Consequences Of Neglect

In this bulletin we want to look at some consequences of being neglectful towards God. Let us first look at the definition of the word neglect: "To fail to carry out an expected or required action through carelessness or by intention. The state of being lax, inattentive, or indifferent."

Because of neglect, man soon forgets God. The Lord through Jeremiah said, "Can a maid forget her ornaments, or a bride her attire? Yet my people have forgotten me days without number." Again in Jeremiah 18:15, God declares, "Because my people hath forgotten me, they have burned incense to vanity, and they have caused them to stumble in their ways from the ancient paths, to walk in paths, in a way not cast up."

When we neglect Bible study, we are neglecting God's command to "study" His Word (2 Timothy 2:15) and as a result we will forget what we have learned; i.e., "use it or lose it". God warns us in Hosea 4:6, "My people are destroyed (cut off) for lack of knowledge." It is God's desire that all men are saved and will come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Tim. 2:4).

Neglect prevents spiritual growth (Hebrews 5:12-13; 1 Peter 2:2). Forgetting God and Bible study will cause regret. Neglecting to study God's Word will cause one to eventually disobey or outright reject God, be lost eternally, and in the end will produce anguish that will last for eternity (Matthew 22:13; Matthew 24:51; Matthew 25:13; 2 Peter 2:17; Jude 13). Our neglect in studying and applying God's Word influences others to do likewise (i.e., our children, spouse, members of the Lord's church) and also contributes to others outside the body of Christ to remain lost.

Neglect will cause us to lose our soul. In Hebrews 2:2-3, this point is emphasized, "For if the word spoken by angels was steadfast; and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward; How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation...." The point is that we will not escape God's wrath and punishment (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9).

In conclusion let's ask ourselves the following questions:

1) Have we been negligent as a parent by not being proper role models and Christian examples before our children?

2) Have we been negligent as a Christian by having opportunities to teach God's word to others but failed to take advantage of those opportunities?

3) Have we been negligent in attending Bible classes and worship services?

4) Have we been negligent in obeying the Lord in any way?

If we have, let's humbly and prayerfully ask our heavenly Father to forgive us (1 John 1:9) and help us to "press on toward the goal unto the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:14). Eric