Read Proverbs 14:13-24

This morning I want to share some thoughts from Proverbs 14:14, "The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself."  This verse gives us an opportunity for us to apply our thoughts to the condition of backsliding.  We don't hear the term much anymore, but it is appropriate to mention.  The Bible teaches that a person who has received Christ as his Savior has eternal life.  1 John 5:13 lays the groundwork in teaching that we can know that we have eternal life.  I am thankful for that knowledge, for it brings me comfort in knowing that I am going to heaven when I die.  However, it is possible for a believer to lose ground that he once occupied. It is also possible for that person to walk a dangerous path known as backsliding.  In reference to Israel, Hosea 11:7 states, "And my people are bent to backsliding from me: though they called them to the most High, none at all would exalt him."

As we all know, if we are not careful, the tendency in life is to go in the wrong direction spiritually. It doesn't take effort to fall away from God, but it takes much effort to remain close to God. Staying close to the Lord has to be an everyday priority in our lives, or, before you know it, you're not walking as you should. We must determine that time spent with the Lord is the most important time of the day. Everything else is dependent upon my remaining close to the Lord.  

The word translated as backslider also has the sense of being rebellious, or insolent. Rebels and backsliders are full of themselves, doing their own thing, and are certainly not concerned about walking in step with the Lord.  The heart that is cold and indifferent is one that is backsliding.  

In contrast to the backslider, a good man shall be satisfied from himself.  Doing right and good before God is the priority of the good man.  He isn't focused upon himself and his own desires, rather he is surrendered to the will of God, and intent on doing God's will.   

Before we can do what is right, we must repent of what is wrong. We must stop doing the wrong before we can begin doing what is right. Examine your life and see what is wrong, repent of it, then pick up that which is right and cling to it. Examine your life daily because we are a people bent on backsliding!

We can really get messed up if we aren't careful.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  How might your thoughts indicate if you are living in a backslidden condition?

2.  Is it possible for a person to lose salvation?  Explain your answer.

3.  Describe what it means to be backslidden based upon today’s devotion.

4.  What does the phrase “good man” mean in Proverbs 14:14?

5.  How would you describe your current spiritual condition?