A Clear Conscience
Is Not Good Enough 

			(Submitted by Ralph M Nygard)
   
		I heard people talk about letting their conscience be their guide. For
		those who are empowered by the Spirit of God, this would not be a bad
		idea.  Although, people without Christ are led by a conscience that is
		controlled by their moral teachings and worldly value system. Even when
		we feel as though we have done no wrong, it is important to remember that
		the Lord is the ultimate judge of our behavior and actions. We spend alot
		of time trying to live up to other people's expectations while we should
		be most concerned about what God thinks about what we are doing.  I know
		many Christians and even pastors that are worried about what people 
		think about them. We should care about our testimony and example that is
		presented to others, but we must remember that if we are following the
		direction and teachings of Christ, it really does not matter if people
		understand or agree with us. It is much more important to please the
		Lord than to please others. 

		What God is concerned about in our lives is our motives for doing good
		things. Many times we do things for God and the church in order that we
		might look good to others. Our Lord knows our motivation and our hearts.
		It is only through a life that is lived to please the Lord can we really
		discover the bountiful blessings of service and sacrifice. Not everyone
		is called to do the same things in order to please the Lord.  What God
		expects out of each of us is faithfulness to the task and gifts that he
		has given to us. Often, I hear people say to me, "Pastor, I'm sure that
		God is going to richly reward you in heaven for all that you do!" 
		Although, I believe that God will reward me for the things that I do for
		Him with a dedicated heart, I also believe that the Lord will not bless
		me with an greater blessings than the faithful Christian who serves
		quietly and without fanfare to less noticeable tasks. There is coming a
		time when every work will be judged by God. May we remember to serve the
		Lord out of a full and grateful heart.