“I call heaven and earth to witness against you that today I have set before you life or death, blessing or curse. Oh, that you would choose life; that you and your children might live! Deuteronomy 30:19 (TLB)
Life or death? Blessing or curse? Seems like an easy decision to me—I desire life. Sadly many people choose death, spiritual death.
A beloved man died this past week. He chose abundant life on earth and eternal life in heaven through Jesus. His name—Billy Graham. His occupation—sharing the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ with people all over the world. He yearned for all people to know God through Christ. He desired for men, women, and children to choose life.
I stand with countless others who now honor this man, a true man of God, as he moves from physical death to eternal life. Yet he would point his honor to the glory of God. He would lead us in praising the One he preached about. He would prompt us in offering thanks to the One who graciously forgives. He would guide us in celebrating our Savior Jesus Christ.
At one point in his life, Billy wrestled with his faith in God, while recognizing the depth of the decision before him. His choice—to believe and stand firm on God’s holy Word. This humble man chose to walk with God everyday. He lived out loud his relationship with Jesus, publicly and privately. The words of Micah 6:8 detail the life Rev. Graham lived:
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.
And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God. (NIV)
The God of the universe created thinking individuals, not puppets, and offers choice. Scripture’s instructions on how to live life well are beautifully written from Genesis to Revelation. We can choose to obey or not.
If you haven’t made a choice, meditate upon this beautiful passage of Scripture:
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. John 3:16-17 (NIV)
Jesus Christ gave His life for every single person in the world, securing salvation for those who decide to believe in Him. Abundant life on earth and eternal life in heaven awaits those who make that choice.
Billy Graham chose life in Christ. He knew where he was going. He now resides in a heavenly home. What is your choice? Do you know where you are going?
I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.
“I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. John 10:9-11 (NASB)
Billy Graham lived a life of faithfulness, and so can you. ~Greg Laurie
Michael W. Smith - "I'll Lead You Home".......
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgnLfY0t3Mc