“In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice.” Genesis 22:18
Throughout Scripture we see the evidence of man disobeying God. In the book of Nehemiah, we read about the scribe and priest Ezra preaching a great sermon to the Israelites assembled in the square before the Water Gate. This public exposition of the Scriptures helped kindle a revival that led to some wonderful blessings.
The people needed to be reminded of God’s love and grace, but also His disappointment when we seek a path that is not of His will. We read, “Nevertheless they (the Israelites) were disobedient and rebelled against You, cast Your law behind their backs and killed Your prophets, who testified against them to turn them to Yourself; and they worked great provocations. Therefore, You delivered them into the hand of their enemies, who oppressed them; and in the time of their trouble, when they cried to You, You heard from heaven; and according to Your abundant mercies You gave them deliverers who saved them from the hand of their enemies.” Nehemiah 9:26-27
Aren’t we glad that when Christ ascended to heaven he left his Holy Spirit to guide and direct us? It is comforting to know that we don’t have to “do life on our own” – our Heavenly Father cares enough to prompt us to do the right thing. And during the times when we don’t get our way, but His way, it’s helpful to remember that it is for our own good.
God be with our nation and its leaders to direct our paths as You design. Forgive our disobedience and defiance. Help us be submissive to Your will. Amen
God Said No
“I asked God to take away my habit. God said, No. It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up.
I asked God to make my handicapped child whole. God said, No. His spirit is whole; his body is only temporary.
I asked God to grant me patience. God said, No. Patience is a byproduct of tribulations; it isn’t granted, it is learned.
I asked God to give me happiness. God said, No. I give you blessings; Happiness is up to you. I asked God to spare me pain. God said, No. Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me.
I asked God to make my spirit grow. God said, No. You must grow on your own,
but I will prune you to make you fruitful.
I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life. God said, No. I will give you life, so that you may enjoy all things.
I asked God to help me LOVE others, as much as He loves me.
God said…Ahhhh, finally you have the idea.”
Personal Application:
- The apostle John reminds us “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me (Jesus).” John 14:1 How can you apply that verse to your current circumstances?
- If God is our refuge and fortress (Ps. 91) then how can you abide in Him with all the things that are bothering, you?
- Our Year-end Letter is in the mail or coming your way thru the internet. Please take the time to read it. Some exciting news is coming your way.
Jim Grassi, D. Min.