A popular saying that emerged from the sixties was "In God We Trust-All Others pay Cash." We saw it above cash registers, heard it in jokes, and there has even become a cult classic movie, based on the book by Jean Shepherd of the same title. And you have seen it in reruns on Christmas day, as it has become a classic-A Christmas Story. Which is based on the short stories in Shepherd's book. Never heard it? Look at your money, at least the In God We Trust part is still there. And some places even still take cash-if you have two forms of identification.
The great hypocrisy today is we are all hypocrites. The word, based on Greek actors, who held up masks to show happiness or displeasure, covering their faces while acting so the audience would know the story better. And today, the masks are in anything but short supply. And worn for various reasons. And some extend from head to toe, those wearing them not content to just cover their face. And I am not talking about the world, but Christians. I think of the woman who came in once and was in such a hurry, she all but told me she was the most important person in the world. When I commented on her "God has everything under control" sticker, and that it even took Jesus three days to complete His resurrection, she got irate-and even more impatient. And I find nothing shows a better witness of Christ in your life than cutting people off in traffic, with your rear window covered with Jesus stickers. Talking on your cell phone while doing it just adds to your lack of witness.
But we say we trust God, but do we? When faced with a financial situation, do we gripe and complain, or trust Him? Do we render unto Caesar what is his, or do we begin to cheat, manipulate, and lean on our own understanding? I am also reminded how recently a female, circuit judge ruled a national day of prayer unconstitutional-and so many got upset and didn't pray. Shame on you! Do you need a law to pray? Did you talk to your pastor? Was your church open that day for people to gather in prayer? But no-so many took the stand that our freedoms were being abused, but never went to the source of freedom, Jesus. And by the way, even memorials have a moment of silence-how many of you can pray silently? God is not deaf! But yet we still feel better when government or man or whatever takes care of us-and so many miss the boat-or the blessings. Who do you pray to when you are neither brave, nor free?
God has always raised up an answer to any situation. When He saw Adam had no one like him, He created Eve for him, so he would not be alone. When the disciples came to Jesus, not once, but twice, saying how can we feed this crowd, they didn't go to city hall. They went to Him, and He provided enough for over 5000, with enough left over for dinner. When the man was beaten on the highway, God provided a good Samaritan to take care of him and his needs. And an innkeeper to assist until he returned. And lastly, another innkeeper, who when a young teenager with child was about to give birth, and was out of rooms, gave her a place in the barn. Alone and quiet, so she could have her child. A child who would change the world. Jesus Christ-born in a stable. In each and every situation, God, not government-God, not VISA, God, not man, met the need, and provided the way out that they needed.
But I do pray! But do you listen for His answer? Prayer is not a monologue, but a dialogue. Those who I consider prayer warriors, listen more than they ask. What soldier asks for direction, then doesn't take it? Simple enough-it is up to us to obey, and follow. Do you truly trust God? It is hard to trust someone you don't know. So get to know Him. It's easy, and doesn't cost anything. Keep your money in your wallet. He wants your heart, so He can impact your life, and give you blessings beyond measure. And to even involve you in His daily life-maybe you can be an Eve to a lonely man, you can provide a meal to a hungry person, tend to the needs of one who is hurting , or give a place to rest to one who is tired. But you will never know until you let yourself be led by God. so many ask, but so few receive.
Listen to God today-and trust Him. Be the blessed, and not the cursed. Live up to the bumper sticker on your car-and watch as God draws people to you to minister to-instead of watching people leave as you approach. God will provide you with a Lazarus today to minister to. Will you step over him, look for government aid, or address his need in love, like Jesus did?
No cash? Jesus still saves, and at today's prices that too is a miracle. If He can feed 5000 with two fish and five crackers, why not seek Him when hungry? If He can provide your daily needs, why go anywhere else? If He can raise the dead, why not be resurrected with Him? and if He can save your soul, why not give Him your life?
Still can't meet the needs? In God you trust?
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com