Some People Are Awful, And That’s Okay

God is not a pragmatist.

The end does not justify the means with God.

God cares deeply about our motives and the intent of our hearts.

For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.Psalm 51:16-17

God desires worship from a pure heart.

Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.Psalm 24:3-5

But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.1 Samuel 16:7

God desires full obedience, not results.

But this thing commanded I them, saying, Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be my people: and walk ye in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well unto you.Jeremiah 7:23

Paul does not excuse false teaching.

Paul does not excuse those who would be harmful to the cause of Christ.

Paul excuses those whose motives may be suspect.

Paul excuses those who have a personal issue with him.

People will be people, the Lord is the righteous judge.

Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth: Lest the LORD see it, and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath from him.Proverbs 24:17-18

God can take difficult situations and sinful people and advance His cause.

God can use anything to get Himself glory.

God’s purpose will not be thwarted.

Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:Isaiah 46:10

Live for the glory of God, not the praise of man.

The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.Proverbs 29:25

We can rejoice at the good that comes from every situation.

This life isn’t about you, it’s about Jesus.

The only person you can change is you.

I cannot always change my circumstances, but I can always choose my response.

If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink: For thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head, and the LORD shall reward thee.Proverbs 25:21-22

We cannot allow the actions of others to steal our joy.

Fret not thyself because of evil men, neither be thou envious at the wicked; For there shall be no reward to the evil man; the candle of the wicked shall be put out.Proverbs 24:19-20