"You, then, why do you judge your brother?  Or why do you look down on your brother?  For we will all stand before God's judgement seat.  It is written: '"As surely as I live," says the Lord, "every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God."'  So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God."  Romans 14:10-11

I've heard this message a thousand and one times.  I will stand before God and give reason for everything I've ever done...  But this morning it hit me--I will stand before God and give reason for everything I've ever done.  That scares me.

I'll try not to be a Debbie Downer, but I wonder.  How many words and phrases have slipped out of my mouth and caused unnecessary pain?  What clothing have I worn that have caused people to stumble?  How many times has someone needed to talk to me but I decide I have more important things to do?

Too many.  Too many hurtful words, too many inappropriate clothes, too many times I've ignored a human being.  And God will judge me for that.

Now because God is a God of forgiveness and new beginnings, I will not dwell on the past.  What's been done has been done, and dwelling on it will only make things worse.  But I will make it a point not to continue in this way.  God loved me so much He died for me, and He calls me to show that unfailing love to every other person He died for.  Everyone.

I will aim to do this, even though it's hard, because I know that I will stand before God and give reason for everything I've ever done.

My God?

He made the place I temporarily call home.
He knows the cute little birds outside my window.
He sees the lies that can so easily infest my mind.
He understands the science behind this universe.
He listens to the prayers I lift up to Him.
He gives my family shelter no matter what.
He finds a way to penetrate deeply into my soul.
He brings His peace to me wherever I am.
He worries not, for He holds complete control.
He allows the squirrels to hop all over my yard.
He brings me joy through His beautiful world.
He makes me smile with all of His creations.
He holds my hands when I reach up to Him.
He lifts my face when I'm weary and lost.
He shows me His love in the most interesting ways.
He forgives me always and loves me just the same.

Is this the One in whom I believe?
Who is beyond all imagination?
Is this the One whom I serve?
Is this my God?

Yes, yes indeed.
He is so lovely and great.
This One--He is my God.