By Leslie Diestelkamp
Instead of arguing my case and then stating a conclusion, I shall first of all state my premise and then make the arguments. The New Testament clearly teaches salvation by faith, but we must recognize that faith does not save because of what it is but because of what it does in the heart of the believer.
Even a superficial examination of the statement “Do as I say, not as I do,” immediately produces the stink of hypocrisy. I suppose it is said with the wishful thinking that others (mostly children under our influence) won’t copy what we know to be our inconsistent and bad behavior – that somehow saying what is right will impress them more than the wrong actions they see in us.
"I'm okay" has become a standard response whether or not one really is okay. "Okay" has come to mean everything and nothing at the same time.
You’re reading through your Bible and you come to the Book of Revelation. When you read it, you may have more questions about the book than when you started reading! Don’t be discouraged. I think most Bible students admit that the Book of Revelation is a constant challenge and as such requires care and perseverance to understand. I certainly am no “expert” on this topic, but I have found some “hints” that can make study of the book easier and more profitable.
The Question We Need to STOP Asking
There are many questions I think we should eliminate from our Bible studies, but at the top of my list is the question: “What does this verse mean to you?” Many times, a verse will be read in a Bible study and the teacher will ask the class, “What does this verse mean to you?” It could be that some teachers are simply asking, “What do you think this verse means?” In that case, it should probably be phrased like that.
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How Will You Be Remembered?
As somber as it sounds I think it is important from time to time to consider the question, "how will you be remembered?" This question reminds us that there are only a limited amount of days we have on earth and it encourages us to use them in a way that is worthwhile and in a way that pleases our Creator. This question also reminds us that our actions and choices in many ways chart the course for the example that we leave behind. I ask you, what kind of example are you setting? How will others remember you when you're earthly life has faded?
