Scripture
3 For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. 4 They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. 5 But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.
Reflection
In previous chapters of our lives we used to live a certain way, a way without Christ. We followed our passions without restraint, we “joined in” when others invited us, never thinking about what we were doing. We were challenged by our friends to drink more, party more and have sex more without counting the cost to ourselves or to others. Then one day it all stopped. What was once a happy friendship became a resentment, the kind of resentment people feel when confronted by what is unfamiliar to them. The old friends used to heap abuse upon themselves now they heap it on you. If Christianity teaches anything it teaches that everyone will give an account for their own lives. That’s not a threat, it’s a promise (Ps. Dale).
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell us about God and people?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- What is one way you can apply this truth to your life today?
- Who can you encourage with this story/message?
Prayer
Pray for the spiritually lost among the global community in Shanghai; pray that they will be drawn to God by the Holy Spirit.
