1 Chronicles 28:8, "...Keep and seek for all the commandments of the LORD your God: that ye may possess this good land, and leave it for an inheritance for your children after you for ever."

This verse spoke to my heart today in two ways.  First, I was struck by the fact Solomon is being charged to both keep and seek for all the commandments of the LORD.  To keep God's commandments is an obviou obligation for every believer, but to seek them is another matter.  I understand Solomon didn't possess a complete canon of Scripture as we do today, but still the issue is the heart that seeks God's commandments.  I am reminded of the words of Paul to Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:15, "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."  The words of the Psalmist in Psalm 119:10, "With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments."  Are you seeking to know the Lord in a greater and fuller way?

The second way this verse spoke to my heart was concerning what we are leaving our children?  The world and our nation is heading in the wrong direction spiritually, socially, and politically.  I think the order of those items is important.  If we follow after God then our world will be improved socially.  Homes will be stronger, communities will be safe havens etc.  Once we have gotten ourselves in order spiritually and socially then our political landscape will change.  We are trying to change our country politically without changing who we are spiritually and socially.  We must first have a spiritual awakening in America, then a social awakening, and finally a political awakening.  This downward spiral will not reverse itself except we change spiritually. As evangelist Will Rice stated, "you may not be able to control the world you will leave your kids; but you can control the kids you leave your world."  Let's work at changing the world, but if we can't accomplish that, let's at least see our children changed for the glory of God.

Have a great day growing spiritually in your walk with the Lord!  This will change you and the world both socially and politically.

Your Friend and HIS,
Pastor Abbott

QUESTIONS TO PONDER

1.  How would you rate the spiritual impact your life has upon others?

2.  Are you serious about keeping God's commandments?  How is this reflected in your life?

3.  Are you seeking to grow in your personal walk with the Lord?  Name three things you are doing to enhance your spiritual growth.

4.  Are you pursuing God with all your heart?  If not, what is keeping you from doing so?