The world we live in and the trends we’re experiencing in our country can be quite unsettling. Mass-shootings, wars in the Middle East, blatant sinful practices now being embraced and even thrust upon us, pandemics, and a host of other things. And the media seems to thrive on broadcasting only doom and gloom, which casts a social landscape filled with potholes and insecurity.
So, what is a person to do? How should we view the future?
We honor and serve a God who is faithful and stays true to His word. As David urged, “Give thanks to the Lord of lords: His love endures forever.” (Psalm 136:3) If our security rests firmly in Him, we can be at peace in the midst of the most chaotic circumstances. God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5) And when He makes a promise, He always keeps it.
In a speech to the Israelites, Moses hammered home this point. The previous generation knew that God had promised to give them the land of Canaan, but they refused to believe He could do it for them. They perceived the giants in the land to be greater than God apparently. So, God put them in a “timeout,” wandering in the wilderness for 40 years until that entire unfaithful generation had died out.
As the new generation stood ready to enter the Promised Land, Moses told them, “Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commands.” (Deuteronomy 7:9)
Dear friends, remember we serve a God who is faithful and who doesn’t waver in His commitments. Praise God that His faithfulness does not depend on us or the strength of our faith. Paul reminds us, “What if some did not have faith? Will their lack of faith nullify God’s faithfulness? Not at all!” (Romans 3:3–4a) He will keep every promise.
I love the Lord’s assurance to us in Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
So, despite what’s going on around you, encourage yourself and others with words of assurance from the Lord.
Scripture Reading: Psalm 20:1–9
Personal Application
- It’s easy to let the media and all the negativity get us down and into that mode. Be sure to stay above it all with God’s promises.
- Speak only what will encourage and build up others and refuse to propagate fear and doubt.
Jim Grassi, D. Min.
We cherish any verse in Scripture that reminds us to keep focused and intentional about evangelism and discipleship. “But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5