"'You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to human traditions.' And He continued, 'You have a fine way of setting aside the commands of God in order to observe your own traditions!'" -Mark 7:8-9 (NIV)
Society is changing. Expectations, ways of engaging people, and forms of communication and interaction are always evolving from one generation to the next. The addition of ever-changing technology compounds the rate of transformation in our current society. While we could debate the pros and cons of such changes, the fact is that we are living in a time of change and transition. Institutions, including education, government, communication, the family, and the church, feel the pressures of these societal changes.
As we encounter the tide of change in society, we must make some decisions on how to deal with a new set of circumstances. Some parts of our lives and our faith are non-negotiable. God's Word, truth, commands, and expectations are constant, even in the face of overwhelming change. Fortunately, His love, offer of Salvation, and forgiveness is also unchanging!
While we must hold resolutely to God's truth, we may need to let go of some of our other human traditions. There is a place for tradition within society and within the church, but we must be willing to let go of some of our human traditions if we are going to further God's message and build His Kingdom. We may need to step outside the box or break the mold in order to reach those that are not attracted to or moved by traditional worship. With God's steadfast message as the centerpiece and an openness to His will, God will guide and prosper our efforts!.
Celebrate tradition, but also embrace change that can promote the spread of God's unchanging truth and love!
Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for providing me with the traditions that have allowed me to form a relationship with You. Help me to celebrate these traditions, but also allow me to be flexible in letting go of some human traditions in order to focus on Your commands and Your will. Help me to find the ways to share Your glory with others. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.
As we encounter the tide of change in society, we must make some decisions on how to deal with a new set of circumstances. Some parts of our lives and our faith are non-negotiable. God's Word, truth, commands, and expectations are constant, even in the face of overwhelming change. Fortunately, His love, offer of Salvation, and forgiveness is also unchanging!
While we must hold resolutely to God's truth, we may need to let go of some of our other human traditions. There is a place for tradition within society and within the church, but we must be willing to let go of some of our human traditions if we are going to further God's message and build His Kingdom. We may need to step outside the box or break the mold in order to reach those that are not attracted to or moved by traditional worship. With God's steadfast message as the centerpiece and an openness to His will, God will guide and prosper our efforts!.
Celebrate tradition, but also embrace change that can promote the spread of God's unchanging truth and love!
Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for providing me with the traditions that have allowed me to form a relationship with You. Help me to celebrate these traditions, but also allow me to be flexible in letting go of some human traditions in order to focus on Your commands and Your will. Help me to find the ways to share Your glory with others. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.
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