Substitutes for the Real Thing

            In today’s world we have a hard time distinguishing between the false and the true, the substitute and the real thing.  We have substitutes in gasoline (Ethanol), clothing (synthetic fibers), furniture (oak veneer), and instead of metal we get plastic. 

            The spiritual realm has its share of substitutes.  People in many cultures are worshipping false gods in place of the one and only true God.  Jesus warned us in the gospels, “Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep, but are really vicious wolves” (Matthew 7:15 NLT).  Substitutes can be deceiving.  They taste almost as good as the real thing, but they are only second best.  To me, cookies taste better made with real butter rather than the substitute margarine.

            There is no substitute for the real thing in the spiritual realm.  I love the hymn, “I’d rather than Jesus than silver and gold” made famous by George Beverly Shea.  The words of the hymn emphasize the real thing as opposed to that which is false. 

            If we follow the principles laid down by God in his Holy Word, we won’t have to rely on substitutes – he is the real thing.   

Star Light - Star Bright

When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers -- the moon and the stars you set in place -- what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human being that you should care for them.  (Psalm 8:3-4 NLT)

   Lying on the grass and gazing at the Milky Way Galaxy, I wondered how Abraham must have felt when God said, "Look up into the heavens and count the stars if you can.  Your descendants will be like that -- too many to count."  (Genesis 15:5 NLT)

Wow!  Count the stars?  You must be kidding.  God, how can I ever begin to count them?  Do you mean my descendants will be that innumerable?  I'm sure he must have marveled at God's promise.  It would take a strong faith to believe in such a promise.  Abraham exhibited that kind of faith throughout his lifetime.

Are you a star gazer?  When you look up to the heavens, what do you see?  Do you see the creative power of a supernatural God?  Does the wonder of the heavenly hosts cause you to bow in worship, adoration, and praise?  If not, it surely should.  Take time tonight to worship God by starlight.