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God gave a vision to Ezekiel, in which he saw a man with a writer's inkhorn who was commanded to put a mark on the forehead of all those that "sigh and cry" for the abominations that were being committed in the midst of the holy city. In the vision, there were six other men with him, who were told to slay everyone except those that had the mark upon them.

Throughout biblical history, we are told about how, time after time, God's people murmured against Him and His government on earth. Never satisfied, the people wanted to do it their own way. They seemed to always want to be called God's people, while living a life contrary to God's commandments.

Thus we see two types of believers: those that "sigh and cry," and those that "whine and cry."

Which are you? Do you see the behavior of the so-called Christian leaders, and cry out to God to send shepherds after His heart? Do you hear the deception coming from Christian pulpits, and desire to be fed with knowledge and understanding? Or are you looking for a church, in which you can act however you want, and hear a sermon totally devoid of the convicting power of a holy God? Are you looking for a no-holds-barred presentation of God's word, or a mealy-mouthed, abridged version, in which God loves you just the way you are, and is ready to heap blessings on you regardless of your commitment to serve Him?

Are you never content with what you have, always expecting God to give you more? Perhaps you seek a newer car, a bigger house, or a prettier wife. Do you ignore the word of God, unless it fits in with your agenda? Or are you totally committed to the Lord, submitting yourself to His will, and ready to perform it regardless of the cost?

"Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves" (2 Cor. 13:5).

Do you sigh and cry for the evil done by people who proclaim to be sons and daughters of God? Or do you simply whine and cry, because things don't always go to suit you?

I beseech you, therefore, brethren, "Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen" (Jude 1:21-25).

"Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen" (Eph. 6:23-24).

David M. McNabb
Editor & Bible Guy