by Pastor Rob Patterson pastorob@gmail.com

"Don't put yo' faith in yo' good looks;

you can lose yo' good looks!"

Years ago, a 'street preacher' had grabbed my attention with those words. Not that I had been particularly faithful toward my good looks but the old man had just made a good point. I had heard preachers on the street in years past but they had seemed sleep-deprived and manic. This old man's rhythm was engaging so I stopped to listen:

"Don't put yo' faith in yo' car; you can lose yo' car!"

I noticed that he was connecting with other passersby--even if just for a moment:

"Don't put yo' faith in yo' job;

you can lose yo' job!

"Don't put yo' faith in yo' relationships;

you can lose yo' relationships!"

Put yo' faith in Jesus!"

That old preacher's memorable message spurs me on to ask you today, dear reader, "Have you accepted Jesus as your Lord?"

Sometimes circumstances allow me the opportunity to present a balanced presentation of the scriptures to an individual who is already seeking to know Truth or to experience Peace. In friendly settings, it is a privilege to freely open the Bible and share passages which point out that 1) all people have sinned, 2) the wages of sin is death, and 3) the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus.

I have come to believe that certain encounters with individuals are sometimes 'divine appointments'. Whenever I am aware of such opportunity, I am compelled to share this fact from the Bible:

"Everyone who calls on the Name of the Lord will be saved."

Right then and there, I like to ask people if they want to be saved from death and eternal separation from God. For those who do, I try to steer them straight to Jesus for the rest of their lives. Some people only get enough 'religion' to make their lives miserable. Accept no substitutes! Don't allow anything to keep you from the joy of a saving relationship with the Lord Jesus.

Being saved goes beyond the hope of heaven after this life. Eternal Life is also for here-and-now. Just as the divine appointment may lead to a sinsick soul getting saved, there will surely be hindrances to that soul's spiritual growth.

The gentle shepherd tends His flock with these words:

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."

Maybe it won't be the devil himself, but one of his small-time minions who attempt to steal, kill, or destroy your ability to enjoy God's blessings. The Thief may need no outside help to work his agenda. An unconfessed sin simmering on the back burner of your mind will slowly and insidiously steal your joy.

Here's the key: Love God. A loving relationship with the Lord Jesus will lead to fullness of joy. Love God and share His love with your neighbor. Love Him with all your heart, soul, and strength.

Don't put yo' faith in anything or anyone else!