUN" their lives - to totally surrender to his will, because if you allow the "I" (meaning individual, you) to get in the way, you will “RUIN" your life.
When he says it he gets a lot of laughs but it is so true. The verses in Jude really remind us that we are very fallible and extremely fragile as it relates to sin. Its at the door.
I also find it interesting that in many instances in scripture a reference to a cloud speaks to God's guidance and provision. Here in Jude, it says if you are not walking in God's path you are an empty cloud.
I guess the key thing here is to do the things, engage in the disciplines, commit your will to remain at the feet of Jesus and nowhere else. That's how you can deal with the temptation.
So many times we work on our actions, where-abouts, instead of our surrender and faith. This is why we are weak as christians, judgmental twards other christians, and are easily influanced by pride, greed, and guilt. If we go to our closets, pray for the ability to surrender, allow God to influance us, our actions, through our newly increaced faith, will take on a whole new look. Remember, it's not what you do in front of others that defines you as a christian, but how much God has control of.
I can see myself in my situation right now, where I have at times tried to work things out in my own strength. I am not happy about that, at the same time I am reminded, through scripture and reminders of what God has done for me in the past and I can rely on Him and I should.
Have a wonderful day.
as christians when we just come to christ, there are a lot of baggage wationse take with us, so what we have to do in shaking off these baggages is to pray constantly, seek help from other christians who are alrady in the faith, speak also to our pastors, and most definetly read our bible.we can also get involved in group activities at church.as the great book told us that when we overcome temptations we get a crown in glory.although this isnt an easy process but the bible tell us i can do all things through christ who strengtheneth me.(philip. 4 v 13)
"pray without ceasing" is what came to mind. 1Thessalonians 5:12-18 and Psalm 1:1-2
God is with us 24/7. He is available 24/7 to guide and direct our thoughts and actions if we allow His presence to shine forth out of our lives. If a good friend were with you, wouldn't you talk to him? Wouldn't you ask a good friend what to say or do at the moment? How much more can we rely on God to be our friend and confidant. A prayer doesn't have to take up an hour or even 30 seconds- it can be a quick thought before speaking. How can I honor you, God? I love the old book "Practicing the Presence of God" Easier said than done, but I'm better than I was before I started.
Thank you, John B, for your precise and candidly to-the-point reflection of the truth. The Spirit of God surely speaks through you. A timely reminder that I needed to hear right now.