Contemplative Bible Reading

2 Chronicles 19:6-7 (New Living Translation)

“Always think carefully before pronouncing judgment. Remember that you do not judge to please people but to please the Lord. He will be with you when you render the verdict in each case. ⁷ Fear the Lord and judge with integrity, for the Lord our God does not tolerate perverted justice, partiality, or the taking of bribes.”

“I don’t try to please any of you. I please God,” said many who were not well liked in what they said or did, but wanted to justify themselves.

Above is the easiest and one of the most used excuses by people who find themselves alone or in a very small group. People don’t like me and don’t like us because we are with God. Those popular folks just try to be popular by doing whatever it takes. There is some merit to those statements and arguments. Being with God is not a popular stance in many instances.

Note the third sentence. God will be with the judges when they judge to please God, not the people. Unpopular stance? Maybe. Is God with me in my stance? Well, sure, I’m a Christian. God is always with me. Really? Am I sure of that? Am I using God as an excuse for my folly? Am I just plain wrong? Well, uh, er, I uh…

This isn’t easy. I try. Some days are better than others. Some days I am a miserable failure and those days are my own fault. Please God, help me when I fall flat on my face. Help me in my unbelief.