FROM THE KEYBOARD

Integrity threatens those who lack it. And you’ll know that’s the case when a person lies in order to save face. "Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who deal truthfully are His delight" (Proverbs 12:22).

It is on our most holy faith that the "building" of our lives must be based. On Christ the solid rock we stand, for all other ground is sinking sand. "But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith..." (Jude 20).

Tragically, it is possible to be a "theological Christian" and yet remain a "practical pagan." This is what it means to have a form of godliness but denying its power. "For men will be lovers of themselves...having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!" (2 Timothy 3:2, 5).

Our faith in Christ needs to be greater than our fear of man. It doesn't matter what man thinks. What matters is what God said. "In the fear of the LORD there is strong confidence, and His children will have a place of refuge" (Proverbs 14:26).

When we complain about our circumstance, we are essentially complaining against God's providence. He knows what we need and our greatest need is to know this. "Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world" (Philippians 2:14-15).

We are scripturally forewarned so as to be spiritually forearmed. In other words, the Word of God gives us the ammo for preparation and the armor for protection. Take it in and put it on! "You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from...