GPS and Map Apps

We have discarded paper maps and now use GPS and map apps to find our way. We often trust these programs so much that we are not really paying attention to our surroundings. These programs point the way, often with voice instructions, but we are not really impacted until we trust them on the roads we travel.

John 14:6-7 says, “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.'” Jesus is not just good man or good teacher pointing out the way that we should go. He is the way and we know the way through knowing Him. We are not really impacted by Jesus until we trust Him in the course of our daily lives.

Listen Up

When we were growing up, parents, coaches, and teachers would occasionally stop everything and in a firm voice say, “listen up”. Then we knew that we were in trouble or were going to hear some important instructions.

God had a similar encounter with Elijah. Elijah had hidden himself and was feeling sorry for himself. He thought that he alone was bearing God’s work. God sent an earthquake, a strong wind, and then a fire to get Elijah’s attention. But then, God spoke to Elijah in a low whisper.

I Kings 19:12-13 says, “And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper. And when Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. And behold, there came a voice to him and said, ‘What are you doing here, Elijah?'” Why does God often speak to us in a still small voice instead of a thunderous voice? Because He wants us to make the effort to listen to Him that a still small voice requires. Then, He has our attention and can deliver important information to us. We need to develop the habit of listening for God’s still small voice.

Splendor and Majesty

I have traveled to 52 countries and have visited many of their special sites, including temples from many religions. Many temples are efforts to create a special place for the gods of these religions. Some are quite spectacular, including a Buddhist temple in Myanmar and is partially covered in gold. But these grand buildings pale in comparison to the splendor and majesty of the one true God.

Psalm 104:1-2 says, “Bless the Lord, O my soul! O Lord my God, you are very great! you are clothed with splendor and majesty, covering yourself with light as with a garment, stretching out the heavens like a tent.” God has covered Himself with magnificent grandeur, brilliance, and glory; the likes of which we have never seen. Our intentional thoughts regarding His splendor and majesty always lead us to praise His name.

Changing World

It has been said many times that the only thing that does change is that the world will change. As technology advances increase in number and scope, it is difficult to keep abreast of changes. Social media and information hubs ensure that culture changes quickly and is these changes are more widespread. People change. Our attitudes and moods change frequently throughout the day. Hopefully, we are growing, but that is not always true. Where can we find the bedrock of truth that we can count on to never change?

Job 23:13 says, “But he is unchangeable, and who can turn him back? What he desires, that he does.” God’s nature does not change. He is not like us who change with different moods and attitudes from time to time. His promises are true forever. What He purposed and planned in the beginning will be accomplished, because nothing can stand against Him.

His Name

Isaiah 9:6 says, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

This prophecy foretells the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. As Wonderful Counselor, He possesses wisdom beyond human capabilities and makes wise plans. As Mighty God, He possesses all power and authority. As Everlasting Father, He is our benevolent protector. As Prince of Peace, He is the ruler whose reign brings peace.