LUKE 23:24 (NKJV)
And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Which road are you on? Are you on Heaven’s roadway? Or are you sliding down a slippery highway straight to Hell?
A random survey about religion revealed many different points of view, and beliefs. The answers varied across the board. Many believed in a higher power, some believed but then something happened, and they turned from God. However, the majority didn’t believe at all. When asked further details about why they weren’t interested in hearing about religion, or God, it was astonishing that most of them said, “because all these preachers do is talk about sinners and going to Hell.”
Unfortunately, that is correct. There are a lot of churches that do hold their congregation’s hostage with the paralyzing fear of going to hell. A lot of them preach strictly about Hell, fire and brimstone. Of course, there is a Hell. We are told and forewarned of that in the Bible. And we do realize we have to repent and turn from sin; at which time we will be forgiven.
But bear in mind that we have an amazingly patient and merciful Father. So those who minister strictly on fear to their congregations, they are falling short, and sadly not being forthright, well at least not all the way. There is a Hell. But thank the LORD above, there is a HEAVEN too! God is loving and kind and wants us with Him.
Exodus 34:5 states, “the LORD, the LORD GOD, merciful and gracious, longsuffering and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgressions and sin…”
It states it right there! He is merciful and gracious, patient and good! He forgives. That should be preached along when trying to save sinners. Keep in mind that we are ALL sinners. Christ died for US. We have been forgiven.
Sinners that don’t repent, or have the heart to change their way, WILL be held accountable. Of course, if they should continue in their wicked ways, there will be serious consequences.
Again, keep it in your heart, God is merciful. He forgives. He gives oodles of chances. He holds out His arms and rejoices when we love and surrender to Him. He forgives.
The LORD performed awesome miracles. When His children in the Bible repented and had a change of heart…God was quick to show compassion and impart mercy. He forgave them of their sins.
The LORD is not looking to “zap” His children into Hell. He doesn’t take great pleasure in punishing us. He wants us to LIVE with Him forever! He sent Christ in order that those who believe on Him, shall find life everlasting and living waters shall flow endlessly. We never will thirst again!
II Peter 3:9 “The LORD is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to usward, not willing that any should perish, that that all should come to repentance.”
When we act according to the LORD’s will, and purpose, and believe in Him solely, and recognize His power and Omnipotence, and follow His commandments, we can be assured that we will reap the rewards in which we sow and be part of His Kingdom.
There is a place called Hell. And it’s not a very comfortable or good place to wind up. In fact, it’s torture.
However, rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for there is also a spectacular and beautiful peaceful loving place called Heaven.
Yes!
“LORD, may I be mindful and aware of Your promises and the rewards of eternal life, my honor and joy is to serve You and do all according to Your will, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Hebrews 4:16
Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
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