The Lord is God. Over the ages we have heard and seen His awesome signs and wonders. We have been privy to these in order that we might “know” beyond a shadow of doubt that the Lord is God of all. There is no other above Him…the Lord is God.
Month: December 2016
Galatians 2:5 ” We did not give in to them for a moment…”
Last night our Bible Study was discussing how easily we compromise to the world’s standards. How one small concession only leads to another, and another, until we suddenly find ourselves far from God and the path He has chosen for us. A wonderful analogy was shared by our friend who is employed with a co-worker in a large, cavernous warehouse with many, many fluorescent lights…of which slowly over time, were going out one by one. Neither lady realized it until one day they both exclaimed how dark it was inside! As they toured the building, they discovered there were 18 fluorescent lights out…no wonder it was so murky! Compromise is just as insidious…happening slowly…one acquiescence at a time…until suddenly we too find ourselves in the dark.
Ephesians 1:11 ” In Him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will…”
You are not a mistake. No matter what people tell you, God’s divine Will included you as an important part in this world. He has a unique purpose for your life here on earth…your birth was foreordained by Him…He knew you before you were even conceived. You are not a mistake, but a valuable part of God’s plan.
Isaiah 43: 12-13 ” I have revealed and saved and proclaimed – I, and not some foreign god among you. You are My witnesses, declares the Lord, that I am God. Yes, and from ancient days I am He. No one can deliver out of My hand. When I act, who can reverse it? “
When God moves, no thing or person can change the outcome He has in mind. His sovereignty and power is ever evident as He works miracles…both on the grand scale, and little blessings only known by the recipient. But the most important part of this verse is the concept that God’s work can never be snatched away or revoked… for the Lord is ever in complete control.
Luke 7: 13 ” When the Lord saw her, His heart went out to her and He said, ‘Don’t cry.’ “
Jesus and His Disciples were traveling to a town called Nain, when they came upon a funeral procession of the only son of a widow. Jesus looked on her with compassion, for she had not only lost her only boy, but also her sole means of income. This tenderness towards the woman was prompted perhaps by Jesus remembering His own mother and what she soon would be going through. For Jesus then spoke to the corpse , “Get up!” and the young man sat up and Jesus gave him back to his mother.
II Chronicles 20:17 ” You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you…”
You don’t need to fight those battles alone. You don’t have to stand unaided in front of the enemy of this world defenseless and vulnerable. The Lord tells us very specifically in this scripture what our role should be in battle. We are to stand our ground and commit ourselves to trusting God. We are to hold our ground, not wavering in our belief that God is in control and fighting on our behalf. Finally, we are to watch as the Lord works… giving us the victory.
Luke 6: 27-28 ” But I tell you who hear Me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”
You can’t change how others in the world will react and behave towards you. The only thing you can change is how you respond…and this scripture is very direct in how you should go about it. You should love. Not loving the sin, but loving the sinner. You should bless. This means speaking well of someone even if you don’t agree with their life-style. You should pray. Now this is probably the most important command… for pray changes not only the person you’re praying for, but it changes you.
Psalm 80:3 ” Restore us O God; make Your face shine upon us, that we may be saved.”
Turn us around Lord. Return us to our first love and enable us to know again the joy of our salvation. As it says in Psalm 71:20, “Though You have made me see troubles many and bitter, You will restore my life again.” Refresh us O Lord that we may restore others around us.