The best things in the Bible, the true promises of God typically (always?) have a negative cover or skin. Beginning with acknowledgement of our sinfulness which is our first step toward the saving grace of Jesus Christ.
- Romans 3:23 (NASB)
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
And continuing with the transforming work of the word of God in the life of the believer. Reprove, rebuke, correct, teach …
- 2 Timothy 3:16 (NASB)
All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness. - 2 Timothy 4:2 (NASB)
Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction.
And this brings us to the truly good stuff – intimacy with God as we walk the planet. Much better than standing as a child with our hand out waiting for another jelly bean (blessing) from God. But too many of us who want a life blessed by God insist on our own path.
Expressing an interest for the things of God we still resist his work in our lives. We don’t bow before his majesty: we merely draw near with our lips keeping our hearts at a distance and missing the best stuff.
The abundance Christ spoke of is behind the door God chooses.
- John 10:10 (NASB95)
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.
But we turn from the best stuff because it is negative in the sense of changing our lives.
We hold out for the jelly bean and refuse God.
