No Buts About It

…if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
2nd Chronicles 7:14

How many times has someone called you looking for an answer and when you provide the answer, they reply, “I know, but…”? 

I know, but it’s too hard. 

I know, but I don’t wanna…

I know, but I’m too tired. 

I know, but so-and-so is [or isn’t] doing__________. 

OR have you ever actually heard the Truth of the matter? I know, but I’d rather whine and complain or make excuses than actually make the effort to or for change - especially if the change has to do with changing ME.

Have you ever purchased a book or the “Latest-Greatest-New-and-Improved” something or other system in an attempt to fix an issue, get ahead, make money, or lose weight? How many of those times did we make the purchase and never utilize the purchase? We don’t know whether or not it works based on our own personal experience because we haven’t tried it. It hasn’t been put to the test. We may very well have purchased the answer to whatever challenge we’re facing, but it’s not going to help if it’s still in the box or sitting on the bookshelf. No buts about it...

Here's something to think about - It’s the same with the Word of God. In it are the answers to every situation in our lives, but if we don’t read it or USE it, we'll never know the answers."Yeah, I know, but..."

When I get, "I know, but..." My question to those who profess Christianity is, “Have you prayed about the situation?” No ifs, ands or buts. The Bible instructs us in 1st Timothy 2:1-4 NLT, I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. "Yeah, I know, but..."

But nothing… No, we’re not called to issue judgment and sentencing; but we are supposed to be fruit inspectors (Matthew 7:20). Prayer is the most effective action to change! It keeps us in the proper perspective and attitude (God is our Creator, our Lord and Master, the Author and Finisher of our faith). Prayer acknowledges His Lordship over us. 

Pray until something happens. Move the but…

Prayer:

Father,
           Thank You for loving us enough to provide answers to every situation we face. Such love and provision are overwhelming. Reveal Your Truths and Master Plan to us as we delve into Your Word. Give us the strength and courage to act in righteousness for those situations that burden our souls. May You find us faithful in prayer and in service to You. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen