Musick-al Note # 113
We read the Old Testament with dismay of the accounts of many men and the Israelites who hardened their hearts as revealed in the Word of God and wonder that they could not see the folly of their ways and turn to obey God. What vast changes would have been made in history if these would have repented and followed the will of the Father? What would have been the outcome if Cain had repented to obey God? No one could possibly conceive of the vast difference it would have made in the annals of history as well as in their lives. Consider the time when the spies returned from examining the Promised Land. Had they trusted God, they would have entered instead of 40 years of wandering and death in the wilderness. We are quick to condemn for we are able to read and understand the outcome of the total situation. Yet at the same time we condemn them because we are able to read the history of destruction that followed their action. Do we really have a heart that is responsive and yielding to the Loving God? Do we willingly follow His commands or follow our own wills? Here is a test of ourselves whether our hearts are hardened or responsive. If we disagree over some matter, do our feelings got hurt and we do not even speak to that person. In our pride of thinking that we could not possibly be wrong, do we expect them to come on bended knee for pardon as though we are a supreme being. Do we hold our grudge against them instead of humbly and in love settle our differences as God requests?
Sometimes we are quick to castigate those who will not obey the Gospel of Christ, while at the same time we have no intention of giving our all to the Lord. Many of us would do just as the rich young ruler (Luke 18:18-23) if we were faced with the same commandment. We detest the Pharisees because of the woes Jesus placed upon them (Matthew 23) but how often we do the same. We exalt ourselves in pride, appear righteous by attending services and giving out of our wealth. We even hinder others who would enter the kingdom of God by not teaching the Word of God in love and humility. How hard is your heart? Do you respond to the will of God or do you go your own way? Do you seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness or your own will? How hard IS your heart?
Gordon Musick
Musick-al Notes 