“Thus says the LORD: “Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, let not the mighty man glory in his might, nor let the rich man glory in his riches; But let him who glories GLORY IN THIS, that he understands and KNOWS ME (yâda‛: the relationship between man and God, a DEEP INTIMACY that the Father longs to have with His children.), That I AM THE LORD, exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. For IN THESE I DELIGHT,” says the LORD.” (Jeremiah 9:23-24)
Job said, “…where can wisdom be found? And where is the place of understanding…God understands its way, And He knows its place…to man He said, ‘Behold, the FEAR (yir’âh: respect, reverence, a terrifying dread) OF THE LORD, THAT IS WISDOM, And to DEPART FROM EVIL IS UNDERSTANDING.'” (Job 28:20, 23, 28) We normally hear of “The Fear of The Lord” as being reverent or respectful. Because that is the comfort level of most. But the Bible clearly teaches that “…our God is a CONSUMING FIRE.” (Hebrews 12:29) And to those who claim to know (yâda‛) the Lord but DO NOT “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven. Only those who OBEY MY FATHER IN HEAVEN will enter. “Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord! Lord! Didn’t we prophesy in your name? Didn’t we drive out demons in your name? Didn’t we do many miracles in your name?’ Then I (the Lord) will tell them clearly, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU. Depart from Me, you who do evil!’” (Matthew 7:21-23)
To those who are faithful to God He says, “Well done, good and faithful servant; ENTER INTO THE JOY OF YOUR LORD.” (Matthew 25:21)
Your Personal Pastor -Bill Stockham