Hosanna Restoration Church

Sometimes it seems like Jesus gave us impossible tasks. Most recently we talked about how we need to quit judging and now we run into stopping our complaining and arguing! At times, it seems that both assignments could reasonably be labeled impossible. In the natural they may seem that way, but we then we must remember that “with God” all things are possible.

These words are not given to us to discourage us and make us feel that we could never measure up. Rather they are given to show us what is possible. Let’s face it we don’t feel good when we ware judging, arguing, or complaining. All of these things work to stir up bitterness in our spirits and we know that truly a bitter spirit does weary our bones. These things keep us awake at night and take away our joy. We don’t want these things in our lives, but we often give in to the lie that we just can’t help it. We feel like we can justify it, and most certainly there are times when it seems like the only thing we could have done. That is of course until we are reminded of what the Lord says.

Jesus never argued with anyone. He simply stated the facts and that was it. If they agreed fine, if they didn’t, that was their privilege. I am not sure, but I think the thing that gets most of us in trouble is that we are not content to state the facts and then let each have their own opinion. We want to change the opinion of the other person. We feel that is the only way that we can be right. We could sure save ourselves a lot of trouble if we just left it to God to reveal the truth to all parties involved. After all, it is pretty painful when we argue strenuously for a point only to discover that we were wrong and now we have some apologies to make! (Smile, you’ve probably done it.)

Just think of the peace and rest it will add to our lives if we allow God to help us to do these things. Rather than reading these words and brushing them off as being impossible, why don’t we declare them as a desirable and attainable goal? Why don’t we acknowledge that this is what we need and want and that we will do it with God’s help?

There is a very good reason for us to do these things besides the peace they will bring to our lives. Getting these wrong attitudes and actions out of our lives, will open the door to answered prayers. In Matthew chapter 7, after Jesus spoke about judging, He said, “Ask and you will be given what you ask for.” Just think if you were asking while you were judging what you might ask God to do to someone! Or, what would you be seeking if you are still arguing and complaining? What kind of doors would you be knocking on?

If we want to move into the realm where He is going to give us what we ask for, we need to be wise and under control in our asking. We know that the power of life and death are in our tongues. We can speak ourselves right into sickness, poverty, and pain, or we can be well, prosperous, and comforted. We can have what Jesus says. He never lied and He never will. As always, it is our choice.