Words to Grow On

February 11, 2008

WICKED . . .  ME?

By

Betty Magill

            If my people, who are called by my name, shall . . . turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven , and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.     II Chronicles 7:14 (NKJV)

After reading this verse, I first thought, “I  haven’t murdered anybody, taken illegal drugs or robbed any banks lately so I guess I’m OK.”  However upon further consideration, neither have most Christians.  So, I began to wonder, “which of my ways are wicked to God?” 

This scripture came to mind:

 “. . . things which are not fitting:  unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness: full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness, they are whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful:” Romans 1:28-31.  (NKJV)

It’s interesting to note that sins like envy, strife, and backbiting are on the same list as murder, & sexual immorality.  So, today:

Instead of comparing myself with others who seem more wicked than I,  I will use God’s standards for my behavior.

Instead of irritation, I will show kindness. 

Instead of contention, I will foster peace.

Instead of thinking of myself, I will think of others.

Instead of my choosing to fulfill my wants and desires, I will choose to fulfill God’s.

Instead of using the world as my yardstick, I will use God’s Son, in whom no sin is found, our Loving Lord, Jesus Christ.