Have you ever had a notice left on your door regarding an attempted delivery? Did the notice say something like: “An attempt was made to deliver a parcel. Another attempt will be made tomorrow. Upon a third unsuccessful attempt this parcel will be returned to sender.” Such a notice leaves you hoping you will connect before that final delivery attempt is made because, if you are like me, you love to get packages.
Notice how Paul described his faith regarding God’s power to deliver. We read. . .
“(8) For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. (9) Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. (10) He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again. (11) You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.” (2 Corinthians 1:8-11 ESV)
Paul had the courage to press on through trials because, even though he was not spared trials, he knew God would deliver him from them. He trusted God to get him through. I have not endured the severity of trials Paul endured, but what trials I have had, I too have found God to be true to His promise to deliver. Going through a particular situation I might wonder when that delivery might come, but would rejoice when it finally came. This is all a necessary part of our growth in faith, and I am thankful for the marvelous example of Paul.
Still, it is a final delivery I am most encouraged by. Paul was also. He kept in focus that ultimate delivery of which God’s promises assured him. That focus aided Paul in pressing on faithful to God’s calling.
Note the following two passages:
“(20) But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, (21) keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.” (Jude 20-21 ESV)
“ (27) And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, (28) so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.” (Hebrews 9:27-28 ESV)
Yes, our God is the God of delivery. He knows how to deliver, what to deliver and the timeliness of each delivery. Praise God for His intent and power to deliver!
Have a great day TRUSTING IN OUR OMNIPOTENT AND ULTIMATE DELIVERER!
Carl
