Promises, Promises

We rely on the promises of others. The doctor tells us that if we take this medicine or have this procedure done, we will feel better. The mechanic declares what the problem is with our car or appliance, and says if we undertake a certain repair, the problem will be resolved. The politician states what he or she will do if elected, and with great optimism prophesies that our problems will be resolved. However, these and other promises are subject to many other factors that determine whether the promises can be kept or not.

God told the prophet Isaiah, “Remember this and stand firm, recall it to mind, you transgressors, remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.'” (Isaiah 46:8-10) Our God has always been and always will be. He alone can accurately and with certainty declare what will happen and what is to be, because no one and nothing can stop Him from accomplishing all His purpose.

Knit Together in Love

In our world today, it is commonplace to receive criticism and judgment from a variety of sources. The world, it seems, tends to try to bring us down, rather than lift us up. It is so easy to become discouraged. The essence of love, on the other hand, is the desire to love others in a such a way that they are encouraged and full of hope.

In Colossians 2:2 Paul describes the core of his prayers for the saints by saying, “that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ.” We all need encouragement from time to time. Encouragement comes from loving one another and growing in the understanding and knowledge of Jesus Christ. Love lifts us up in uncertain and desperate times. Knowing Jesus blesses our soul so that we know and understand our place in this world and the nature of God’s love and plan for us.

My Thoughts Versus God’s Thoughts

Sometimes, I can speak to myself pretty negatively. When I make a simple mistake, I can criticize my efforts and my execution. When I say something harsh or unkind, I can question my intentions and character. Fortunately, God thinks about me in far different ways and with much different terms. It amazes me that He thinks about me at all, let alone that He thinks about me with love and compassion.

Psalm 40:17 says, “As for me, I am poor and needy, but the Lord takes thought for me. You are my help and my deliverer; do not delay, O my God!” No matter how weak and foolish that we think we are, we can take courage knowing that God is thinking about us and will provide the help that we need. He is thinking about you and me all the time, knowing what we need and making the right moves to give us what we need. He desires the best for each of us. Let us respond to Him in praise, thanksgiving, and love.

Eternal Celebration

People love parties. Parties differ by size, invitees, and what occurs during the parties. Some last a long time, some not so long. Some invitees are important people, some are not. Some parties are meaningful celebrations and others are just gettogethers. Some parties require formal attire, some are casual.

Acts 2:28 says, “You have made known to me the paths of life; you will make me full of gladness with your presence.” The Bible records several instances of Jesus joining in celebrations. Jesus invites us to the best celebration by offering the gifts of salvation and redemption found in trusting in His sacrifice for our sins. This celebration fills us with joy that lasts for eternity. Everyone is invited to this celebration, but only those who trust Jesus will be able to attend.

Pleasing God

The best gifts are those given with thoughtfulness and effort. When we are sensitive to the needs and desires of others, and then, go out of our way to meet those needs, we are demonstrating our love for them. Personal sacrifice seems to be an essential ingredient to possessing and demonstrating love.

Hebrews 13:15-16 says, “Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” Although we are no longer called to make animal sacrifices, two sacrifices are pleasing to God. The first sacrifice is offering praise to God for who He is and what He does. The second sacrifice is doing good works to help other people. These sacrifices demonstrate our love for God and for people.