Guarding Our Hearts

This past Sunday, I mentioned Judas Iscariot in my sermon, and I have been thinking about him for three days now. Generally when we think of Judas, we think of the terrible traitor, but as I have thought on this, I realize that Jesus must have seen some qualities in Judas that he considered worthy. If he had not, I don't think he would have ever selected Judas to be a disciple. For the biggest part of three years he shared in the life and ministry of Christ. However, at a time when he should have been most strong, he showed forth his weakness. He gave in to the temptation of money and as a result he betrayed his friend and Lord. It's amazing that he lived so close to the only true treasure; the love of Jesus Christ, yet he threw it all away because of his weakness.

The harsh reality is that everyone sins. Some may not want to admit it, but this is the sad truth. A real truth is that often we are weak when we want so desperately to be strong. It is vital that we hold on the the love of God in these times when we are tempted most. The Lord offers us His strength when our own strength is just not enough. The reality is that all we need to do is pray for this strength, and it will be given to us. Sadly, we often are negligent to this type of prayer until after we have fallen to that temptation. When we fall prey to sin, and we allow it to control us, we join with Judas in betraying the truth of Christ. When we call on God to help us in our weakness, then we have found true wisdom and strength. We need to learn to deal honestly with God. If we do, he will show us with treasure that cannot be taken from us, while giving honor to the glory of Christ, Jesus.

I don't know about anyone else, but I pray that I might make the Lord proud of me, as I try to please Him by my actions and praise him with my lips.