three-dimensional
"In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, Who is coming to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingly power, I charge you to preach the word, to stay with this task whether convenient or inconvenient." —2 Timothy 4:1-2
Before you decide to do anything, you should think of three facts:
- God is present (2 Tm 4:1).
- God is Judge (2 Tm 4:1).
- God is coming (2 Tm 4:1).
Picture God right in front of you. Does His presence influence your actions?
Read Matthew 25. Picture Jesus about to speak to you on Judgment Day. Will your decisions today cause you a problem on that last day?
Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17. Picture Jesus' second coming. Will you rejoice when you see Him face to face, or will you be overcome by fear?
If you daily think of the three facts mentioned in 2 Timothy 4:1, you will probably do God's will and be free, pure, and holy. If you always keep in mind that God is present, is the Judge, and is coming soon, you will probably love God with all your heart and live with Him forever in heaven. Remember the three facts. Live in the three dimensions.
Prayer: Father, may I practice Your presence.
Promise: "I want you to observe that this poor widow contributed more than all the others who donated to the treasury. They gave from their surplus wealth, but she gave from her want, all that she had to live on." —Mk 12:43-44
Praise: The Holy Spirit opened Lena's eyes to the fact that contracepting was hurting her marriage. She repented and remains open to life.
Reference: (For related teaching, order our tape on Developing a Deep Personal Relationship with Jesus on audio AV 52-1 or video V-52.)
Rescript: †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, January 4, 2008
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