Today I was reading about the lives of Ananias and his wife Sapphira in the book of Acts. Their story is shocking and not something to be trifled with. In fact, it should be taken to heart and serve as a wake-up call about the character of the God that we serve. Yes, He is loving, compassionate, forgiving and kind, but He’s also holy and expects His people to be likewise.
Both inwardly and outwardly, Ananias and Sapphira had forgotten, or never fully understood, this, for, if they had, they would have known not to lie to the Holy Spirit. This sin cost them their lives and resulted in great fear falling on the early Church. God is a holy God, and true worshippers worship in spirit and in truth.
In Proverbs 12:22, we read that lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are His delight. The word ‘abomination’ is not a word we use very much today, but it has a powerful meaning. When our holy God says something is ‘abominable’ to Him, He is saying that it is completely unacceptable in His sight. Synonyms for ‘abominable’ would include ‘evil’, ‘disgraceful’, and ‘atrocious’. Or one could say something is ‘anathema’ to God. Often, what God declares to be an abomination, man declares to be acceptable, and, as Christians, we need to side with our God.
Do you know what He considers to be an abomination? God has shown us clearly in His word what He requires of us, His holy and chosen people. We are to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with our God.
Prayer: Father God, You are a good God, who is merciful and compassionate, but You are also holy. Help me not to forget this, but to live it out in my everyday life. I ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.
With what shall I come to the Lord and bow myself before the God on high? ... he has told you, mortal one, what is good, and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
Micah 6:6-8, NASB
Sue Cronk now lives permanently in Australia and is married to Peter. She is involved with Ellel Victoria and is presently teaching on the Explore Course in Melbourne. Her passion is to encourage God`s people by speaking hope and courage into their lives.
This website is owned and operated by Ellel Ministries International. Registered in the United Kingdom as The Christian Trust under charity number 1041237 and company number 02883771. Registered in Scotland under charity number SCO 38860. Registered office Ellel Grange, Bay Horse, Lancaster, LA2 0HN, United Kingdom.