How often have we sat thinking “If only” thoughts? “If only things were different.” “If only things were easier.” “If only the world would accept God’s way.” “If only I had more time.” “If only I lived in a better place.” “If only. . . .”
Sitting and wondering about life’s varied circumstances and situations can, at times, give rise to discouragement. Such can hamper our effectiveness in serving God’s purposes and hinder our spirit for pressing on. For sure, life has its challenges. The world is not all as God desires it to be. Well, what about ourselves? Though not to excuse, that is the world’s humanness (and ours). However, we must never forget God’s God-ness; His sovereign power and faithfulness to working to full fruition His eternal plan!
Rather than bemoaning any “if only” over which we might have no control, in looking to God, let us instead say, “in spite of” those things we will press on to the glory of God! “In spite of” a world rebelling against God’s Will let us choose to remain faithful to Him as we trust His power to sustain us. “In spite of” the world going its own direction, let us continue surrendering to God’s!
Writing to Christians at Corinth, Paul noted life’s varied realities where we read. . .
“(8) We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; (9) persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; (10) always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies.” (2 Corinthians 4:8-10 ESV)
Yes, there are some harsh realities of life in this realm, but are we — like Paul — considering the whole picture? Paul went on to state. . .
“(16) So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. (17) For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, (18) as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18 ESV)
Where is our focus? Remember that ultimately it is God’s purpose that will stand. (Proverbs 19:21) Let us trust that to be so because it is!
Writing to Christians at Thessalonica, Paul encouraged. . .
“(23) Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (24) He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 ESV)
“In spite of” what might be going on around us, may we press on trusting in the faithfulness of God to continue working on our behalf and ultimately bring us into the eternal glory assured in Christ!
Have a great day KEEPING FAITH IN GOD’ FAITHFULNESS!
Carl
