“Do not let your heart envy sinners, but always be zealous for the fear of the Lord. There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.” Proverbs 23:17-18 NIV
This scripture says it clearly. There are so many times when the lives of those who don’t know God seems so much more appealing, fulfilling, and favorable than those who serve God with all their heart. But what then? Are there promises stored up for sinners? Is there a future hope in living the lifestyle? When all is said and done, what are the results that remain?
Some may not think that the lifestyle they live now will affect their future. So busy living in the moment, the future is a future thought. A child who was led by the wrong company of mischievous friends and fell into the hands of the law, now has a future that is a direct result of their earlier years. Their years of FUN and FREEDOM, can never be redone to yield a different result. But although their lives where stamped and sealed by the law, there are those who’s wayward lives were not affected by the law; however one may wonder if later misfortunes in life was their conviction for such deeds.
Living lives undisciplined and unguided certainly has a way of rewarding us accordingly as we face our latter and more mature years. The bible says “When you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness [you had no desire to conform to God’s will]. So what benefit did you get at that time from the things of which you are now ashamed? [None!]” Romans 6:20-21 AMP
There are things we live with every day that remind us of our past choices. We were happy and free. “You who are young, be happy while you are young, and let your heart give you joy in the days of your youth. Follow the ways of your heart and whatever your eyes see, but know that for all these things God will bring you into judgment.” Ecclesiastes 11:9 NIV
Judgement is certainly a hard pill to swallow. But in all these things, the bible teaches us to “flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.” 2 Timothy 2:22 NIV. “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12 NIV
When your eyes get large with envy, remind yourself that…
God has plans for you and your hope will not be cut off.
We don’t serve a God that operates in a flashy, pompous mentality. We serve a humble God. A God who is jealous for us. “…for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.” Exodus 20:5-6 NIV.
Isn’t his love worth extending to your generations?
No matter our past, no matter how long the road was to get to God. We can never turn around and redo what was already done but it is never too late to have our heart renewed and restored. It is never too late to be passionate about the things of God. No matter your age, exercise your gifts and take joy in them. Do not take your talents for granted. There are promises stored up for you. He will guide you into your purpose. He will open doors for you into your calling. “There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.” Proverbs 23:18 NIV
Be Blessed,
G.M.
G.M. Sunshine 