Thursday, September 18, 2014

September 19, 2014

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33

I believe one reason for the popularity of team sports is because it's easy for everyone to know where they stand every moment of the game.

Since it is football season let's use a football game to illustrate the point.

A football field is clearly marked with bright white lines so you know when you are on the field and exactly where you are on the field. 

Also, because of the scoreboard you know which quarter you are in, you know how much time is left in that quarter, you will know what down it is, and how long you have to go to get a first down. 

Every coach and every player and every fan can know instantly who is winning and who is losing and how much time is left in the quarter and which quarter of the game. When the final score is reported it will include the scoring by each quarter of the game that led to the final score. In fact, the down and distance is a primary factor in determining which play the offensive and defensive coaches will call.

The yardage markings on the field make it possible to keep statistics for rushing and passing for teams and individual players. 

One second after the game ends everyone knows who won and who lost. One second after the game you know who had a great game and who had a poor game. One second after the game all the coaches, all the players and all the fans know exactly where they stand.

Unfortunately, real life doesn't work that neatly. You may set tight schedules and goals to measure your growth and progress, but you still don't know from minute to minute where you stand in the game.

One second after you die you will know exactly where you stand, but unfortunately it will be too late to make necessary adjustments.

So, what are you supposed to do to make sure you are on the winning team when the clock runs out for you?

Jesus gives the answer quite clearly in His Sermon on the Mount. The message of this teaching is summarized in our text - "Seek to know God everyday and to live His righteousness in every way."

To receive His righteousness you must confess your unrighteousness and turn from your self-righteousness and surrender all attempts to save yourself.

Then you can know by trusting Christ as Savior you have been made righteous. And you can be sure that one second after you die you will be with Him!