Warnings!

I find that sometimes "Warnings!" are hard to take seriously. They are so numerous and many claim such a high level of urgency. But because life is so fast-paced and demanding I have often left warnings unheeded and paid a price for my inaction. Ignoring God's warnings can have a long-range impact during this life and beyond.

a) Warning about Obedience - In 2 Chronicles, Chapter 7 God warns Solomon if Israel turns away from Him to serve other gods then He will uproot them from His land and cast the temple out of His sight. Inspite of this warning Israel's disobedience becomes legendary. The temple and the kingdom are destroyed as God had warned them and the people of Israel are carried off in exile to another land.

b) Warning about Doctrine - In his second letter, John warns the church about those who say that Jesus did not come as a real flesh and blood person. He further explains that these deceivers believe Jesus was only divine, that He was not fully God and fully man in the same person. For Jesus to be the savior of the world he had to be "God and Man" to perfectly pay for our sins and to be raised bodily (not just spiritually) from the grave. This provides us with proof that Jesus truly conquered both sin and death. This was the only way for Him to bridge the gap between us and God.

c) Warning about "Faith" and "Actions" - In Chapter 2 of Habukkuk the prophet warns that faith is not a one-time act; it is a way of life. He says, "The just will live by faith." Our faith in God should affect the way we live each day. Are we just, merciful, and compassionate in our dealings with others?

d) Warning about being self-centered - In Luke, Chapter 21 a poor woman gives all that she has to live on, two pennies, as her offering to God at the temple. She is totally God-centered showing her gratitude to God and trusting that He will meet her future needs. This serves as a challenge and a warning to anyone who is leading a self-centered life.

e) Warning about our future - Later in Chapter 21 of Luke, Jesus gives us a picture of the end times. It can be taken as either a warning or as encouragement. He says, "During the end times there will be fear and perplexity. The sea and the waves will roar and the power of heaven will be shaken. Then you will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things happen look up for your redemption draws near. I believe that when this time comes God will be asking each of us one question, "What did you do regarding My Son - Jesus?