November 12, 2007
READ: 1 Peter 2:9-17
The Lord takes pleasure in His people; He will beautify the humble with salvation. Psalm 149:4
For some folks, the word holiness conjures up images of stuffy prudespeople who are good in the worst sense of the word, with sullen and morose faces. They are full of self-righteousness and rigid duty, on hold for the next life, as a Washington Post writer put it.
Most people long for truth and goodness. Yet that desire can be frustrated by what they see in some Christians, whom they perceive as self-righteous and judgmental. To unbelievers, such virtue is far less interesting than vice, with the result that they cling to their vices even though they may hate them. Joy Davidman, the wife of C. S. Lewis, said, One sanctimonious hypocrite makes a hundred unbelievers.
Would that the world saw the real thingthat extraordinary quality of life of which Peter speaksa life so winsome and attractive it will draw others to the Savior (1 Peter 2:12). If only 10% of the worlds population had [holiness], C. S. Lewis mused, would not the whole world be converted and happy before years end?
We can have it! As we yield our lives to Gods Spirit within, we can live lives of uncommon beauty before a watching world. Israels poet assures us, The Lord . . . will beautify the humble (Ps. 149:4).
Amen, and our Lord Work within His Church that which is Well-Pleasing in His Sight.
Thank you for these Wonderful Devotionals, Mr. Mayor, and for All you Do in your Endeavors to Bring Righteousness to Government.