The psalmist of psalm 119 wrote. . .
“(41) Let your steadfast love come to me, O Lord, your salvation according to your promise; (42) then shall I have an answer for him who taunts me, for I trust in your word.” (Psalm 119:41-42 ESV)
Certainly, life has its challenges, and we may feel great pressure at times and even experience ridicule from those who refuse to duly acknowledge God and His Will! Though the world tries to get us to conform to its standards and ways, are we resisting while remaining open to the transformation God has made possible through Christ? (i.e. Romans 12:1-2; 2 Corinthians 5:17) In view of both the physical and spiritual provision we have received from God and the hope He offers us ought to inspire us to keep pressing on as we recognize the steadfast love He has for us. Trusting His faithfulness to ultimately fulfill His promises provides an answer to give to those who wonder about our faith in God. Acknowledging His great grace and mercy in not treating us as our sins deserve (i.e. Psalm 103:10), we have every reason to feel good about life and the future that is ours with the Lord. Focusing on the assurance we have through the truth of God’s Word and knowing the inseparable love of God (note Romans 8:35-39) provides a good answer to even those who would speak against us.
Remember Paul encouraged. . .
“(31) What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? (32) He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:31-32 ESV)
In view of ill treatment for the faith, Peter urged. . .
“(15) but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,” (1 Peter 3:15 ESV)
Are we prepared to respond by remaining “steadfast and immoveable” (1 Corinthians 15:58) in our faith and service to God while speaking gently and respectfully about the assurance of hope we have in Christ when those occasions arise? May we never lose sight of the genuineness of God’s love being for us as we trust Him to ultimately bring us through life and into the eternity the Lord went to prepare for us!
Have a great day READY TO RESPOND ABOUT OUR CONFIDENT HOPE IN CHRIST!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area. www.porttownsendchurchofchrist.org)
