Church Family,
So my wife called and let me know she was coming home for dinner. When she came in later than I expected, she explained that one of the main roads she drives home on every day was closed and she had to find an alternative route. If that has happened to you, you know that’s frustrating.
Last week my wife and I rode our bicycles to our favorite Mexican restaurant and as we pulled into the parking lot, it was empty. We made our way to the door and it was locked and we could not go in. We realized it was Monday and they’re not open on Monday. It was frustrating to arrive at the door we wished was open, but it was closed.
Have you ever had to find an alternative route? Have you ever been denied access?
I have two more questions for you: Should an alternative route ever be taken? Should access ever be denied?
OK, another question. Who gets access to your heart?
Hopefully, you know that God wants to be in your life. He wants to guide and direct us through his Holy Spirit within us. Jesus went to the cross that we might gain that privilege. So who gets access to your heart?
Is there information that should come to a dead end? Is there information that should come to a closed door?
I must confess that too often when I sit down in front of a TV or pick up my phone to gain access to information, I don’t post a sign that says you must find an alternative route, or this door is closed. Even though, I am convinced that most of what Hollywood has to offer, and what many of the most popular Influencers put in front of me does not have my best interest in mind. In fact often it is the exact opposite of what God would want me to consume. It certainly does not help me draw close to my Savior. It can even drive me away.
A challenge for me, that I invite you to join me in, is to frustrate the devil. If he has a commonly used path into your heart, turn him around, frustrated in the other direction. If he finds an open door to your heart, close it. Lock it. Send him away frustrated.
I believe God loves me, knows me, and knows what is best for me. I always do well to seek first his kingdom and his righteousness everywhere I go. I need to make time and give access intentionally to Him. And I need to deny access to the enemy who wants to kill steal and destroy my friendship with God.
So the next time that you or I come to a dead end or a locked door, let it be a reminder to us to filter who has access to our heart.
Steve