Pathways Press.com

MEDITATION:

Written by A. W. Tozer (1897-1963), an American Christian pastor, author, magazine editor, and spiritual mentor. This is an excerpt from his book “The Root of the Righteous.”

The idea that God will pardon a rebel who has not given up his rebellion is contrary both to the Scriptures and to common sense. How horrible to contemplate a church full of persons who have been pardoned but who still love sin and hate the ways of righteousness. And how much more horrible to think of heaven as filled with sinners who had not repented nor changed their ways of living. A familiar story will illustrate this. The governor of one of our states was visiting the state prison incognito. He fell into conversation with a personable young convict and felt a secret wish to pardon him. “What would you do, “ he asked casually, “if you were lucky enough to obtain a pardon?” The convict, not knowing to whom he was speaking, snarled his reply: “If I ever get out of this place, the first thing I’ll do is cut the throat of the judge who sent me here.” The governor broke off the conversation and withdrew from the cell. The convict stayed on in prison. To pardon a man who had not reformed would be to let loose another killer upon society. That kind of pardon would not only be foolish, it would be downright immoral.

PRAYER:

Written by Cheryce Rampersad, a contemporary Christian author

Jesus, Lamb of God, worthy is your precious name. I lift you up and bless your Holy name. Father, you mean everything to me. I love walking in obedience to Your Word. Without you, I can’t do anything. You are my King, the ruler of everything and none can compare to you. You are my heart’s desire. Oh Lord, I give you my mind, body, and soul. I want to be so lost in your presence, that I can’t even begin to comprehend what’s happening. Lord, I hunger and thirst for you. Be my guide, Oh Lord, and help me to be obedient to your Word. Help those who are disobedient to find you, Oh Lord and forgive them, for they know not what they do. Give me wisdom where I lack knowledge, so I can understand how to trust and obey. Lord, you made it clear that if I walk in obedience, I will live a full life with you. Being obedient will cause an overflow of abundant blessings within my life. Help me to not be as King Saul, for he lost everything through disobedience. Help me to be like Jesus. I declare that obedience will fill my mind, heart, and actions on this beautiful day and abundant blessings will rain down upon me. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen! Remind me, Oh Heavenly Father, that disobedience is a form of rebellion towards you and, as you have clearly stated, if I reject You and Your Word, you will reject me from your heavenly kingdom.