Contingent Promises from the Consistent Promise Keeper

Yesterday, I was the substitute teacher in the ladies' class. We were winding up the lesson on John 2 when someone made a comment that sent me down a rabbit trail. It's been on my mind ever since.

The comment was about our tendency toward criticism, which reminded me of Isaiah 58. The prophet's words make one thing clear. God hates a judgmental, critical spirit. He wants us to be rid of it so much that He's made promises for those who let it go.

IF we replace our critical, judgmental spirit with a spirit of generosity and giving...

THEN God will give: 

- clear direction

- hope even in difficult situations

- refreshment

- strength

- restoration of what seems utterly hopeless (repairer of breach, restorer of streets)

IF we honor the Sabbath and treat it as a delightful, holy day...

THEN God will give:  

- delight in Him

- honor

- satisfaction with the inheritance He has promised

These are perfectly clear IF/THEN promises. They're contingent upon us doing our part, but the requirements are not too difficult. 

quit criticizing and judging

honor the Sabbath

What's too hard about that?

What's not to like about God's promises of peace, hope, direction, refreshment?

Today, let's take a close look at God's promises. Are they something we want? Then let's do what it takes to have what God promises. 

Honor His day. Honor His way. Simply obey.

"Stop pointing your finger... Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon. The Lord will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength..." Isaiah 58:9-10 nlt

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In case you missed it, here's the link for yesterdays post: When Our Lives are Utterly Transformed 

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