Your Relationship with God

I believe that making a fool out of ourselves is inevitable. During foolish moments, we could either dig ourselves further in the situation or learn, take responsibility, and ultimately become stronger despite our foolish act. The choice is ours and ours alone. Our Christian witness will hinge on these moments in life. It is easy to behave perfectly when circumstances are just right. When mayhem strikes, emotions run high, or bad choices are made, what does our behavior look like then? When our figurative rooster crows, will we recognize our errors, or will we continue down the same path?

15 Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Tend My lambs.” 16 He said to him again a second time, “Simon son of John, do you love Me?” He said to Him, “ Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Shepherd My Sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me?” Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?” And he said to Him, “Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You,” Jesus said to Him, “Tend My Sheep.” John 21:15-17

Jesus helped Peter confirm what Peter thought he felt. That is where most foolish behavior comes from in our lives. We think we are firm in our beliefs, but when push comes to shove, we fall. So, the question becomes, do we really believe what we think we know? Do we really believe the Bible? Do we really want to be obedient? Do we really love God? Ouch! Matthew 22:37 says You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.

So today, ask yourself these questions. What do I feel about God? Do I have a personal relationship with God? What would I give up for God? (Habits, relaxation, hobbies, friends) Where do I draw the line with God? (Church, ministry, family, job) When we choose not to love and obey God, then we are literally acting like Peter and denying Him. Our choices are to love God, which will lead to our obedience of God, or to deny God and live life according to our flesh.

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L. Kathleen Cline

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