Nougat 18

Are you familiar with the idea ‘Heavenly bound, but no earthly good?’ We usually believe that it applies to everyone except us, but are there times it applies to us? Today’s Holy Nougat invites reflection.

“‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭15‬:‭8‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Far From God

They say actions speak louder than words. And if that’s the case, then we must ensure that our spiritual walk matches our talk. Sometimes our actions and even what we say suggests we are counterfeit.

In the verses prior, Jesus spoke of those who didn’t honor their parents, yet professed to be holier than others. Hmmn there’s that. And we might correctly say that we do not disrespect our parents; but what about those who are old enough to be our parents? Ouch

Then there’s the issue when we contingency plan God out of what we have already ‘handed over’ to God. If it’s God’s domain, well … Not to mention when we begin to doubt God because of prayers that didn’t get answered as planned. Psalm 53 reminds us that the foolish doubt God in our hearts, even when we claim belief. That’s how denying God’s existence begins. I know I’ve been guilty.

Can we take a few moments to consider how we have been disloyal to God, or dishonorable?

Search us oh Lord Jesus, soften our hearts to feel the check in our spirit. Cleanse us from our sins and free us from disloyalty. Amen

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May all we seek be found in Christ