Whatever I Want (?)

The late writer and comic, Lewis Grizzard, said, 'My life improved dramatically when I found a doctor who told me I could smoke, a preacher who says there is no hell, and an accountant who believes that 2 + 2 is what- ever I want it to be."

None of us wants to be told what to do. We cherish and nurture our independence.

The problem is, many have adopted their spirit of violation as a standard to live by. Under the guise of political correctness," they cry for the right to do as they please. Everything is deemed relative; a matter of personal preference (i.e. sexual orientation, carnal gratification, religious affifliation, doctrinal deviation, etc.).

"Preference" has become the "reference point by which decisions are made. Maybe we need to read Jesus' Sermon on the Mount again. Note with interest His words, "You have heard ... but I say" (Matt. 5:22, 2 8, 32, 34, 44).

We are to do what Jesus says. His word is the standard we are to live by and use for...

1. ...the way we feel about and treat others (Matt. 5:21-26). 2. ...the way we think and the thoughts we entertain  (Matt. 5:27-30).

3. ...the way we treat our mate (Matt. 5:32-32).

4. ...the way we respond to our own promises (Matt. 5:33-37).

5. Ahe way we react to those who mistreat us (Matt. 5:43-48).

Now, look at these categories again. They cover everything from social skills to conflict resolution; from psychological restraint to personal integrity; from divorce and remarriage to the importance of marriage. Jesus is the one we turn to for guidance in these and all areas of life. He is the one with "all authority" (Matt. 28:18).

-Edited- -Dan Winkler-