Saturday 8 Nov 2014

November 8: Mark 7:5-8

Key Verse: Mark 7:8
And in vain they worship Me, Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.

Devotion:
At what stage do you stop listening to people and start listening to God? No it’s not a trick question because the bible does tell us that we should listen to others, especially those in charge. But it also gives us clear direction as to when to stop listening to people; and that is when they start going against God’s law!

This can get a bit difficult when they seem to be talking the talk and saying the right stuff. What we then have to do is to use discernment to figure out if they are just talking about things or if they are indeed doing what they are talking about. I have heard many people talk about raising disciples. I have heard many people talk about teaching the gospel. I have heard many people talk about all sorts of good stuff, but very few seem to want to get off their seats and actually do what they are saying!

When someone is talking the right way but not carrying out what they say, you can probably bet that their hearts are not in the same place as their mouths! This is what Jesus was warning the disciples about; making sure that people had a heart to follow God and not just saying the right stuff to get their own way.

Being on the receiving end of someone just trying to say the right stuff instead of believing it in their hearts leaves you empty and confused. Why should they expect to get away with giving out God’s word when they do not believe it? God may well be using them at that time, but He would be able to bless people a whole lot more if just one person would come forward with the right attitude and a heart to serve Him. Don’t just talk about doing what God has asked, get out there and do what he has asked!

Points to Ponder:
Do you feel empty when you speak about God?

Why should others have to feel empty when listening about God?