“BUILDING PERMIT”
(Psalms 126:1-6; 128:1-6; 129:1-8)
“Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.” – Psalm 126:1
No matter whether you are constructing a skyscraper, building a new house, or simply doing remodeling in an existing house, you will find it is necessary to acquire a building permit to begin the work. And, the building permit is not simply a token paper allowing you to begin. There are specific guidelines that must be adhered to in order to assure the structural integrity of the work, and the safety of everything in the project.
It’s not only important to have a building permit for physical buildings, but it is even more important to have a building permit for your life! If you don’t have one, then you will be building your life in vain!
The building permit you need as you construct your life is the Word of God! Study the scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life! (John 5:39) Hide God’s Word in your heart so that you don’t sin against Him! (Psalm 119:11) To be His disciple, you must deny your own desires, and “take up your cross each day” and follow Christ! (Luke 9:23)
Unless you are allowing the Lord to be the “watchman” over your life, you are living in vain.
Simple Truth:
He who the Son sets free is free indeed. (John 8:36) So, you are free to choose to follow the Lord and the principles found in His Word.
Reflections & Application:
- Years ago, Frank Sinatra sang a popular song, proclaiming that he did it “My Way.” Doing life “your way” will bring nothing but heartache. You need to do it HIS way!
- We are called to “crucify the flesh with its passions and desires” (Galatians 5:24) if we belong to Christ.
- Make an “on purpose” choice to follow the leading of the Spirit and the guidelines of God’s Word today!
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I give myself again to You. I am Yours, Lord – everything I am and all I do. Use me today for Your glory. Let my words and my actions speak of the change You have made in my life. I ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.
About our Author
Tim Satryan has been in full time ministry since 1980. He has served five churches in four states. He has also served as the District Youth and Music Director for the PennDel Ministry Network of the Assemblies of God, was the Presbyter for the state of Delaware for over a decade, and for a number of years traveled with the AG Church Multiplication Network, teaching church planting and church revitalization.
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