FROM THE KEYBOARD

Rebellious man exchanges truth for lies, the Creator for creation, and natural love for unnatural lust. These gross exchanges inevitably lead to judgment. Yet, God's great grace offers the ultimate exchange: our sin and death for His Son and life. You see, the exchange purchased by Christ is not about changing one's behavior but about transforming one's nature, from death to life, from darkness to light. "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23).

Though man’s disgraces are outrageous, God’s grace is greater than all of this. This means that as the world gets darker, God’s grace makes our lives brighter. As the world becomes more hateful, we must remain faithful. And as many are confused, we are called to bring them the truth. "But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more" (Romans 5:20).

Without self-control, our lives can become chaotic and vulnerable, just like a city with broken walls. Today, let us seek God's strength to rule over our own spirits, guarding our hearts and minds against anything that would breach our defenses. Remember, through Christ, we have the power to rebuild and fortify the walls of our spiritual lives. "Whoever has no rule over his own spirit is like a city broken down, without walls" (Proverbs 25:28).

The truth of God's Word never expires nor can it ever be called a liar. And that is why we are not to change God's Word but we are to allow God's Word to change us. "Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven" (Psalm 119:89).

Nothing can make you lose your hunger for the things of the world like the taste of God's amazing grace. Once you experience His grace, everything else pales in comparison. "Taste and see that the Lord is good" (Psalm 34:8) and your appetite for the world will diminish.

Remember, the world may call you hateful, but it is not hateful to be faithful to God‘s word. Stand firm in truth and love, knowing that "all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16).