What can be done for Phil?
I may have been a bit too harsh on “Phil” in my blog last Tuesday. True, Phil is hell-destined if he continues along his works-based ‘religionized” version of Christianity. But he has not reached the end of that road yet, and there are off ramps all along the way.
Theres a wonderful promise for Phil found in the Old Testament record of King David’s reign.
“All of us must die eventually. Our lives are like water spilled out on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again. But God does not just sweep life away; instead, he devises ways to bring us back when we have been separated from him.” (2 Sam. 14:13-15)
It was like this for the prodigal who strayed away from his father, loving more the allures of the world. But a way back was always open to him, and when he took it he found his father still waiting, arms open. (See Luke 15:11-20).
Turning back is what the Lord longs for every wayward one to do. In fact, it is what he urged the church of Ephesus to do: “Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first.” (Rev. 2:5). Repent means to turn around. You were going one way, then you realize it is the wrong way, you stop, and you turn a full 180° round, and go the opposite way… the way back to our loving Father God.
Do the things you used to do, He pleads. There’s and old song sung by Neil Diamond and Barbara Striesand entitled “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers Any More.” In it, a couple in a strained, love-lost marriage sing their sorrows to each other. The refrain “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers Any More” embodies the problem.
When was the last time you brought the Lord some flowers, a sweet-smelling aroma of worship, obedience, sacrifice or ministry? It’s not too late! The flower shop is still open and the Father is still waiting, arms open… for you.
Jesus warned us this time would come: “Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold.” But there is hope. Turn around. Lost love can be restored. “…the one who endures to the end will be saved” (Matt. 24:13).
There is hope for Phil and for all who have strayed.
Press on…
Got a question? Use the Contact page and send It to me. We’ll search the Word for God’s answer.
thebrokenrunner 
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