Sure

SURE

I had an interesting conversation with our oldest grandson. I asked several questions and made some comments, his answer was the same, “sure.” Just how sure was he? He was not and neither was I. When I asked him what the word “sure” meant, he said, “Write a Blog.”

Yes, it is a word we use frivolously. In our conversations when there is not much at stake, it may be acceptable to say, “sure” when we actually mean yes. However, when things are life threatening or our salvation is on the line then we are not so “sure” are we? I have always felt uneasy when Christians use the word for being “sure” about their salvation. I can be certain about what I believe, but I am not so positive what God shall do. Particularly, if I do not live up to what God expects of me. In the eyes of others, I can leave the impression that I am sure, but in my heart I know there is much to be desired. Better man than I said, “Work out your salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12).

In this life, we all are in the race toward heaven or even a better life on earth. No one can race in our place or at our pace. No one can take for granted that we have strength enough to cross the finished line. It is when we are stressed out in the race that the grace of Christ comes in, but not when we use it for our advantage and convenience (Philippians 3:12-21). We run by our own merits and at the finished gate Christ will add His credentials to ours. Then we shall be “sure” when we hear Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21).

While we still have a chance to enter the race or while we are still running, let us not become negligent or weary, but lets put on the “armor of God.” The armor is not just spiritual, but also temporal. It has to do with standing up and living for what is right and not let our feet take us into forbidden territory. In the process we pray, for prayer is not just a line to God, but also a self-analysis as to where we are in our journey through life (Ephesians 6:10-20). We are not in the process of being “sure” but we are in the process of getting ready. We shall not reach our destination on empty like the “Foolish Virgins” (Matthew 25:1-13). I know this: I am sure that I am not so sure!