Welcome to the blog of Pastor Alton Stone, from Simpsonville, SC. Pastor Stone is a retired Ordained Bishop of The Church of God, Cleveland, Tennessee with over 45 years of pastoral ministry.

Saturday, July 7, 2018

Blocking Your Blessing (Part 4)

Blocking Your Blessing (Part 4)

Matthew 13:19-22 NLV "When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path. The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful." 

Pride is a serious offense and can lead one down the road to destruction.  The core of Satan’s sin was pride. He wanted to be as glorious as God and wanted to replace Him. This is how Satan succeeds at tempting us. He’s familiar with pride, his ultimate downfall. 

-He will tempt us where he knows our flesh is weakest. 

-He’ll work in different ways with each person. 

-He tempts us with anger, lust, pride and worry.

When we allow too much pride in ourselves over accomplishments, we are allowing it to become an idol in our lives. When pride becomes conceit, whether it be over our looks, possessions, bank accounts, jobs, or intelligence, we no longer feel the need for God because we feel superior in our lives.  

God’s Word warns us not to act superior or to speak arrogantly. He knows our deeds and we will be judged accordingly. When we work hard and accomplish our goals, it’s human nature to want everyone to see how successful we’ve become. The thing is, what man thinks of us is not important. It’s only what God thinks that matters.  

Psalm 31:23 “Love the Lord, all you faithful ones! For the Lord protects those who are loyal to him, but he harshly punishes all who are arrogant.” 



 

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