This question has been asked numerous times by couples within today’s dating circle, showing just how far we have fallen in sin. Moses asked this same question roughly 4,460 years ago, but under completely different circumstances; “Then Moses stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on the LORD’S side? let him come unto me. And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together unto him.” (Exodus 32:26)
Moses had chosen his place years prior. Now others had to decide theirs; “Would they remain at their place, or go to his?” For each man has his own place. Moses could have chosen to remain in royalty in the house of the Pharaoh, but instead he chose to be a servant in the house of God. In Exodus 32 the children of Israel had chosen the house of the Egyptians. Now they must decide whether to remain, or reside in the house of God.
We must make the same choice today. Jesus said of Satan’s place, “Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, intoeverlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels (emphasis mine):” (Mathew 25:41) Satan whispers exotically in our ear, “Your place or mine?” We may think his place is between the sheets with someone we “love” only for a moment of pleasure. We may think his place is a good time at the casinos and tequila bars. We are convinced that it is good and pleasurable, but Jesus said that Satan’s place is in a burning hell, and all who follow him, will certainly go to his place.
I must emphasize that just as the Israelite children had the opportunity to repent, so do we, at least while we are living. Jesus says, “Put your faith in Me and I will take you to my place.” “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.” (John 14:1-4)
Isn’t it amazing that so many people will choose torment in Hell over the presence and companionship of God in Heaven? How many have seen a child that did not want to leave a nightmarish home life, but would still cling to their persecutors? How many have seen a spouse, usually a woman, who would remain in abuse because she thought he would change? How many have seen those who would live in filth and squalor simply because they were used to it? Those in sin are the same way. They eventually get to the point they cannot see or smell the conditions they are living in. The supreme love, beauty and cleanliness of God in Heaven are beyond their imagination.
If you are caught in the quagmire of sin, there is a door out. Jesus said, “I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.” (John 10:9) We can choose to remain where we are which is in the house of sin, or we can choose to be forgiven and have a home in Heaven. Will it be your place or mine? “Who is on the Lord’s side, let him come unto me.” To those who know Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord, it isn’t rocket science. It’s a no brainer.
Grant Phillips