Mike’s Musings ….

Make It Contagious!

   Since the pandemic, contagions, the very notion of “contagions” have concerned many people. Though proven ineffective, some continue to wear masks, insist on the six-foot spacing, and thoroughly sterilize every item touched by someone other than themselves if found in a public setting. We don’t blame these people but understand their phobia of contracting a dreadful and sometimes deadly illness. Frankly, having been hospitalized twice with COVID-19, I have an appreciation for such protective measures! However, I do NOT consider COVID to be the deadliest or even the most serious of contagions. I consider SIN to be the worst of all, and yet mankind still refuses the ONLY cure!

   Make note that the inspired apostle Paul declared sin as a contagion. “Be not deceived: evil communication (our life’s conduct) corrupts good manners (behavior.)” 1 Corinthians 15:33 Notice the placement of this declaration is amid two subjects: 1) the definition of the gospel of Christ (verses 1 – 4) and its importance toward the salvation of our souls, and 2) the discussion of the resurrection of the dead. Therefore, Paul shows that our life’s conduct must be in obedience to the gospel of Christ and throughout our lives after obeying the gospel, or we cannot participate in the reception of life eternal with the Father. He concludes with this admonition: “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” (verse 58). Knowing that sin is a contagion to all souls, Paul warns us to avoid contact with it. (See also Romans 12:9; 1 Thessalonians 5:22; Ephesians 5:11; et al).

There is but one cure for sin: OBEDIENCE TO GOD AND HIS WORD!

   The word of God is MORE contagious than sin! Its effect upon those is sin is so strong that it penetrates even the mind of mankind (Hebrews 4:12 -13). But this needed contagion is only effective if those of us who have hidden God’s word in our hearts that we would sin not against God (Psalm 119:11) continue in the faith that comes from hearing God’s word (Romans 10:17) and diligently serve Him in all we say and do (Colossians 3:17) with unerring allegiance. Those of the world will see our good works and glorify God (Matthew 5:16). Some may think us strange that we no longer engage with them in sin (1 Peter 4:3-4), but they will come to respect us for our loyalty to Christ and Him crucified. (Romans 16:19).

   I muse on the type of contagion most need and plead with those of us with this eternal life-giving message to share with all with whom we come in contact! The world needs God and His word!