Heaven With God, or Hell Without Him

Read Psalm 36

Psalm 36:1,3-4

Transgression speaks to the wicked deep in his heart; there is no fear of God before his eyes...The words of his mouth are trouble and deceit; he has ceased to act wisely and do good...he does not reject evil.

No fear of God. What does that lead to?

The end result is trouble, deceit, and ultimately, separation from God. Psalm 36 begins with four verses that describe an evil person. This person leads a wicked life that is prideful and arrogant. Selfishness drives all decisions and destroys the lives of those who get too close. It does not reject evil, but accepts it as wisdom.

On the flip side, Psalm 36:5-12 are words of gratitude for God's continuing favor on the life of the person who remains close to Him. Statements like "precious and steadfast love", "feasting on abundance", and "drinking from the river of Your delights" describe a full and happy life in Christ.

The Psalm ends with a plea to never become like the evil person who has fallen victim to lies that lead to trouble and deceit.

Jesus said in John 10:10 "The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy. I have come that you would have life, and have it to the fullest."

This Scripture can be broken down into two parts, just like Psalm 36.

"The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy." How? (Psalm 36:1-4) "I have come that you would have life and have it to the fullest." How? (Psalm 36:5-12)

You see, the thief comes and promises the world. He tells you to pursue your own happiness and not to worry about anyone else or the consequences. He tells you not to fear God and encourages you to be your own god. It sounds wonderful, but the results of believing this lie is destruction. Honestly, it's hell.

Jesus, on the other hand, asks you to deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Him. (Matt 16:24) And somehow, in God's perfect way, when we give our lives to Jesus as a "living sacrifice" He gives us life to the fullest that comes complete with eternal rewards. Sounds like heaven to me!

(Proverbs 9:10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom)

When I consider the two options I can only come to one conclusion. I prefer Heaven with God, cause it's Hell without Him.

Precious Lord, each day we are faced with the decision to follow Your ways, or believe the lies of the enemy. I pray for every person who reads this devotion. Guide them into your truth and lead them to believe Your words and to follow You. May they have life to the fullest and flea from all evil. In Your Name, Jesus. Amen

Josh Huisman is the senior pastor of Crosswalk Church in Brentwood, TN.

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