What's Being Suppressed?

One of the things humanity has developed an expertise toward is getting self into trouble. Thinking we are so smart that we can come up with life's needed solutions without consulting the wisdom of God has not made this world a better place! Such a focus has fed -- at least in this country -- a very self-centered approach to many facets of life.

In Paul's letter to the church at Rome, he stated. . .
"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all UNGODLINESS and UNRIGHTEOUSNESS of men, who BY THEIR UNRIGHTEOUSNESS SUPPRESS THE TRUTH." ( Romans 1:18 ESV)

Paul went on to note how God has revealed Himself -- His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature -- in a clear enough manner through what He has made, that man is without excuse! ( Romans 1:19-20) That means "I didn't know" is not going to work. The design and order of all creation points to the power and intelligence of God. However, Paul noted these of whom he had in mind as "claiming to be wise, they became fools." ( Romans 1:22) They did not recognize and acknowledge God as He truly is, but rather reduced Him to a level of man and beast. ( Romans 1:23) Praise God He is God and we are not!

In relying on their own wisdom and own direction these of whom Paul wrote moved further and further into condemnation. Ultimately this leads to a very dangerous position. Though even in the midst of God's warnings He always holds out a glimmer of hope -- desiring an appropriate response from mankind -- there reaches a point when God turns His back (just scan some of Israel's history in the Old Testament) and lets people go the way they seem bent on going. That can be the most dangerous point for our life to be.

Paul expressed this action of God in the words "God gave them up". ( Romans 1:24, 26, 28). Yes, it is expressed three times which means we dare not miss the point! What is it that such deserve? Death! ( Romans 1:32) Not only had this become their practice of life, it was what they applauded (gave their approval of) in others. ( Romans 1:32) All of this begins when it is the truth that begins to be suppressed!

It is not the truth that is to be suppressed, but rather OUR OWN WISDOM and OUR OWN DESIRES! That's where we get into trouble. That is what traps us. That is what enslaves us. It is the TRUTH that SETS US FREE! ( John 8:32) Praise God for providing HIS TRUTH that leads to the godliness and righteousness He desires and provides.

Have a great day LETTING TRUTH REIGN IN OUR LIFE!
Carl

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