faith

He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

As we went to the polls on Tuesday, it was a given that not everyone would be pleased with the results. We had heard that this election could turn the nation in a far left spiral or maintain status quo a little longer. Which would it be? And now we know.

If I recall, just two short years ago we were hearing the same concerns. We were told then that the results of that presidential election would get the nation back on track or continue the slide down a very slippery slope. Both sides of the aisle believed the opposing side projected a dark path toward a dictatorship of sorts. We’ve heard similar language in this mid-term cycle.

But I have to say that, regardless of the election results, no one really walks away a winner. No one walks away unscathed. There is so much unrest and discord and distrust in political leaders today that election results only resolve one issue. Which party gets to be in charge for a few years.

Politicians make many promises while they’re on the campaign trail just to break them once elected. Not always, but many times. An R or D after a candidate’s name on a ballot doesn’t guarantee anything. We can’t place our hope in any one candidate. They will fail us. Miserably. Many people are greatly disillusioned and disappointed with both parties.

Both sides believe their side is right. Each believes their plans are better and they should be in control. Each side wants to set the tone of this nation for the next two years. Each wants to punish the leaders of the opposing party. One party never seems to get their act together to do just that thing, while the other party goes for the jugular before they’re even in charge. One party believes this country is in for a rough ride these next two years, and the other party is gloating and calling for payback.

And just for the record. There is evil and corruption in both political parties. There is abuse of power and authority, and there are under the table deals. Meetings unrecorded and under cover occur and most of us are unaware. Unqualified and unvetted people are placed in positions they should never be in. Some walk through doors that have been opened wide for them, while others break down the door and call it fair.

Many people voted in person. Many others voted early. And yet many opted out of their responsibility. Some people think their one little vote won’t do any good, so they refuse to vote. I’ve read that if every Christian voted, this country would be in an entirely different situation right now. Think about that.

What we have to know is that God is in control. He knows every vote that was counted. He knows of the depth of corruption in our country’s political system. He knows if election fraud is a widespread issue or not. He knows the hearts and plans of those in office and those newly elected. He knows the minutest details of the next two years and exactly what will play out.

If he wanted to, God could remove all evil with just the blink of an eye. He could snuff out all corruption with the flick of a wrist. He could allow only truth to be told and shutter all lies by just thinking about it. But he doesn’t. He gives us freedom to choose how we live.

God reigns over the nations; God sits on his holy throne. Psalm 47:8

If you’ve read your history books, you have to know there is a pattern of decline for all great nations. It’s just the way it is in this world. No country with super power status stays in that position forever.

Our great nation has had a great run of successes. Two hundred and fifty years is nothing to be ashamed of. But we’ve become complacent as a nation, and we assume things will continue to go well for us because we’re the most powerful nation on earth. As we can see, we’ve been sadly mistaken. We’ve forgotten to keep God as the head of state. We’ve replaced him with false gods. So, these election results are no surprise. This is what happens when God is left out of our society. When God is pushed away, he won’t demand his way.

What does all of this have to do with faith in God? What does this have to do with Christianity and the hope of the cross of Christ? Where is God when the nations falter? Why doesn’t he rescue us from the upheaval that poor political decisions cause? Well, the sun came up today. The world is still turning. God is still in charge, and he knows what’s going on.

If you’ve read the book of Daniel, you know that the nation of Israel (God’s chosen people) suffered a devastating loss. It was a political defeat of the ages when the Babylonian army besieged the city, and King Jehoiachin relinquished power to the enemy. The best of the best people of Israel were led away as captives and were sent to live in exile in Babylon. But while they were living there, the prophet Jeremiah instructed them to enjoy the wealth of the nation where they were exiled. Get married and raise families. Live your best life even under exile conditions. And he commanded them to pray for their new homeland, because the success of their homeland was their own success.

And that’s what we must do today. We must pray for the success of our elected leaders. We must pray for the success of our nation. Because in the success of our nation and our leaders, we will find success. It doesn’t mean we have to applaud and agree with their decisions. It doesn’t mean we have to fall in line with their agenda. But we must pray for the best for this nation. And we must pray that godly advisors surround them in their work.

But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare. Jeremiah 29:7

As today’s culture continues to morally and ethically slide down the slippery slope of radicalism, Christians today must continue to put on the full armor of God each day. We must be strong and courageous in living out our faith by never compromising truth. We know that the kingdom of Jesus Christ is unshakeable and will not fall, regardless of how shaky our world may be.

It’s time to be reminded that God is in control of the universe. He always has been, and he always will be. This is his world. And even if this election causes this country to descend into chaos, we believers in the God who reigns supreme over all the earth know that he is with us. He didn’t promise us an easy, carefree life. In fact, quite the opposite. He said we will be persecuted because of our faith. And we have to stop and wonder if that time could soon be upon us. We must be prepared to suffer when those who oppose biblical truths hold political power.

It’s time to dig deep into the Word of God and firm up our faith. It’s time to study to show ourselves approved by the God we say we serve. Regardless of which party is in power, now is the time for all people to call on God. We must go about our days doing the work set before us, all the while trusting God and his providence. He is with us and he is for us. Let’s not be against him.

