CHOOSE LIFE

"I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live." - Deuteronomy 30:19

Life is a precious gift granted unto the human race by its Creator.  Many nations do not share in my view that life is precious.  In many of these countries, lives are snuffed out without hesitation.  Genocide is a regular occurrence in some areas.  Such heartless treatment of human life is appalling. 

In the book of Deuteronomy, the people of God were challenged to live for God.  Through the years, they had been erratic in their love for God.  Obedience to the Lord was rare.  Despite the leadership of Moses, the Israelites were constantly complaining and rebelling against God.  They failed to understand that disobedience to God always leads to heartache. 

As Moses neared the end of his life, he warned the people that their response to God was a matter of life and death.  Israel, like many church members today, felt that God's command was an option to be considered rather than an order to be obeyed.  In response to this flawed attitude, Moses said, "I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live."  The people were challenged to "choose life," by obeying God.

This is a similar situation that mankind faces today.  Each individual will make choices in life.  Some of these choices are a matter of life and death.  Sadly, many people treat these serious decisions with levity. 

Let me challenge you to choose life --- especially in three areas. 

1.  WHEN IT COMES TO THE UNBORN, CHOOSE LIFE

First of all, when it comes to the unborn, choose life.  The argument about "a woman's right," in the abortion debate overshadows a greater issue:  the right of the unborn.  A current U. S. Presidential candidate recently said, "The unborn have no rights under the Constitution."  While I object to her opinion, I need to remind her and everyone who agrees with her that there is a greater law to be considered.  Whether or not the U. S. Constitution allows protection to the unborn or not, the law of God certainly speaks against abortion.  Ultimately every person will be judged --- not by the U. S. law, but God's law.  If we seek the blessings of God on our nation, we cannot treat His law with utter disregard.

For all who seriously consider having an abortion, let me state the obvious.  CHOOSE LIFE.  Save yourself the emotional pain and regret that comes from terminating a life.  You are responsible to God for your choice.  Choose wisely.  Choose life.

2.  WHEN IT COMES TO THE UNHOLY, CHOOSE LIFE

The Bible says, "Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap."  Many people make unholy decisions that lead to death. 

Our society is being destroyed from within.  Let's be honest.  The life of the average American is an unholy mess.  Many of our residents are dying from sinful addictions, such as gambling, drugs and alcohol.  Sadly, many of the funerals in my home county are overdose cases. 

It could be that someone reading this is being tempted to go down the path of destruction.  Let me caution you to STOP.  Instead of pursuing the thrill of some foreign substance, choose life! 

For someone else, your life is an unholy mess right now.  You are consumed with unholy passions and addictions.  Don't fool yourself.  You need help.  Don't rule out the help of others, but let me suggest that you begin on your knees, seeking God's help.  Before it is too late, choose life!

3.  WHEN IT COMES TO THE UNCONVERTED, CHOOSE LIFE

Finally, it may be that someone reading this message has never been born again.  Your sins have separated you from God.  He is holy and you are not.  His holiness will not permit unclean people to enter heaven. 

The good news is that Jesus Christ came and died upon a cross to save sinners.  Through His shed blood, payment has been made for the sins of those who will believe.  When a man repents of his sins and places his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, the blood of Jesus covers his sins.  Salvation is of the Lord.  You must get saved and Jesus is the only One who can save you.

Jesus Christ came to bring you life (John 10:10).  Apart from Him, you will die in your sins.  The gift of eternal life is available to those who believe.  Through repentance and faith, you can experience abundant life through Jesus Christ.  Choose life today!

Along with Joshua, I say, "... choose you this day whom ye will serve ... but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."  (Joshua 24:15).

Choose life!