“But you say, ‘Whoever says to his father or mother, “Whatever I have that would help you has been given to God,” he is not to honor his father or mother.’ And by this you have invalidated the word of God for the sake of your tradition” (Matthew 15:5-6).
We use excuses to not do what is right. In our own minds, they may seem plausible, but the Lord has made the rules simple and common to all. Do not think you are clever, for there is nothing new under the sun. Instead, simply follow the commandments and know that we have obligations that need to be fulfilled. If you love the Lord, you will humbly seek to do as He has commanded.
Lord, You know I know how to play games. I have not obeyed Your commandments, and I have justified this with some kind of excuse that those around me agree with. But You are the audience of One whom I must serve. You alone are the One who will judge me at the end of days. Yes, I know I have grace; but teach me to live seeking to obey what You have commanded. Your commandments are not just about my behavior, but about showing me how to truly love.
Lord Jesus, Your love is so great that You laid down Your life so that I could be in this eternal relationship with You. Teach me to be honest with You and myself. Guide me in all goodness so that I do not play games with You or others. Help me grow the fruits of the Holy Spirit which You give so that I may live my life wholly dedicated to the hope You give me by grace. Amen.
