Monday, May 30, 2016

Hill Climbers (Psa. 24:3) (Part 1)

 Who May Ascend Into The Hill of The Lord?

THOSE WHO ARE DISCONTENT TO REMAIN ON A PLATEAU MAY ASCEND INTO THE HILL OF THE LORD.

 Believers in Jesus discover early that the path they are called to travel has an incline. While this upward climb contains many pleasantries and offers many benefits, it is not always comfortable nor convenient. Developing as a believer is similar to a stairmaster, not a moving sidewalk.
“I'm pressing on the upward way,
New heights I'm gaining ev'ry day;
Still praying as I onward bound,
'Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.'”1

It is easy to settle into religion. Religion says that you are alright so long as you play by the rules and don't buck the system. Religion is a plateau.
  • Attend church on Sunday and be sure to bring your Bible.
  • Put something in the offering.
  • Stand when asked to stand, sit when asked to sit.
  • Say nice things to people before and after service.

It is easy to settle into God's promises. Promises are memorized and spewed as if the point of it all is to remain blessed and comfortable, possessing many toys when you die. Promises can be a plateau.

Thank You, Jesus, for all of Your blessings! Amen?  Having experienced so many blessings, is it possible to coast along? Just because blessings are pursuing you doesn't mean you are pursuing Jesus.

A plateau is a level place best suited for temporary rest. As believers in Jesus, there are times in life where we need to rest, right?  How is it that leveling off can become a homestead instead of a pit stop? If you're not willing to leave the plateau, you will not grow very much in Jesus.

1Oatman, Johann. “Higher Ground.” Hymns of Glorious Praise. Sprinigfield, MO: Gospel Publishing House, 1969. Hymn #321.

No comments: