“Either Scripture will be the lens through which you view the world, or the world will be the lens through which you view Scripture. Ultimately one or the other will be your authority.” Dustin Benge
This past Saturday, I was a guest at a wedding. I pulled out my phone to take a picture of the beautiful bride and groom and a message popped up on my phone screen which said, “For a clearer picture, a clean lens is recommended.” I just shrugged it off and went ahead and snapped a quick picture. Later, during the reception, I took the time to simply wipe the lens off before I took another picture. You know what? My phone was right! Taking a picture with a clean lens makes all the difference.
How many times during our lives have we needed to clean off the lens before we made a decision? There have been many times that I have decided to do something because it was what I felt was right. I made the snap decision before consulting what the Scripture had to say on the matter. I allowed the world to guide my decision instead of the One that should have authority over my life.
If we continue to let the world help us make the decisions that will shape our life, how we view God’s word begins to become warped. The lens is dirty, and we cannot see the clear picture. The world tells us to do what makes us happy. If we want to do something, go ahead and do it, regardless of what God may say about the situation. Of course, if you use the world has your authority, you start to leave out Scripture that doesn’t fit your lifestyle. You start to tell yourself that God would want you to be happy, so go ahead and do what you feel is right. This is a dangerous situation in which to find yourself. In the Gospel of Matthew, the Scripture gives us a picture of what will happen to those who choose to not use the Scripture as their authority. “Not everyone who says to Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many miracles in Your name? And then, I will declare to them, I never knew you; depart from me, you who practice lawlessness!” Matthew 7:21-23
Making scripture your authority instead of the world is of utmost importance as we journey through this world. There is not a situation in our lives for which the Bible doesn’t have an answer. No matter what may happen, no matter what problem may arise, no matter how much guidance you need, let the Scriptures be your authority. When we stop trying to do things our way and allow ourselves to do it God’s way, things in our lives begin to fall into place. That doesn’t mean that we won’t face trials and troubles, but it does mean that we will know which direction to take our lives. God truly wants what is best for us.
So, how is your vision? What lens are you using to look at the world? Are you using the Scripture to help guide you in this world or are you using the world to guide your steps?
This week’s recipe is Mediterranean Chicken Bowls. It is quick, simple, and most importantly, delicious. If your family prefers beef or pork, feel free to swap a steak or a pork chop for the chicken in this recipe. If you would prefer a vegetarian option, top this delicious Mediterranean bowl with a portabella mushroom. I hope you enjoy!
“The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes; the fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the Lord are true, and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.” Psalm 19:7-11
December 20, 2024
