One of the earliest game shows was Let's Make A Deal. The host would give a contestant an envelope with money or a prize and then offer them another deal. They would give up the cash or prize the knew had value for something sight unseen. It could be fabulous or a "Zonk."
Whether we realize it or not, we make deals every day. We exchange our time to participate in sports, exercise classes, or other activities. We trade in our car for a new or used vehicle. It could be a great deal or a "Zonk."
People in the Word of God made deals as well. Some of them were bad and some were good.
Bad
1. Genesis 3:1-8 - Adam and Eve had authority over the Garden and everything in it. They walked with God in the still of the evening. The enemy came along and deceived Eve into thinking he was offering something better. This deal not only cost them personally, but it took Jesus coming to earth and dying on the cross to get back what they handed over to the enemy.
2. Genesis 13:1-13 - While Lot stayed with Abraham, he prospered. Both he and Abraham had so much livestock that their herdsmen began arguing. Abraham suggested they separate. Instead of considering the move and perhaps coming to terms, Lot agreed. He chose the fertile plain of Jordan. His decision was based on what he could see. He ended up losing much of what he had and living among ungodly people.
3. Joshua 7:19-21 - God ordered that no spoils be taken from Jericho. Achan allowed the glitter of silver and a beautiful garment to tempt him. He traded a relationship with God for these items and ended up dying.
Good
1. Genesis 12:1-4 - God told Abraham to leave his country and his family and move to another place. He gave up something familiar, pulled up roots, and followed God's leading. As a result, God made him a great nation.
2. Matthew 4:18-22 - Jesus approached some of the disciples with a deal. If they'd follow Him, He'd make them fishers of men. They left their nets and followed him.
3. Acts 9 - Jesus stopped Saul (Paul) on the road to Damascus. After persecuting the church, Saul had to decide between continuing on his current course or giving his life to Jesus. His decision impacted not only his life, but also the lives of countless people who came to Christ as a result of his ministry.
What kind of deals are you making? When you choose to walk in obedience to God, He can entrust you with the anointing. The little you give up is far less than what He has in store for you.
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If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to Zoe Christian Fellowship. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Route 611), in Warrington, PA. We look forward to meeting you!
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