What we must take from this election cycle is this. God knows the future. He humbles the proud; even elected officials. And it may just be our time to experience a bit of God’s judgment as our country continues to push him away. It is time for believers to search for God’s peace when earthly peace is unattainable. We could be entering a season of turmoil like we’ve never experienced before.

God is still sovereign, and he rules the nations. Not a single thing misses his eye. And we can fully trust him and his timing. May his name be praised.

For kingship belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations. Psalm 22:28

Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice, and let them say among the nations, “The Lord reigns!” 1 Chronicles 16:31

The Lord has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all. Psalm 103:19

The Story of God is True

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

It was Wednesday night, and I sat in the sanctuary beside one of my Awana kids. It was lesson time for the Sparks (K-2). Our leader was telling the story of salvation and Jesus dying on the cross for our sins. Suddenly, this first grader turned to me and asked in an almost startled voice, “Is the story of God true?” Yes. Yes, Graham, the story of God is true. You mean it’s real? Yes, it real. It’s not fiction? No, it really happened. He was amazed and excited. Apparently, the reality of what he was hearing had just sunk in for the very first time. Hopefully, all the puzzle pieces of the Bible verses and lessons he learned in Awana last year are coming together. And, hopefully soon, he’ll make the decision to become a Christ follower.

This exchange reminded me of the necessity of teaching Bible verses and stories to children. Kids love stories, and they love listening to them over and over. And when they learn that the story really happened. That it’s true. It suddenly takes on a whole new dimension. It takes on real meaning. And they will relive that story in their minds time and time again. And they will tell others.

When kids never have an opportunity to read the Bible or to even hear the Bible stories, they are missing out on so much history and lifelong lessons on morality, ethics, obedience, sin and salvation. They don’t know that God created the earth and all plants and animals and humans in seven days. They don’t know how Daniel survived an overnight stay in a den of lions, because people who hated him wanted him out of their lives. They don’t know that David killed a giant named Goliath with a stone and slingshot. They don’t know that Noah built an ark and put two of every kind of animal in it, along with his family, because a flood was going to cover the entire earth for many, many days. They don’t know that Jonah disobeyed God and was swallowed by a whale, just to be spewed out of his mouth three days later. They don’t know that God’s only son, Jesus, was born to a virgin named Mary. They don’t know that Jesus was put on trial, nailed to a cross and died in order to forgive our sins when we repented. They don’t that Jesus chose twelve men to be his disciples and spread the good news of salvation. They don’t know that Jesus is coming to gather his followers so they can spend eternity together. And there are so many more stories the kids will never know. Stories like the Sermon on the Mount. The miracles of Jesus. Saul’s conversion and missionary trips. John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus’ ministry. They don’t know about all the prophecies that have been told, and that many have come to pass and the remaining ones will in good time. They don’t know what they’re missing.

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. Deuteronomy 6:5-7

We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done. He established a testimony in Jacob and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers to teach to their children, that the next generation might know them, the children yet unborn, and arise and tell them to their children, so that they should set their hope in God and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments. Psalm 78:4-7

How will kids know that they need to repent of their sins if no one tells them? How will they ever hear the Good News of salvation if they’re never in church or with followers of Christ? Who will tell them if their parents choose not to attend church or read the Bible to them? How will they know? And how will they pass down the need for salvation to their own children if they don’t hear it first?

How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” Romans 10:14-15

And we wonder why the world is so topsy turvy. We wonder why today’s culture believes dangerous ideologies. We wonder why people are resorting to horrible crimes and violent tendencies. We wonder why there is an abundance of evil and corruption in the world. We wonder why people don’t know the story of God. Perhaps they’ve heard it and rejected it. Perhaps no one has ever shared the Good News with them. Perhaps it’s time to do so. Perhaps it’s time to wake up and move beyond the fear of being rejected by our unbelieving peers and family members and present the Truth to them before it’s too late. Perhaps it’s time for Christians to get out of their comfort zone and start sharing the Good News.

So yes, Graham. The story of God is true. It actually happened. All of it. And you can choose to accept it or not. It’s your choice. But know this. If you reject it, you will not spend eternity with God. But if you accept Jesus Christ as your Savior and follow him, you will be with him for eternity. So choose wisely.

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:14-15

A Personal Holiness

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

I took a political science class when I was in college. One of the assignments was to post a political sign in a public place for the upcoming election. I don’t remember all the details, but it might have been a school board election. I just knew that I didn’t want to participate in the assignment, but it was part of the grade for the class. My sister took her sign to a small grocery store, and I took mine to the post office. How was I to know post offices can’t publicly support candidates? So, I did what any good American would do. I taped the sign to my car window. That way anyone I drove by could see the sign. Genius!

This assignment was one I wasn’t interested in doing. At the time, I had absolutely no interest in politics or political candidates. I only fulfilled the assignment so I could honestly report back that I did it. I didn’t care how well or accurately I had done the job, I just knew that it had to be done. I completed the assignment and passed the class. I did as little as was needed to fulfill my obligation.

