Rev. Ray and Pat Amos
John 10:10
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
“Open this door, NOW!” It was late at night when the man stood at the door ranting and raving to get inside. I knew that he had the authority to enter, in fact, I guess you would call him my boss; but I wasn’t about to open the door.
All I asked was to see some identification even though there was no doubt who he was. “You know who I am, and when I get in, I am going to (words that I cannot put in a devotional).” He finally showed me his ID, and I opened the door with dread. He came in, walked right by me, and grunted something. I was just thankful that the Drill Sergeant was in a good mood.
We learn many lessons in life, no experience needs to be wasted. In Basic Training you were expected to make sure who you were letting in the barracks while doing guard duty; and you were tested at unexpected times.
Shouldn’t we as Christians be as vigilant about who and what we allow to come into our lives. There are many things that may seem so innocent and manageable but they are wolves in sheep clothing. Jesus said, “There is a way that seems right to a person, but it ends in destruction.
Today’s verse gives us three warning flags to watch for before opening the door of our heart to something trying to get in. 1- Will it steal the joy, peace, and contentment that we have found in Christ? 2- Will it kill relationships with the people we love? 3- Will it destroy our life, family, job, and the good blessings that we have come to know? Then do not let the thief in.
There is one more thing to look for, “Has the one outside our door come to bring us a life that is good, decent, meaningful and eternal? Then open the door because Jesus is knocking.
“Guard your heart, guard your heart
Don’t trade it for treasure, don’t give it away
Guard your heart, guard your heart
As a payment for pleasure, it’s a high price to pay.”
Grace and Peace, Rev Ray
