2nd Chronicles 16:9. “For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.”
GOOD START… BAD END. His trust in God to deliver him served him well in days gone by. When he recognized his need and prayed, God heard his earnest cry. But something has happened; now it seems he thinks he did it on his own. So, God was left out or forgotten, and God left him all alone.
When we look back to times when we were wanting to be saved,
The Holy Spirit in convicting power reminded us that Christ gave His life as a ransom for us and our hearts were deeply moved – And we trusted Him unreservedly filling us with love and gratitude.
It seems that now as years have passed some have forgotten how much it cost The God of heaven to redeem us, and the awfulness of being lost. So instead of remembering Him and showing His death, pleasure is more important. And the first place God had at the beginning, is sent down to the baggage compartment.
There was a time when every decision was only made after seeking God’s will. And it was a matter of chief concern that the treasury of God was full. But then time passes and we’ve had more experiences that make us adept – And we think we can do things all on our own and God’s portion for self have kept.
At the first of our life with God it was our joy to seek souls to win. And we were thrilled when a soul was saved – rejoicing with the angels in heaven. But now we are busy trying to set aside enough funds to carry us through old age – Our joy comes from a rising stock market rather than in a soul God saved.
There were times in the past when it made no difference if there were many or few. The praise of only a few voices with thanksgiving gave voice to our words that was true. It is possibly true now we think something is wrong if we don’t draw a big crowd, And settle back in a comfortable pew and listen to music that is loud.
By God’s grace, I want to be as fresh in my old age as I was when I was young. By His help may I always have a prayer of gratitude and a spiritual song to be sung. May I not make a mess of this journey of life as I’m getting in sight of the goal. May the joy of my youth keep me fresh in mind; may I not forsake the Lord when I’m old.
“O God of all grace, I have learned a lesson here this morning. It is possible to be fruitful in youth and a failure in old age. O Lord God, keep me from being a stagnant pool that has no fresh water running through it. Keep me from the smell of money and success. Keep me with the freshness and joy of youth and the wisdom and compassion of old age. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”