Turn About

God lives and works today. Why do these words bring so little joy to most of our lives? Could it be that our lives have taken paths that aren't in accordance with God's will? Paths that constantly lead us further away from Him? Today's meditation by Basil E. Schlink called Turnabout is a practical help for all those of us who would like to find our way back to God. Have you ever been shaken up by the words in the Bible, teach us to number our days, or it is appointed for men to die once, and after that comes judgment? Have death and eternity ever become a reality for you? It is awaiting us all, as we experienced when two of our friends were instantly killed in a traffic accident.

We were deeply moved and were reminded of Paul's words in 2nd Corinthians 5 10, we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ so that each one may receive good or evil according to what he has done in the body. The grace of Jesus is unfathomable and as deep as the ocean. He lets this grace flow down upon all those whose hearts are humble and contrite, who lie at the foot of the cross weeping over their sins.

Therefore, there's nothing that Jesus longs for so much as to see a real turnabout in our lives. What does this mean in practical terms? We have to turn around and go back the way we came. We have to head in the opposite direction.

For example, if a person is very dominating and often hurts other people with his sharp words, to repent would mean to apologize immediately each time and to ask, if possible, to work in a place where he's the humble and lowly one. God is waiting for us to turn about from every sin in our lives. Of course, we can't become new people through our own efforts.

However, it's important that we show God this little sign of our willingness. We have to say by our actions, I won't stand for this sin in myself any longer. This is the end.

The turnabout may only begin in a very small way. For example, the person who is always late because of his self-will and disobedience should now make a point of leaving for his destination five minutes earlier. God wants to give us grace upon grace.

Let us not lose this grace because we aren't ready to turn about. Jesus' arms are open for everyone who is willing to turn away from sin. To them he is calling.

I will help you. I will complete the work. Behold, I make all things new.

My Savior cheers, followed by praise and rejoicing, love and my gratitude voicing. None can you know, or you will not show, unless they share in your suffering, joining with you in your grieving. You have been listening to a program written by Basilea Schlink of the Little Land of Canaan.

To learn more about how God lives and works today, visit us at our website www.canaan.org. That's K-A-N-A-A-N.org. If you contact us, we would be happy to send you a free inspirational booklet. If you do not have access to the web, please write to God Lives and Works Today, 9849 North 40th Street, Phoenix, Arizona, 85028-4099. God bless you.