The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Proverbs 1:7
Recently I visited a church. I walked in, sat in the back, and listened as the minister plead with the congregation about a turnaround that is needed in our nation. I have not one argument to pose with anything he said. Our airways are filled with questions, discussions, and dialogs. From XM, TV, radio, blogs, and Instagram, discussions of what has happened to our world are everywhere.
Is the equation that hard? Are the problems we face that complicated? From the courthouse to schoolhouse to our house, look at the changes that have happened over the years. It used to be the Ten Commandments hung in the hall of the courthouse. The name of Jesus was respected in the schoolhouse. Jesus was exalted in the church house, and the Word of God was lived in our house. There was respect for local politicians, pastors, business owners, and bosses. Jobs were appreciated, and friendship/relationships were treasured.
Country music great George Jones sang this about a lady. The same applies concerning Jesus.
“Imagine a world where no music was playing
And think of a church with nobody praying
Have you ever looked up at a sky with no blue Then you’ve seen a picture of me without you
Have you walked in a garden where nothing was growing
Or stood by a river where nothing was flowing
If you’ve seen a red rose unkissed by the dew Then you’ve seen a picture of me without you
Can you picture Heaven with no angels singing
Or a quiet Sunday morning with no church bells ringing
If you’ve watched as the heart of a child breaks in two Then you’ve seen a picture of me without you”
Do you get the picture? This is what happens when we lose the fear of the Lord. Knowledge, wisdom, and understanding fade. Iniquity and lawlessness take over where prayer, power, praise, and unity dwelt.
Our prayer for you this week: May we come to the realization of the need for the name of Jesus in our lives.
