The More We Know

We can form an opinion about someone when we are first introduced to them. However, our opinion is baseless and probably incorrect. The more that we get to know them, our opinion will probably change and become more positive, or more negative. If we develop a negative perception of someone, it is likely that we will begin to keep our distance. Fortunately, God does not react in the same way.

Psalm 139:1-2 says, “O LORD, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar.” We expect our omniscient God to know all about us, including our thoughts. But the amazing part is that in spite of knowing all about us, He still loves us with an abundant and eternal love.

Immovable Foundation

We have been to the Hanging Rock National Natural Landmark a few times. It is named for a large rock along the Wabash River. The river has eroded much of the lower portion of the rock so that the upper portion actually hangs out over the river. People are not allowed to climb to the top of the rock due to its instability and a desire to conserve this landmark.

I Samuel 2:2 says, “There is none holy like the LORD: for there is none besides you; there is no rock like our God.” As our Rock, Jesus Christ is the solid and firm foundation for life, love, liberty, and salvation. Because He is our Rock, He will not allow us to be moved or shaken from our faith and His grace.

Stumbling in Darkness

This morning, my morning walk took place in darkness, before sunrise. It was difficult to see where I should have gone and where obstacles lay before me. At one point I was showered with water by an active lawn sprinkler that I didn’t see. When I tried to get around that sprinkler, I tripped on a fallen tree branch. We need light to see where we should go and what we should avoid.

Matthew 4:16 says, “the people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light, and for those dwelling in the region and shadow of death, on them a light has dawned.” When we come to Jesus Christ in faith, God’s light reveals the truth to us. Suddenly, we begin to understand things as they really are, as opposed to observing life in darkness. His light directs us in the ways that we should go.

What Am I Smelling?

If you go to the perfume counter of a department store, you can sample the smells of various wonderful fragrances. If you pass a cow pasture, you encounter a smell of a completely different type. Sometimes, we encounter smells that are not readily identifiable.

II Corinthians 2:14-15 says, “But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. for we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.” Memorial Day parades remind us of the sacrifice of brave men and women who gave their all for our freedom. The procession of God’s people remind everyone of God’s sacrifice for us. Oh Father, make us an attractive fragrance for all to come to you and to know you.

Waiting Room

Many diverse thoughts come to us while we are awaiting news in a hospital waiting room. We have thoughts of hope, expecting good news. We have thoughts of fear, suspecting bad news will come. We offer silent prayers for miracles.

Psalm 68:28 says, “Summon your power, O God, the power, O God, by which you have worked for us.” The time between our prayer and God’s answer to our prayer is the time when miracles are born. When circumstances look bleak, God’s power will be demonstrated. God is in the business of amazing reversals, creating good out of what appears to be bad.