Dale Cresap's blog

Does it ever surprise you when I answer the prayers of other people? Does it ever surprise you when I answer yours? There are some who suppose that gain is godliness and they ask for much in the way of material things.

You live in a world of commerce in which you expect to get paid for the work you do, and that the same rule applies to all. Yet I told a parable of workers who all got the same pay regardless of how long they worked, and said that he who receives a prophet in the name of a prophet receives a prophet’s reward.

Can one be blind and not know it? Not in a natural sense, but this is possible in a spiritual sense. The Pharisees asked me if they were blind also. Can you be lost and not know it?

What perspective do you take of history? Do you see random events? Irresistible forces? Prominent individuals who change the course of events for all who come after them? My view of history is more complete than yours, and I see it as a progression to a conclusion, that the kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of Our Lord and of his Christ.

What do you have that you did not receive? What you refer to as natural talents and abilities are gifts from me. Yet how many talented people do you know that perform at a high level without putting in any effort to develop their abilities?

What do you consider to be the most important measure of a man? Do you value correct doctrine above all else? Yet do you know any mean people who hold to orthodox biblical truth? What did I tell the people about the teachings of the Pharisees?

Search the scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life, and they testify of me. Come to me and have life. My Kingdom is already within you. The law is a schoolmaster and the rest of scripture serves as a guide and a testimony.

Even unbelievers are familiar with the golden rule of doing unto others what you would have them do to you. Yet how often do you mentally reverse roles and place yourself in the position of someone you interact with, to see things from their point of view and consider how you would like to be treated in their position?

Do you judge people according to stereotypes? Race and national origin and gender and age were the originals, but now you may see an even stronger resemblance based on occupation. You know you shouldn’t judge in this way, but there are so many people that treating each one as an individual is a demanding task.

Do you see my hand at work in your life correcting your faults? Do you ever wonder why it takes as long as it does? I acknowledge that this is a painful process, and I know what you are able to bear. Sometimes it is more than you think it is, but I do not eagerly afflict my children lest they should be grieved.