Footsteps #164

2Cor.4:8-12 continued. Providence had directed the movements of nations, and the tide of human impulse and influence until the world was ripe for the coming of the deliverer. As God had sought our first parents hiding in the Garden, the infinite had now stepped within the bounds of time seeking the lost sheep that was away from the 99; the one world that had strayed into the wilderness of sin and rebellion. He was “God with us,” Emmanuel.  

The entire NT was written in a context of present or impending turmoil. To be a Christian then, was to put your life in danger. The words of the apostles were forged amidst trials both present and anticipated. Being a servant of the living God is not an immunity from tribulation. This is a planet in rebellion, the realm of sin, sickness, and suffering, and we bear our witness as actors in the “theatre of the universe” – put on display in the “arena” Paul tells us. How we live becomes a vindication of the character of God in what is the ancient controversy between Christ & satan. As I reflect on the writings from Isaiah, Jeremiah, David, or Moses, or any other author Old or New Testament, it becomes evident that we must bear our trials as those who have chosen to live by faith in a world that is passing away. “We are moving toward a better country,” is Paul’s summary of life in Hebrews 11 & 12. “Keep your eyes on Jesus who is the author and perfector of your faith.” Keep looking up not around. If you are going through hard times, then just keep going. We are wanderers on our way home. May the gift of heaven be your consolation. May the gift of eternal life in Christ compel you forward until that day when sin shall be no more.  

God is powerful and personal! Stop to hear more than just a whisper from Him today? The Bible is God’s voice speaking to us just as surely, as though we could hear Him with our ears. The word of the living God is not merely spoken, but written.