Limitations!

We can see them just about anywhere we go; signs that indicate some kind of limitation. Some of them may be more significant than others, but through the acceptance or rejection of some our very safety may be at stake. “House Guests Only!” “Entrance Only!” “Exit Only!” “One Way Only!” “Right Turn Only!”

Funk & Wagnalls’ Dictionary defines “ONLY” as an expression of limitation in the following words: “Solely; merely; exclusively; limiting a statement to a single defined person, thing, or number.”

We’re used to those designations of limitations in this life. Why, then, do some struggle so much with accepting such being associated with approaching God and living a spiritual life? When reading the Bible, some appear to dislike the “ONLY” passages or those which seem to bring limitations to life. We can’t have all things just any way we want them!
Just like many of the “ONLY” signs we see around us today, whatever limitations the Scriptures address are for properly directing our lives in a safe manner. Even without the use of the word “ONLY” there are passages which still convey such an implication to be accepted. When the Scriptures state one thing in a manner that excludes or rules out all else, such limitations from God ought to be respected because they are based upon His Wisdom and Will to provide blessing to our lives.

Note an important limitation Jesus addressed while talking to Thomas.
“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. NO ONE COMES TO THE FATHER EXCEPT THROUGH ME.” ( John 14:6 ESV)

“No one”, said Jesus. What is to not understand there? “Except through Me”, Jesus also declared. Again, what part of that limitation is not clear? Jesus is the ONLY ACCESS to the Father. No man has been declared by God to be such. For this reference to be made to Jesus rules out any others. He must be acknowledged for Who He is and a life with Him must be entered into in order to have access to the Father.

Let us persist in acknowledging Jesus as the “One Way” as we continually make a “Right Turn” toward Him and His Will. May we strive to help others understand the importance of this truth as well. There is an eternity that depends upon it.

Have a great day COMING TO THE FATHER THROUGH THE SON!
Carl

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