For several years I have had the pleasant privilege to sit and visit with inmates ( people put in jail for committing a crime). I also visited juvenile detention centers, where minors are sent when they get caught up on the wrong side of the law. What I`ve come to understand is everyone has a unique story, as how they got to where they are. And though the system may have them identified with a number, or a name as convict, inmate or felon. They all are human beings. They all have to face judgement with God. No differently from everyone else in society. I know it`s a difficult topic. Most people have their own mind-set, as to what and who, can be forgiven. My message to them is not to just forgive them, of their poor decision that brought them to the place they are in. My advice, and message to them is that they can be forgiven by God. Some may never be released, but they still can have a new life. Their debt to society will still have to be paid. I often speak of the Apostle Paul, how this man worked for the law, until God got a hold of him.....then he had to face the law, and go against it, to do the work of God. (Romans 7:7) Paul, spoke of the good he knew he should be doing, but admittedly,he does`nt. And the bad things he was totally aware that he should not do. Those things he did! I still remember years ago when this passage was first shown to me. I laughed, not so much because it was funny, but at the time I too related to what Paul was feeling. I realized that I was not alone. I realized where the voice in my head was coming from. Everyone deals with this reality on a daily basis. It does`nt matter if your an inmate in some facility. Or if your out, free in society. Everyday, there is a voice in your head, some times it`s more than one voice. Voices in form of thoughts, thoughts that become words. Words that are constantly committing you to actions, and those very actions create the character of the person you portray everyday. (1 Corinthians 15:31) When the Apostle Paul says; we must die daily. He does`nt mean your physical being. He means you must kill off that natural sinner, that lives inside your mind. When you speak to God accepting him as your Lord and Savior, ask him for his Holy Spirit, to come live with you. Just know, you cannot serve God, and satan at the same time. If God and his Holy Spirit dwell in your life, satan along with evil spirits, and bad thoughts will leave your side. I urge you to become a child of God. And start living a blessed and wonderful life. When others ask you, how did you buy that new home, or that new car? Let them know, you gave your heart and life to Christ. God who has the power and authority over all things on this earth. Remember, where man, and all his governing agencies, may say no. God can say yes! If you find yourself making bad decisions or in a place you don't want to be in, speak to God, and seek his direction. Be careful who your listening to. Conform yourself to God`s standards and not "Friends" who claim they have your best interest at heart. Trust in the lord, with all your might, and He will grant you the desires of your heart. ( Proverbs 3:5-6) &
(Psalm 37:4). May God richly bless you.
Love always, Irving Serrano Sr.
No comments:
Post a Comment