I Believe In God

I'm certain you've heard the phrase, "I believe in God . . ." It's followed by a quote, perhaps scripture that sounds exactly as though it applies to the topic - but we know it is out of context.  I've often written that we need to give all the counsel of God, and I give the scripture reference.

Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. (Acts 20:26-27 KJV)

That’s the most important thing about Bible reading – it is not a buffet where we go to pick a verse that supports our point of view. It is more than a “How To” book, for it is also a “How NOT to” set of instructions. It most certainly is not a DIY book. It contains God’s counsel to men, and it tells us so:

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (2 Timothy 3:16 KJV)

It also tells us why:

That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (2 Timothy 3:17 KJV)

Back to the lady who stated she believes in God – and chose a Bible verse to chide another – and also stated that “all paths lead to God.” That is absolutely buffet picking Bible verses, which tells us:

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. (John 14:6-7 KJV)

Would this verse be ignored? How about:

Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. (Matthew 7:13-14 KJV)

These are included in the full counsel of God, specifically telling us that not all paths lead to Him. Some lead to destruction.  Please, take time to read surrounding verses, study as the Bereans to see if this is so:

These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. (Acts 17:11 KJV)

Knowing there is a god is far different from knowing God.

Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. (James 2:19 KJV)

It is not difficult to make His acquaintance:

But if from thence thou shalt seek the LORD thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul. (Deuteronomy 4:29 KJV)

It is not as easy as it reads, but it is worth the effort:

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (Hebrews 11:6 KJV)

The greatest reward is the personal relationship with God who loves us enough to provide the gift of eternal life. Take time not only to read verses here but to read them in context. Study them seeking to know God and His will in our lives. Know the God we believe in.