Tuesday, July 5, 2005
Psalm 1:1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.
IT'S FUN TO FOLLOW GOD!
One of the devil's favorite activities is convincing people that following the way of sin is more fun than following the way of righteousness. For example, he wants you to think that it's more enjoyable to speak coarsely than to let words of grace and love come from your lips. He wants you to think that you'll have more good times if you live somewhat "on the wild side" rather than being a "goody-goody" who always tries to do what is right. There is a certain perception out there that being a little naughty can make you happier, and our flesh agrees!
But it's a horrible deception, isn't it? Sin doesn't make us feel better. It doesn't make people happy. It leads to sorrow, guilt, frustration, broken relationships, anger, and much more. The Psalm tells the real truth here: "Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly . . ." Blessed (happy) is the person who avoids the temptations of the evil one.
It's fun to follow God! Why? Because where sin's call leads to hardship and misery, God's call leads to peace and joy. He says, "Look to me and I will show you forgiveness for your sins. I will show you your Savior and your salvation. I will show you love and mercy. I will show you all the things that can make you truly happy. I will bring you good tidings of great joy." And He does.
