Love vs. Justice

We all know how easy it can be to accept accolades.  Compliments make us all feel good about ourselves, and love is divine.  We all want what we think we have coming to us, and many times we want it without overcoming hurdles or putting in the work.  Think back to when you were young.  If you experienced love from your parents, there was nothing that could make your day better, nothing to make your little world an amazing place.  But let's be honest, we all had to face justice from a parent's hand as well; and as much as we didn't like it, it was that justice that truly forged us into respectable human beings.  God carries that responsibility for each and everyone of us, and it is his perfect combination of love and justice that keeps us on the road to glory.  

Dale brings this idea to the table on this week's episode of the Growing Together podcast.  It might not be a revelation, but it certainly is an inspired choice.  Many of us look to God as our Father, but sometimes we fail to realize just what that title carries with it when it comes to our relationship with him.  We crave his love, his blessings, and the miracles he can perform in our lives.  We always ask of him, plead with him, and have the expectation that he will be there for us when we fall.  We expect God to listen when we speak, to love us unconditionally.  He most certainly will do all of these things, because he loves us like no human being ever could.  However, just like when we were young, we are not always so willing to listen ourselves when it doesn't fit into our plans, when it might be painful to admit we have some growing left to do.

Dale begs us to consider this crucial part of our relationship.  Owning up to mistakes and shortcomings with an attitude that promotes growth tells God that we are sincere about submitting to God's will and purposes.  Facing God's justice with truth and maturity will assure that we learn something from our shortcomings.  We will continue to give ourselves up to God and allow him to work in each and every one of us.  Honesty is the best policy.  He already knows what you are going to do, what you have done.  He is the only one that can provide the love and justice necessary to elevate us from our troubles and rebuild a broken relationship.

The Growing Together podcast welcomes all.  New Christians, seasoned Christians.  Those that have been sitting on the fence, not sure if they are ready to begin their journey.  Those that may have said they will never give their life to Christ.  No matter what your situation is, we welcome you to give the podcast a listen.  Every episode is a free download.  No subscriptions, no fees, no regrets.  So what are you waiting for?  Listen to the latest episode or choose one from over a hundred episodes in our history.  it just may ignite that spark you've been missing.  Have a great week and we will see you soon!