The Hunger of the Soul - Richard E. Simmons III

What has shaped your ideas about life and about God? Where did you get those ideas and beliefs? Where did you get the perspective that you bring into your life? If God came and spoke to us, I think He would tell us to listen to the words of Jesus. Listen to what He has to say to you, and about where you are in life. "But why should I listen to Him?" you might ask. What does He have to say that’s relevant to me and my life?

The first reason is that His words are true. In Matthew 24:35 Jesus says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away.” Whether you lived a thousand years ago, or whether you live today, Jesus' words will have an everlasting application to your life.

A second reason is that one day, our lives will be judged by His words. In John 5:22-23, Jesus says, "For the Father judges no one, but has given all judgment to the Son, that all may honor the Son, just as they honor the Father." That sure gets my attention.

And lastly, Jesus warns us in Mark 4:24 to “Consider carefully what you hear...” Our lives are shaped by so many things, by so many influences. What if the influences that have shaped my life turn out to be wrong? What if I’ve been misguided?

I believe that we all need someone who serves as a true compass to lead us to what is true, what is accurate, and what is wise. I contend that Jesus is that compass.