Really?!?

That word - 'really' - has come to be a fad term people used when they are shocked or surprised at something or someone.
It says a lot. (Kinda like 'dude' used in 50 inflections, but... dude... don't mistake the fact that 'dude' will be around a lot longer.)

So... when I talk with people as a pastor, so often I get their theological take on things really quickly.

"God as genie" is popular - rub the bottle/Bible/pew when you want something and He's supposed to deliver.

"God as bully" is also common. Pay no attention to Him in all the good days with food and shelter and friendships. But something bad happens or a you hit tough times or a natural disaster and everybody wants to blame Him.

"God as (whatever you want he/she/it to be)" comes up a lot too. That whole 'god' thing is really a 'pick what you want' as long as you are 'sincere.' You name it and carry it around when you want and toss it away as wanted too. But don't let anything like Scripture or the testimony of millions of believers around the world to the fact that He is real and has a solid and dependable character get in your way.

To these I say, "Really!?!"

Lots of people want good stuff with no effort - in school, work situations, relationships, and life overall.
It doesn't work that way.
It takes effort to grow up.
It takes sacrifice to earn and/or give away something of true value.
It takes saying 'no' to lots of cheap things to gain something of value.

Check out this verse...
"In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood." Hebrews 12:4

Jesus did. He did struggle against sin - with full success. Then He gave away His perfect life to anyone who will believe Him and take Him at His Word - that He is who the Bible says and does what the Bible says.

We have a Savior. His name is Jesus Christ.

If you know that and realize that today is the day to pick your Bible back up and pray with an open heart to such a great God, cool. Enjoy.

If you are reading this and thinking (really) "Really?!?" - then message me and I'll tell you more about Him.