Pastor Bob DuPar
October 24, 2008

Journal Entry



Scripture

Jeremiah 44:24-47:7; 2 Timothy 2:22-3:17; Psalm 94:1-23; Proverbs 26:6-8

Observation

“Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth. Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants.” 2 Timothy 2:25-26

“…in the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. …They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!”
2 Timothy 3:1-2, 5

“Yes, and everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12

“How long, O Lord? How long will the wicked be allowed to gloat? …They crush Your people, Lord, hurting those You claim as Your own. ‘…The Lord isn’t looking,’ they say, ‘and besides, the God of Israel doesn’t care.’ Think again, you fools! When will you finally catch on? Is He deaf—the One who made your ears? Is He blind—the One who formed your eyes? He punishes the nations—won’t He also punish you? He knows everything—doesn’t He also know what you are doing?” Psalm 94:3, 5, 7-10

“When doubts filled my mind, Your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer.” Psalm 94:19

Application

Gentle instruction rather than pushy obnoxiousness softens the hearts of those who oppose the truth. It helps to point out to unbelievers that they are not really free; they are held captive to fulfill Satan’s desires, not theirs.

It sounds like we’re in the last days by the description found in 2 Timothy 3:1-5. I’m convicted by the question, “Am I someone who acts religious, but rejects the power which is able to make me godly?”

Prayer

“Lord, when will I catch on? You do see all, and You require more of me, more from me, than the scraps of obedience which I bring to the altar.”