...Makes Me Think

Judges 11:29-15:20

Today's OYCB reading has some real messed up circumstances but it makes me think...

Jephthah's vow which led to the human sacrifice of his daughter is difficult to grasp. I mean, sure, I get it that a vow is important, but to commit human sacrifice (not to mention his own and only daughter) is unthinkable with my 21st century mind. That's the key though... my 21st century mind will never understand... unless, of course, I comprehend more fully the value of words and vows in ancient times.

The problem today is that a person's word (in general terms) means less than ever before in the history of the world. But even with "ancient thinking," how was human sacrifice ever okay compared to breaking a vow?

I cannot help but correlate the powerlessness of the Church today, at least in part, to the watered-down understanding we have of words and vows (including covenants). In my opinion, this, coupled with our general proud and unrepentant attitude, effectively short-circuits any connection we might otherwise have to God's miraculous power.

The sad thing is though, most of us will not even give it a second thought. We are content with lies and pride even though we are riddled with pretty much every curse associated with disobedience to God. We are content with the God of our religion without even the slightest occurrence of the power of our God. GOD AND HIS POWER ARE INSEPARABLE. If the Bible teaches us ANYTHING, it teaches us that when God shows up, the miraculous happens! Jesus confirmed this. And, Jesus put the responsibility of faith on His followers to carry it on.

I know these thoughts are hard. Frankly, the task of pleasing God with obedience - including the obedience of faith - is overwhelming. Based on my own circumstances, I would have to conclude I am neither a good person nor a Christian. My words carry little to no meaning and my faith does not move mountains... If God and His power are inseparable, then I can only conclude that God is not in my life...

I think now I am finally getting it. I am nothing apart from God. I have no way to God except Jesus. I am dependent upon Him for everything. I can do nothing on my own - not even understand the Bible.

Father, I need You. I need Jesus to bring me to You. You are my only help and You are my only hope. Forgive me for arrogance and pride - forgive me for the torrent to stupid words I allow to escape from my mouth! Forgive me for pretending You are present in my life when my circumstances scream to the contrary. I need You - I plead "Jesus!"