I read through Matthew 18-20 today, and looked at what else Jesus had to say about the kingdom of heaven. First of all, humility is required. Obedience is important, as well as encouraging others to be obedient. Finding the value in others, whether Christians or not, forgiving consistently and completely out of a knowledge of the forgiveness we've been given, recognizing how much more important the eternal is than the temporal, and living in a way that shows that are all part of being a citizen of the kingdom. Again, He also shows that God is not being unfair or capricious in His judgments, He has offered each of us the same thing, eternal life, regardless of when we choose to accept it. Those who think they are 'more deserving' must realize that no one is deserving, we are all alike in a fallen state, and we are all given salvation. Jesus also talks about servant leadership - leading from a humble heart, serving others and serving God - that's the attitude I need to have whenever I'm in a position of leadership, let alone the fact that I should be living that way anyway.
Another topic Jesus talks about is divorce. Marriage is intended to be permanent. Divorce is contrary to God's plan for marriage, and is an indicator that one's heart is hard. I do not want to be hard-hearted, but have the heart of God - a heart that is humble, patient, kind, and never gives up. If and when I get married, it will have to be well considered and serious, because I will not look at divorce as an option. My desire is for a godly marriage that will reflect the love between God and His people, and God's love never fails, never wanes, never meets an obstacle it cannot overcome. That is the love I intend to have, and need to have, when I get married.
No comments:
Post a Comment