crossroads

There are many things I see Christians saying and then doing the opposite. As a Christian, aren't you supposed to set a positive example? Let's take this double standard point a few steps further if I may.

What makes something "wrong"? Not following a law? Not following a rule? Doing something that doesn’t feel right? Doing something that is morally wrong? If so, who's law? Who's rule? What if you're a Christian and your action happens to go against God's will? Isn't that wrong? If so, isn't not listening to God disobedience?

So, John 3:16 says that anyone who believes in Jesus will have everlasting life. However, we need to define "believe" because even the devil believes in God (James 2:19 "Thou believest there is one god; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."). So the devil believes Jesus was the son of God, so believing must mean you have to know/believe more than "yes, God exists", right? Otherwise the devil would be in heaven! First John 2:3 says "And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments." It looks like we have to know God (have a relationship with) and follow His commandments!

So... what if we don't keep His commandments? What if we ignore His words and self indulge in our wants, like getting drunk (Eph 5:18)? Does not listening to God make me any better than someone that doesn't believe in God at all? Makes a guy wonder where we stand as far as being saved. The real question is: Is "try"ing enough or do we have to "do"?

I'm defiantly at a crossroads. To my left, a road. A paved road well traveled, full ease and leisure. A road that goes downhill, where no effort is needed and if I were on a bike, could coast for miles. To my right a dirt path, steep and rugged. It goes up a the side of a mountain, and the path is slightly overgrown because few dare men dare to climb it. Now I know which path is correct... but taking it requires more technical climbing and effort than I have. For this path I need faith. I already started the climb, but summiting is going to take some time, patience, and help. Good thing I have good friends to help in my belay.