Last week in the San Fernando Valley of LA CA, a man was on a killing spree that took the lives of four people. 26 year old Gerry Zaragoza started off by killing his father and brother in Canoga Park, wounding his mother. He then traveled to a gas station where he killed another man and wounding a a woman who the suspect knew. Finally he boarded a bus and killed another man for no apparent reason. Police finally apprehended Zaragoza and took him into custody.
Close friends of the victims stated Gerry was a drug addict and had been instructed to enter a rehab on many occasions. This man must have been under the influence of a controlled substance to carry out these heinous crimes.
We have all heard of a DUI or Driving under the Influence when someone attempts to drive a car after drinking alcohol. It impairs their ability to operate the vehicle safely and too often leads to injury or death of innocent bystanders.
Similarly, we here on planet Earth are dealing with LUI. LUI is Living under the Influence. Not under the influence of alcohol or drugs but of something more devastating- Sin. An even more devastating substance than drugs or alcohol that impairs our ability to love or honor God. Just like with Gerry Zaragosa, it always leads to the injury and death of innocent people.
The influence of sin is all around us as we navigate this world we live in. The temptations to "feel good" or exercise self gratification display their wares throughout our land. Domination over others is the norm and family drama is promoted on TV. The articles of sin are within easy reach of humans and are preferred over things that bring us closer in love. Sin leads to obesity, loneliness, struggle, conflict and eventually death.
The Scriptures warn us of the existence of sin in 1 John.
For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. 1 John 2:16
We need not be of this world but of the world to come. One where the influences of sin are no more. Where we have overcome the trials of temptation and declared victory over sin through the blood of Jesus. Only through Him can we expect to overcome and destroy this addiction to sin. The alcoholics lean on their higher power and we too have a Higher Power seated at the right hand of God Himself to intercede for us and help us in our time of need. We should come to this throne daily in prayer and supplication to appeal to Him who can strengthen us during our battle with this disease.
Help us Lord Jesus in our struggle and strengthen us to overcome. Amen.
And that is the Whole Truth!
Have a wonderful rest of the week and may God bless you in your ongoing walk with Him.
And remember,
God always answers His kneemail.
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