April 12, 1999, Monday

Are most people rational and open to sound logic or do they

turn a deaf ear to the truth? What type of reasoning is the

most effective to bring about change in one's actions? Is it

possible for someone to change so radically, that he would

not be recognized as the same person?

Paul preached to the Jews in Thessalonica at their place

of worship to rationally persuade them of the Scriptures

that say Jesus was the Messiah and to have faith in Him --

"And according to Paul's custom, he went to them, and for

three Sabbaths he reasoned with them from the Scriptures"

(Acts 17:2). Paul was patient with them to have faith, but

was resolute to convince them of the truth. For a man to

be born again and converted, he must hear the truth and

reason for himself to have faith in God and be saved.

Jesus was determined to teach His disciples and converts

of the purpose of a person committed to living by faith

and the wisdom of God. His reasoning put it in perspective-

"Let your light shine before men in such a way that they

may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is

in heaven" (Mat 5:16). Others may be motivated by reason

to love God and serve Him also. Progress is made for the

individual living by faith and God's wisdom. As one grows

in the Gospel, God's glory is his goal!

Paul explained to the Ephesians the purpose and the benefits

of Jesus to each Convert and Believer that is a new creature-

"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good

works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in

them" (Eph 2:10). His workmanship proves both that salvation

is by faith, and that faith is the gift of God. To walk in His

ways is proof that he's radically changed and his faith is true!

Let us remember who is the Creator of the universe. God's

Name is Jehová Hoseem. He is the God who is the Creator

of our faith and reason. He is the Creator of our growth

and progress in Him. He is the Creator of the New Creature

spiritually. Trust Him and Praise Him Today for all the

"new" that has come and the "old" that has passed away. He

is determined to bring us joy as we progress in Him.