Before diving into the scriptures I’d like to apologize to my readers for the delay in posting this blog, which was due last Tuesday. I was eager to share this message but ran into a few difficulties along the way.
First of all, I expected to access my computer Tuesday evening when we returned home from our Las Vegas trip where my husband and I attended a financial conference. When I opened my laptop I discovered that its security system had expired, leaving me unable to do any work until I received a code from my provider. Early the next morning my husband made the call and renewed our contract but it still took yet another day before we received the code. And, here we are.
So, without further ado. Is it possible to live a life that does not offend God or man?
When we made plans to go to Vegas we expected that we would encounter a life style that was quite different than what we were accustom to. The conference we attended, however, was held at the same hotel where we stayed and was very accommodating to our normal lifestyle.
We did venture out, though, to search out restaurants and to do some site seeing when we encountered, several loud, dark, gambling casinos filled with heavy smoke as well as a number of individuals that were dressed provocatively (to say the least). Not good for one’s physical or moral health.
Before leaving home we had discussed what we might encounter and prepared to pray for such individuals and to witness to them whenever possible. Because we expected this experience we were not caught off guard.
Apostle Paul said in Acts 24:16 “And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.” (KJV)
Paul declared that he would have a clear conscience with God and with men. He purposed to be void of offence with God and man. How did he succeed? He said that he exercised.
I know that there are certain exercises for strengthening leg muscles and others for strengthening the arms. So, what kind of exercise did Paul do to have always a conscience void of offense toward God and toward man? In Acts 24:14 he tells us that he did things God’s way. So, Paul first studied the ways of God and then practiced them.
There is a great word picture of that in Colossians 2:6 & 7 which says to walk like Jesus by being rooted in His ways. Chapter 3 goes on to say in verses 5, 8 and 9 what specifically we are to do. We are to mortify our members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry…and to also do away with, anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication and lying.
Later, in verses 12, 13, and 14 we read what to do or rather what to put on. That would be bowels of mercy, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering (forbearing one another, and forgiving one another), and love.
Paul, though very knowledgeable in the Word, was also baptized in the Holy Spirit according to Acts 9:17. The purpose of the Holy Spirit is to lead us into all truth. There will always be times when we do not know how to handle a given situation but the Holy Spirit can help if we will only yield.
It is easy to plan ahead knowing the reputation of Vegas. However, this world will not always give us such a preview. So, it is important to not only learn about God and exercise His ways but to let the peace of God rule in your heart (verse 15) by yielding to this Holy Spirit.
Think about those times when you have encountered situations that have caught you off guard. For instance, somebody spoke in an ugly tone to you. Or, somebody cheated you out of some money. How strong are you? Have you exercised yourself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men?
Because we are a people who can always learn more about God and His ways it is vital that we allow the Holy Spirit to become our helper. It is a free gift from God. All we have to do is ask and receive.
I really like what Bill Johnson said. He stated that the Holy Spirit is like a dove that lands on your shoulder. It is very skittish and will fly away if you make a bad move. So, walk in a way that will allow it to rest on you.
Remember, that Jesus did not come to condemn the world but rather to bring life and life abundantly. Often times we handle those things we encounter in a condemning way if we have not received the revelation of the Word or if we have not allowed the dove to land and rest upon us.
We can live as Paul did if we will exercise ourselves, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men. Take some time today to think about what that looks like in your situations. If you have offended go and make it right.
God Bless You for taking the time today to read the truth.
Dr. Terry
It makes one’s life a much better one to live, by living as God would.
Diane, you are so right. We see how things go when we lean on our own understanding. Not so good.
Wow this is so great!! I wrote down Acts 24:16 and taped it on my wall the other day! ??? I love your post!!
Thanks Tara, I am so glad you are reading and posting the scriptures on your wall.
Yes it helps so much! I have posted lots in the kitchen too! ??
Tara,
The Word says we are to put it before us so that we do not forget. Many people will read and move on. Others, like yourself, will read and meditate upon the Word until it becomes a part of them. Blessings!