Riding the Fence…

Before the classic “battle” between God’s prophet Elijah and the false prophets of the false god, Baal, on Mt. Carmel, Elijah asks God’s people a very important question recorded for us in chapter 18 of 1 Kings: 21 And Elijah came to all the people, and said, “How long will you falter between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal, follow him.” But the people answered him not a word. Elijah is challenging the people of God to stop riding the fence…to stop pretending they could worship both God and Baal (as well as other false gods). God has never condoned riding the fence when it comes to following Him. God doesn’t work that way.

When you read the words of Jesus you read words like “counting the cost” and “follow Me” and “do not look back”. Over and over Jesus commands our complete obedience and submission. You can’t ride the fence and follow Jesus at the same time. Whether it be through the words of Elijah or the words of Jesus, will you decide to get off the fence and follow Jesus completely? If there are things in your life that are drawing you away from Him, take those things to God and, if necessary, another Christian friend, and talk about them. Choose to get rid of what you need to get rid of and add what you need to add so that you can truly love God with all your heart, soul and mind. Ask questions that you need to ask.  You won’t get perfect answers to all of your questions but you’ll get enough of an answer to want to follow Jesus, even as you continue to have more questions.  You will not be disappointed.