Some read this and think we are not to be seen or known for good things we do. I believe that to be a misreading of the text. What it comes down to is the motivation for your 'acts of righteousness'. Matthew tells us not to do them before others in order to be seen by them. In other words, check the motive. Are you doing good so that others can see how good you are, or are you doing good regardless of whether others see you or not? Modeling righteousness can be instructive and inspiring. But if it's motivated by human pride-- hoping for, or expecting accolades, then how righteous is it?
Readings: Genesis 16:1-18:19; Matthew 6:1-24; Psalm 7:1-17; Proverbs 2:1-5
So, Ishmael has been the apple of Abraham's eye for 13 years. It is obvious that Abraham loves him as he asked God for his blessing on him. Wonder how Ishmael is going to like it when Isaac comes along?
ReplyDeleteSo, the three men weren't actually men, were they? If one is later revealed to be the LORD, then the other two must have been angels. (??) Plain old men wouldn't have been out walking with God, right?
How is it that Abraham was able to look upon the face of God?
If we call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if we look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then we will understand the fear of the LORD.
Hmmm. If I knew there was hidden treasure buried on my land somewhere, or hidden in my house somewhere, I don't think I'd be sitting on the couch watching TV. I don't think I search very hard for this understanding that is promised. That is a shame.
Is forgiveness conditional?
Paula
Thank you, Paula. You state it beautifully. As for forgiveness being conditional-- I would think it has to be somewhat conditional as it's relational in nature. Would like to know what you and others think as to whether it is or not and if you agree with me that it is somewhat conditional, what would make it so?
ReplyDeleteWell, it says in the bible that as you forgive, so you shall be forgiven. That sounds conditional to me. But, it sounds a little contradictory to the idea that once saved, always saved (which not everyone agrees with, by the way - have had heated conversations with my in-laws regarding this very thing). I don't think I can enter heaven if I'm not forgiven, and if I haven't forgiven someone, then God won't forgive me, or so it seems to say. That one is troublesome. Not that I have anyone I haven't forgiven, but nothing really bad has ever happened to me, so I haven't had to be put to the test in that area.
ReplyDelete