For months I have agonized and been tormented by the spiritual death of a friend who left her life in Christ. I remember the words of Jesus, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). The notion of life without Jesus terrifies me for her. No matter how we twist it – No matter how much we ignore it – No matter how hard we fight it – There is no salvation outside of following Jesus.
I have also struggled with the call of 1 Cor 5. Not of whether or not to do it, but the pain in obeying it.
When I wrote to you before, I told you not to associate with people who indulge in sexual sin. But I wasn’t talking about unbelievers who indulge in sexual sin, or are greedy, or cheat people, or worship idols. You would have to leave this world to avoid people like that. I meant that you are not to associate with anyone who claims to be a believer yet indulges in sexual sin, or is greedy, or worships idols, or is abusive, or is a drunkard, or cheats people. Don’t even eat with such people.
Recently, during a particularly difficult day, I came across these words written by Rachel Chan. She’s only 16 years old, but her words captured my heart and validated my response.
It's not that I don't love you I hope you understand Because of what your choosing I can not be your friend But oh how I love to take your hand And lead you away from where you stand But i can't walk beside you On a road we know is wrong It breaks my heart to leave you In a place you don't belong And God knows i wanna stand by you But until the day you love whats true
I'll be ready and waiting here for you As soon as you find nothing satisfies Your thirsty eyes then you'll see Why I had to leave
I know you think your alright But you can not deny Your life was so much brighter When you lived it in the light I know what its like to live a lie To feel like your broken deep in side I know how it hurts to cross that line So until you've left that world behind
I'll be ready and waiting here for you As soon as you find nothing satisfies Your thirsty eyes then you'll see Oh I hope you see sooooooon
I know what its like to live a lie To feel like your broken deep in side I know how it hurts to cross that line So until you' leave that world behind
I'll be ready and waiting here for you As soon as you find Jesus satisfies Your thirsty eyes then you'll see Why I had to leave
I'll be ready and waiting here for you As soon as you find Jesus satisfies Your thirsty eyes then you'll see Why I had to leave
