The Choice Is Ours Series

Understanding the Difference Between the Godly and the Wicked

As human beings, we are faced with choices every day. We can choose to live a life that honors God or one that rejects His ways. The Bible teaches us that our choices have consequences and that we will be held accountable for them. In this sermon, we will explore why godly people are different and why the wicked often justify and attack those who live uprightly.

The Bible teaches us that our choices are our own

In Deuteronomy 30:19, Moses says, "This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live." This scripture emphasizes that the choice between life and death, blessings and curses, is ours to make.

Godly people are different because they choose to obey God

Godly people are those who have chosen to follow God's ways and obey His commands. They understand that God's ways are not always easy, but they are willing to make sacrifices in order to live a life that honors Him. As the Psalmist says, "I have chosen the way of truth; I have set my heart on your laws" (Psalm 119:30).

The wicked often justify and attack those who live uprightly

Unfortunately, those who choose to live a life of sin often justify their actions and attack those who live uprightly. The Bible warns us that this will happen. In 2 Timothy 3:12, Paul says, "In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." This persecution can come in many forms, including verbal attacks and ridicule.

Here are few examples from the Bible that illustrate the difference between the godly and the wicked:

Noah and the wicked people of his day (Genesis 6-9). Noah chose to obey God and build an ark, while the wicked people of his day rejected God's warning and were destroyed in the flood.

Joseph and his brothers (Genesis 37-50). Joseph chose to forgive his brothers and live a life of integrity, while his brothers chose to sin against him and live a life of deceit.

David and King Saul (1 Samuel 16-31). David chose to trust in God and live a life of obedience, while King Saul chose to rebel against God and live a life of disobedience.

Daniel and the Babylonian officials (Daniel 1-6). Daniel chose to obey God and refuse to worship idols, while the Babylonian officials chose to worship idols and persecute Daniel.

Jesus and the Pharisees (Matthew 12:1-14, Mark 3:1-6, Luke 13:10-17). Jesus chose to heal on the Sabbath and live a life of compassion, while the Pharisees chose to criticize Him and live a life of legalism.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between living a godly life and living a life of sin is ours to make. Godly people are different because they choose to obey God and live a life of integrity. The wicked often justify and attack those who live uprightly, but we must not be deterred. Instead, we must continue to choose God's ways and live a life that honors Him.