Talk about it.  As in intimidation and victimization, avoidance is just another instrument in the ill-prepared, man’s bag of conflict resolution tools.  Similarly effective at shutting down relevant or undesired conversation, dodging unpleasant subjects, and by stretching out the posterity of personal ignorance.  Though this never really solves anything it is a classic mechanism for delaying maturity.  Unfortunately, this ploy is tantamount to proxy condemnation for the believer.

The LORD does NOT allow FENCE sitters where the Truth of Christ is concerned.  Avoidance of acceptance, surrender and direction for a Christian brings the same punishment as will an out-right disbeliever.  In fact, I propose that an unbeliever, mocker or wicked man possesses exponentially more dignity in his resolve to stand for what he believes in, which just happens to be nothing but his own interests.  Whereas a Christian who avoids relevant conversation and duty is a turncoat, liar and more the snake than any other.

Here is the irony of the week; I asked myself yesterday, “What are the questions that I don’t want to be asked”?  The answer was disconcerting to say the least.  I confess my sin, I do not pray, do not give, do not love, do not forgive and frequently do what I know to be wrong just to suit my own desire.  I am rebellious to those the Lord has placed over me, disobedient to the Word and frankly have more energy for serving my flesh than I do the tasks to which God has designed me.  I speak flippantly, walk rashly and trample the sensitive cares of many of God’s children.  I ask forgiveness where I have none to give and expect God’s blessings where I have operated under poor assumption.  In the short of it, if not for the Blood of the Lord Jesus Christ, I myself would be nailed directly to that rugged cross for crimes of which I AM GUILTY.  Praise God He has provided a sacrifice to buy back my unworthy soul from eternal separation and agony.

Avoid avoidance like the plague that it is.  Be of good courage and strength as the Lord bids us.  Take the high ground and fear not those who can kill the body.  Speak the truth, to yourself first and then it will be easy to be honest with the world.  Love yourself enough to take your own medicinal criticism and encouragement.  Stand and He will fight for you.  Do not sneak, do not run, do not waver, dodge or relinquish your commission.  Love the Lord your God with all your heart mind and soul as you love no other and love your brother as you yourself would want to be loved.  Standing on the sidelines is a coward’s method for admitting guilt.  We love you Lord Jesus.

The Holy Spirit placed something on my heart today while reflecting on the circumstances surrounding our Lord’s last moment on Calvary’s Cross.  The two thieves represent the two sides of humanity with Christ their intercessor hanging between them.  One man accepted his fate, knowing himself rightfully condemned and seeking no forgiveness for his actions nor release from the inevitable separation from God.  In fact he was already distanced, veiled and lost, not being capable of cherishing the opportunity to speak directly to his Maker.  The other understood and without baptism or ritual found entry into paradise by his repentance and belief.  Yes, even on the Cross the Lord taught a perfect lesson of choice even to the last breath our fate is not yet determined.  However, some will look upon this and call this fatalist or predetermination in that one could see the other was blind.  Just because the Lord stands outside of time and knows what I will do before I choose to do it does not mean that He made the choice for me.  I am free to choose life or eternal separation from those that I love and await me at the Lord’s Patient Throne.  The Lord will not bear with humanity forever, so I pray that as the thief on the Cross you lay down your pride, ignorance and stubbornness and ask Him for salvation.  You will not be denied nor will you be disappointed.  Paradise lives here and is coming nearer each day.  Praise God in the Holy, Mighty Name of Jesus Christ the King of Everything.