Enter in Silence. Ecclesiastes 5-6; First John 5

May the mumbling commence!

When we enter the presence of God, we should be all ears.  You know – listen at least twice as much as we talk.  That way we will avoid rash promises that we cannot turn away from.  Read from Ecclesiastes chapter five:

As you enter the house of God, keep your ears open and your mouth shut! Don't be a fool who doesn't realize that mindless offerings to God are evil.  And don't make rash promises to God, for he is in heaven, and you are only here on earth. So let your words be few. (Verses 1-2)

Listen, listen, listen!  Then, think before you speak.  No mindless words will be positive.  A few words well thought out are more valuable than millions of rash words.

And let’s learn a lesson that is a toughie for those in the United States.  Enjoy what you have.  Be content.  No more pining after what you do not have.  Read from Ecclesiastes chapter six:

Enjoy what you have rather than desiring what you don't have. Just dreaming about nice things is meaningless; it is like chasing the wind.  (Verse 9)

That thought is revolutionary!  It will lead to a new practice.  It will lead us away from idols.  Read from the end of First John (chapter five):

We know that those who have become part of God's family do not make a practice of sinning, for God's Son holds them securely, and the evil one cannot get his hands on them.  We know that we are children of God and that the world around us is under the power and control of the evil one.  And we know that the Son of God has come, and he has given us understanding so that we can know the true God. And now we are in God because we are in his Son, Jesus Christ. He is the only true God, and he is eternal life. 

Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God's place in your hearts. (Verses 18-21)

The practice of sinning is left behind.  Through Christ, this is possible.  Believe in Jesus and this all will be yours.

The Spirit of the living God will lead us from all temptations – including those idols that take up so much of our energy and time.

Enough mumbling for now…

Peace Out