In God there is no changing character, and no variation or shifting shadow; that is, God is faithful (James 1:17; Deuteronomy 7:9; Numbers 23:19). On the other hand, many people change their plans frequently and their minds change fast. This is because they have cunningness in their hearts that turn to left or right seeking their own benefits. If one has this kind of changing heart, he may find it hard to experience God's works through faith. Although such a person received God's grace, he may forsake the grace easily and it might lead to the stagnation of spiritual growth. Moreover, it might make it hard for him to be saved. That is why we should remember Proverbs 4:23, saying, "Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life."
1. The Pharaoh broke his promises repeatedly although he witnessed God's works
The Pharaoh of Egypt was faced with the ten plagues due to his changing character. Eventually, he and his Egyptian army troops all died under the Red Sea. Because he had a hardened heart, even though he had seen God's works, he did not revere God and broke the promises made with Moses who had delivered the will of God to him.
Many people say that they believe the living God by witnessing the great works of God, but they do not show deeds worthy of the belief. If they really revere God, they should cast off evil and act in goodness (Proverbs 8:13). Then they can have perfect faith without changing no matter what kinds of trials may come.
2. Saul became arrogant after he became the king
Before he became the king, Saul humbled himself before Samuel the prophet. When he assumed the throne he was so shy and humble that he hid himself. But afterwards, he became arrogant. He suffered from an evil spirit and ended up in a miserable death (Proverbs 15:10; 16:18).
Like him, some people who were humble and served others change their attitude when they are given a higher title or duty. When something does not agree with their thoughts, they disobey. They may command others. At one time they thought, 'How grateful I am for the opportunity that is given to pile up rewards for a person like me!' However, now they might complain saying, 'Why me? Isn't there anyone else who will do it?' You need to check if you have even thought this way, and humble yourself again.
3. King Asa relied on God but later changed and relied on men
King Asa once loved God and removed idolatry from his country. He also removed his mother from the position of queen mother, because she had made a horrid image as an Asherah. He relied on God, but later he relied on men. He sought the physicians when he became diseased in his feet and he finally died two years later (2 Chronicles Chapters 14 through 16). God gave him chances of repentance for two years but he did not turn back. So God could not protect him any longer.
If you change your determination of the dedication to the Lord and compromise with the world again, you may become diseased or meet with some problems. God cannot protect such people. When you are faced with some problems that seem impossible to solve, you must believe God the Creator and rely on Him. Then, God will recognize the faith and give you the answer.
4. Though he had been loyal, Joab was treacherous following his own feelings and will
Joab made many great contributions to King David and helped him make the country strong. However, he put his selfish motives and his self-righteousness before David's will. So he placed David in a difficult situation by killing people who were more righteous and better than he (2 Samuel 3:27-39). In the end, Joab rebelled and was killed.
If one forsakes faith though he was once devoted to the kingdom of God, his heavenly rewards will disappear. More seriously, it will be hard for the person to be saved. If you fulfill your duty with a sense of duty or do it without sincerity and just do it habitually, or if you find it hard to do your God-given duty, it means your heart might have changed. So, you must work faithfully without changing as long as you are given the duty until the Lord comes again (1 Corinthians 15:58; Revelation 3:11).
5. Ananias and Sapphira broke their vow because of their greed for money
In Acts 5, Ananias and Sapphira of the Early Church made a vow to sell all they had and give it to God, but due to their greed for money they gave part and kept part of it. As Apostle Peter rebuked them, they breathed their last.
Therefore, if you vow before God you must keep it. When you make a vow to God, you should not delay to pay it, you should keep your oath even when it hurts and must not replace it, not 'a good for a bad', or 'a bad for a good' (Deuteronomy 23:21-23; Psalm 15:4; Leviticus 27:10; Ecclesiastes 5:6). The passages show that God hates the changing of one's mind. We should keep the promise we made with God, fulfill it quickly and thereby enjoy the blessing prepared for us.
6. Judas Iscariot changed because things did not agree with his thoughts and there was no benefit for him
Judas Iscariot sold Jesus to the high priests because following Him did not seem to be beneficial for him and things did not agree with his thoughts. He personally saw Jesus' ministry, but he did not circumcise his heart. Eventually, he committed suicide in a miserable death (Acts 1:18).
God's children who received the Holy Spirit should pray unceasingly, circumcise their hearts and communicate with God. Then, they can believe every Word of God in the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. God sees each one's heart and deeds. Therefore, the extent we are filled with the Holy Spirit and offer up the fragrance of our hearts decides the answer and blessings received.
|
Manmin News 
10216
