Consider Thyself (conclusion)

Beloved, in conclusion of our theme, “Consider Thyself” - it is not surprising that “the sin of the young men (Eli’s sons, Hophni and Phinehas, who were supposed to live as righteous priests) was (so) very great before the Lord...(that) men abhorred (were disgusted by) the offering of the Lord” (I Samuel 2:17). Because of the type of life these boys lived, the children of Israel came to despise the very plan of God for their atonement (their reconciliation to God). As a result, they turned from His plan and desired their own plan for salvation. Today, we Christians need to “consider” that others can come to resent God because of the way we represent Him in our lives. In the time of Eli, the Law dictated that only death could remove these priests from their office. This is why God intervened and put a stop to these hypocritical priests and the effect that they were having on his children. Hence, when Eli was 98 years old, he received word of Israel’s battle against the Philistines, in which both his sons were slain, and the ark of God was taken (see I Samuel 4:14-18). Beloved, we must “consider ourselves” when we represent God, otherwise we will be punished for misleading others. First, we will suffer personal loss, and second, if we do not repent, we will eventually lose our very lives. Remember, when Eli heard that the ark of God had been stolen, he “fell off from the seat backward...and his neck (broke), and he died” (I Samuel 4:18).

Precious Ones, I’m so glad that God is merciful to us today, and that He has ended the Aaronic order of the priesthood through the coming of Jesus Christ as our High Priest. Now, Beloved, we have become the under-priests. We are a “chosen generation, a royal priesthood...(to) show forth the praises of him who hath called (us) out of darkness into his marvelous light” (I Peter 2:9).

Chosen Ones, knowing this, let us reverence our calling with fear. If we do not “consider ourselves” and if we do not continually praise God for giving us the mercy and strength to resist temptation, then we can be moved! When other Christians do not properly conduct themselves, this does not give us a reason or excuse to turn from God’s plan. When you are constantly mindful of the grace and mercy God has shown you, “consider yourself” to work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). Let God’s way continue to be observed by all who are honest in heart. “Consider thyself” to be a loyal servant of Jesus Christ!

Next week, I will write from a new theme. I pray that this theme was a blessing to you.

I love you all SO very much!
In His Love,

Pastor William L. McCoy