September 18, 2020
FROM YOUR PASTOR’S DESK:
SELF-EXAMINATION: ANTIDOTE TO DRIFTING AWAY SPIRITUALLY
“Lest at any time we let them slip (drift away from).”
Heb. 2:1, KJV.
“For every one who falls into great sin, there are then who are drifting. Even when one seems to leap suddenly into sin, it is often the case that he has PREVIOUSLY been drifting, UNNOTICED by others, and perhaps by himself. Most open sin BEGINS by slowly drifting. Therefore, let all beware!
“Float past, ‘drift away,’ ‘slip away.’ These are different renderings, and all of them significant. We are told that we OUGHT to give the more earnest heed, that is, we MUST, we OWE it, it is IMPERATIVE. We are to be watchful lest we float past, or drift away from the MOORINGS of the Word of God!
“In view of this danger, it behooves each one to EXAMINE HIMSELF, lest he be drifting without being aware of his peril:(1) carelessness in prayer (2) discontinuance of family worship (3) absence from church services (4) lukewarmness in spiritual of church activities (5) neglect of Bible study of private devotion (6) avoidance of the ordinances of the Lord’s house (7) remissness in tithes and offerings—these and many other signs should be carefully watched. Our ATTITUDE towards them indicates if and how fast we are drifting! The apostle’s admonition against drifting is as applicable today [right now] as when it was written.” – M. L. Andreasen, The Book of Hebrews, p. 82.
“Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Prove yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you? Unless indeed you are disqualified.” 2 Cor. 13:5, NKJV.
David prayed: “Examine me, O Lord, and prove me; try my mind and my heart.” Ps. 26:2. See also Ps. 139: 23, 24.
God bless all, NMF