(Proverbs 14:14 KJV) The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.
Here we have one of the most frightening words in the Bible: “backslider” (5472). The root meaning is “to move away.” In a sense it is the same idea of repentance except it moves in the opposite direction. Some brothers say that once you are saved this is impossible. It may tell you that in your theology books, but that is not what my Bible says.
Notice that this motion is rooted in the “heart” (3820), not the actions. You can be a backslider long before it becomes obvious to others. Part of the message of Proverbs is that you arrive at this heart position because of decisions you make. Another part of the message is that you can decide to make the right choices. It starts by studying and listening to what God has to say.
So? I don’t care how old you are, it is still early in your life. If you have not gone to bed yet, the day is not over. How are your decisions looking?
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2 comments:
I'm one of those "once saved, always saved" folks, so most folks are in opposition to my way of thinking. However, we CAN move away form God's will, though we will usually suffer earthly consequences and loss of heavenly rewards. I once attended a siminar where the pastor used verse after verse to prove (in my mind, at least) that God will take our life before He lets the devil have us back. Of course, some are only pretenders to begin with, though only the Lord knows for sure which ones.
I think the term "backslider" has failed to be taken as seriously as it should be, because Christians have been so quick to pin it on other Christians who think differently than they do.
One of the odd things my kids discovered a few years ago when they were out visiting churches was that the churches who seemed to believe in "once saved, always saved" were the ones who seemed more concerned about living their faith.
Ultimately it comes down to trusting Jesus for your salvation. Since you do, I can call you brother.
Grace and peace.
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