In the Sermon on the Mount. that historic message, Jesus challenges His listeners to change their minds about how they can be part of His kingdom, saying at one point that not everyone who says, “Lord, Lord,” will be saved (Matthew 7:21). To that point many believed that just by being related to Abraham and Moses and by obeying the Law of Moses they were assured of their place in God’s kingdom. Jesus counters that notion directly. Jesus says, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”
According to George Barna information:
- Only 12% of young people, ages 18-24, claim to be born again Christians.
- According to Barna’s research, 1 in 5 churched Generation Z (22%) and Millennials (20%) agree that they are rethinking or drifting away from their faith practices.
- Where are those who are serious going to attend? A number of U.S. churches are only open for small gathering or meetings (22%) or staff (21%), just over half (52%) are open for normal use
- 24% of pastors believe their congregation won’t begin to physically gather together again for some time.
It is time for us to make a commitment to the Lord to, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your HEART, SOUL, STRENGTH and with all your MIND‘; and ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'” (Luke 10:27). Prayer and fasting are also important at this time, Jesus said, “When you pray…” (Matt. 6: 5, 6, 7) and “When you fast…” (Matt. 6: 16, 17) Also, “…let us not GROW WEARY WHILE DOING GOOD, for in due season WE SHALL REAP if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us DO GOOD TO ALL, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” (Gal. 6:9-10)
This is what will really help us to trust in God, He says, “I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I WILL LISTEN TO YOU. YOU WILL SEEK ME and FIND ME when you seek me with all your heart.” (Jer. 29:11-13)
Your Personal pastor -Bill Stockham