Topic: Are our actions justified?
Bible Reading: Genesis 34
Memory Verse: Genesis 34:31
But they replied, “Should he have treated our sister like a prostitute?”
Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen! How are you all doing? How has the day been so far? My morning has been a very relaxed one and I am enjoying it. Our journey through Genesis 34 continues today with a look at the theme, “Justification of actions.” To help us explore this theme, we would be using Genesis 34 verse 31. I am ready! Are you ready? Let us get to it.
In Genesis 34: 31, we see that Dinah’s brothers, Simeon and Levi, tried to justify their actions by implying that it (the killing of the Hivite men) was payment for the horrific thing the Hivite man, Shechem, did to their sister. But is that the case? Can we justify our wrong behavior/ actions because we think that it is the right call? Who even gave us the right to judge what is right and what is wrong?
There are many thoughts that go through our minds when we are offended by someone or something. As humans the first thing we do is to judge the situation/action; then, we judge the person who took the action. If the action does not coincide with our perceptions of "what is good", then we automatically register it as a "bad thing". Once the act has been registered in our minds as a bad one, we then paint the person (behind the action) black.
We do not hesitate to condemn the person and speak bad things about/to the person. By doing this, we are judging the person. As Christians, we are not supposed to judge anyone. In the Bible, we are told not to judge others because if we do, we would be judged the same way. Matthew 7:1-5 tells us this and goes on to say that all those who judge others are hypocrites. Well, yes, they are!
When you judge someone, you are a hypocrite because you (just like the person you judge) have made many mistakes. Who are you to think that someone’s mistake is greater than yours? Your mistakes and other people’s mistakes are all judged as sin. No matter how big or small it is. Sin is sin. It cannot be quantified or qualified. That is why God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to save us from our sins. You do not have the right to retaliate a wrong action with another. God is the only one who have both the right and the power to do so. You don’t!
As children of God, we must forgive others; just as Christ forgave our sins on the cross. It is difficult, yes, but you have been equipped to be able to- the provision of the Holy Spirit. For we are all sinners. Imagine what would have happened if God did not send His Son to dies for us? Would you be enjoying a lot of the blessings and mercies God has showered on you? In the same realm, learn to forgive others and leave the judgement to God. He will handle the punishment.
Do not take it upon yourself to correct the deed/ punish the person. If you do so, you might just end up committing another fowl act (which is not pleasing to God). Then you find yourself facing God and trying to justify your actions. Ask the Holy Spirit to teach you how to forgive and He will. I know you can do it. I know that this message has/ is going to help someone by changing their mindset about the popular statement, “an eye for an eye” or what we say in the West Africa, “you do me I do you!”
Always remember that our actions are not always justified. Before you do anything or say anything to anyone (in retaliation), always remember God’s word. As Christians, we are to live a Christ-like life; everyone is watching! Beware of your actions. Hallelujah!
The prayer below is for anyone who is tired of living a no-consequence life! God is ready to change your lifestyle by rejuvenating your heart, mind and soul. Just make the decision and say this short prayer.
Dear Lord,
I come to you today as a sinner. I admit that I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus is your Son and He came on to this earth to die for my sins. Dear Lord, let your Son come and fill me. Lord, I ask that He cleanses me off my sins. I am ready to stand for you and profess your Name. Thank you, Lord. Amen.
If you repeated this prayer with all the sincerity of your heart, congratulations!! You are now a part of God’s family. Welcome to the greatest family ever. Heaven is jubilating on your arrival. Your fellow brothers and sisters are also excited to have you on board. You can now be exempted from the wrath of the enemy and of God. Not only do you experience this, but your whole family as well. Wow! Isn’t the God you serve so cool? He is. Not only do you enjoy this, but you enjoy other blessings God has in store for His children.
Being a child of God is a wonderful thing. The road might not always be easy, but God is with you each and every step of the way. Guiding you, helping you and encouraging up. You will never regret this decision; I can assure you of that. Two things I would recommend for you to do are;
Get yourself a Bible (in a version you understand) and meditate on it day and night. In Joshua 1:8, we are told that when you meditate on the Word day and night, you will be prosperous and successful.
Find a Bible- believing church to attend and fellowship with other Christians. This would help you grow spiritually.
I am excited that you made this decision. Welcome! If you would like some help or more understanding into anything, you can leave a message (adding your email address) and I would be willing and happy to help you out. Hallelujah!
Have a wonderful day and let God inspire you!
This is the end of the hundred and eighteenth Part of the Genesis Story. How did you find it? Please give us feedback on how this message (and previous messages) have spoken to you. Don’t forget to subscribe to get notifications once we post.
Always remember to show love to everyone, as this is one of the most important commandments God left for us – “Love your neighbor as yourself.” In every situation, before you take a decision, remember WWJD (What Would Jesus Do). Shalom.
Stay tuned in for more details about our event in August. It is going to be live on all our social media platforms. It is all about Word, Worship and Prayer! #TimeAtHisFeet.
Please spend some time praying for Sammie’s Daily Dose to continue to be the platform for the sharing of The Gospel. Amen.