"Missed It"
EPISODE 95
Don't Miss Out on Salvation
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Nothing is more heartbreaking in sports than losing by a single point — the missed field goal, the three-pointer bouncing off the rim. They were so close to winning but missed it by that much.
The Bible records many examples of people who almost made it. And from their stories, we find encouragement to finish the contest of our lives with strength.
Missed the Promised Land
"Go up this mountain of the Abarim, Mount Nebo, which is in the land of Moab, opposite Jericho, and view the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the people of Israel for a possession. And die on the mountain which you go up ... because you broke faith with me in the midst of the people of Israel at the waters of Meribah-kadesh ..." (Deut. 32:49-52).
Though Moses had endured years of hardship, leading the people to Canaan, he missed out on entering because of one terrible decision. When God told him to speak to the rock at Meribah (Num. 20:8), frustration got the best of him. And by striking the rock with his staff instead (Num. 20:10-11), he sealed his fate to die in the wilderness.
Small decisions can have huge impacts. And when we overlook God's instructions, even in seemingly minor situations, the ripple effects can keep us from God's promises. So, are you neglecting any small instructions on your journey toward heaven?
Missed Paradise
"... between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us" (Luke 16:26).
In Jesus' famous parable of the rich man and Lazarus, we see a frightening picture from beyond the grave. As the rich man suffered in torment, he saw paradise outside his reach. And though he begged to go there, he was prevented by the tremendous uncrossable gulf which separated the two.
Part of the punishment of eternal condemnation will be the constant reminder that we almost made it. We'll see the pleasure and comfort of God's rest, but it'll be just outside our reach. And for all eternity, we'll regret not living our lives for Christ while we still had the chance. So, what side of that great gulf will you be on?
Missed Discipleship
"You almost persuade me to become a Christian" (Acts 26:28, NKJV).
When Paul gave his defense before King Agrippa, his argument was compelling enough to almost convince him to become a disciple. Though we don't know if he ever did commit himself to the Lord, almost isn't enough.
What would convince you to go "all-in" for Jesus? What's holding you back? Let the truth of God's love take root in your heart and produce the fruit of His Spirit within you. And don't miss out on the promised rest by waiting any longer.