I sometimes have the same attitude about my morning walk. I don’t always want to take the walk, but I know that it’s best if I do it. I don’t expect to be graded for my effort, and no one is holding me accountable for my walking. I just know it’s a healthy activity I should do. I had recently sloughed off because I caught a cold. So, I took some time off from my morning routine. And even though it’s been five weeks since I was sick, I haven’t gotten back in the habit of walking. Honestly, I haven’t really missed it, but I know I need to put my walking shoes back on.

On Monday morning this week, whether I wanted to or not, I headed out the door. My route only takes about twenty minutes, and it’s a good habit to have. Why do I try to avoid it? So, I found myself out walking two mornings this week. I’ve found an excuse not to do it the rest of the week, so now I’m working hard to change my attitude about the “interruption” to my morning. It’s one small activity I can check off my daily to-do list, and it isn’t even painful. Why do I tell myself that it’s a bother when it’s actually good for me? Laziness can be such a killer.

But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy. 1 Peter 1:15-16

I wonder. How many Christians actually prioritize their walk with Christ? Do we think the relationship will just grow on its own? Do we make sure to avoid sin? Have we Christians become lazy when it comes to living a holy life? Do we have a good attitude about exhibiting godliness to those we encounter on a daily basis? Do we avoid sin? Or, do we think others will understand if we have a bad reputation, or if we make it a regular habit of speaking ill of others while also claiming to be a Christian? What happens when someone we trust finds us involved in an activity that we both know dishonors God? Are we concerned when our selfish actions speak louder than our verbal commitment to God? Do we who call ourselves Christians actually live a holy life?

What exactly is holy living, anyway? What is holiness?

A holy life is one that is lived separate from the secular life. It’s a life lived in agreement with biblical teaching. It’s living our life in God’s will, instead of just barely fitting God into our life or keeping him on the fringes. We deliberately separate ourselves from sin.

And the sad thing is that perhaps many Christians don’t even care about holiness. They don’t care that their behavior isn’t any different from someone who doesn’t claim to be a follower of Christ. But when we say we are Christians, what sets us apart from those who aren’t? There has to be a difference. Otherwise, what’s the point of Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross? It wasn’t for nothing. And it certainly wasn’t for us to celebrate the Easter bunny. Holiness is an essential part of living a growing Christian life.

It may be easy to slough off on developing a deep walk with Christ and wholeheartedly following him. Any relationship takes work, and it isn’t always easy. There are hills and there are valleys. But the long, slow walk of obedience is the path of peace and deep fulfillment. Holy living isn’t for the weak. Some will say it means sacrificing what we desire for what God wants for us. And yes. There are sacrifices. How can it be called bad when someone actually relinquishes their selfish pride or stops lying?

And here’s the kicker. Jesus expects obedience out of his followers. How can we call ourselves a follower if we’re not actually following his teachings? It’s not a one-sided relationship. In order to live without spot or blemish as it says in the book of Ephesians, we need to figure out the difference between pure and impure motives and actions. That’s holy living in a nutshell. We must pursue a holy life every single day until Jesus calls us home.

He did this to present her to himself as a glorious church without a spot or wrinkle or any other blemish. Instead, she will be holy and without fault. Ephesians 5:27

In my college days, I completed my assignment, not because I was interested in politics but so I would receive a passing grade. And I walk now because it’s a healthy step in aging gracefully. It’s good for me. But living a holy life is not a recommendation by God. It’s a requirement.

Put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24

When Your Heart Skips A Beat

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

What crosses your mind when someone brings up their faith or Christianity or their church service last Sunday? Are you all in for the conversation, or do you try to duck out and spare yourself some grief? Does your heart skip a beat when someone mentions that God is good or that He has answered their prayer in a great and mighty way? Do you want to be swallowed up by the earth at that very moment because you’re uncomfortable with the subject? Or would you be genuinely interested in what they had to say?

Many people, Christian or not, try to avoid conversations about the Bible or church or faith in general. Perhaps they think they’re not educated enough to speak about those issues. Perhaps they don’t have faith and don’t want others to know. Perhaps they are a believer, but don’t want others to know. Some people just want to avoid the topic, no matter what.

If you had been alive during the time of Jesus’ birth, you would have been in one of two camps. Either your heart skipped a beat when you heard the news, because you knew this long awaited event was the best thing that had ever happened to mankind. You knew this was the event that had been promised so many years ago and it had finally happened in your lifetime. This was incredible news! Or. Your heart skipped a beat because you were enraged that someone, and of all things a tiny baby, was said to be the Savior of the world. You knew you would fight this announcement at all costs. Because it just couldn’t be true. How could it be? A baby is no savior. Who cares about the stories of the star in the east and the prophesies of a Messiah. This baby is nothing special, and you were determined to squelch all rumors that he was.

And here’s what we know today. The good news of Jesus Christ’s birth, death and resurrection still causes a mixed reaction. Multitudes experience a life-changing event when they repent of their sins and choose to follow Him. They know their lives have been changed, and they want to let others know. On the other hand, there are many others who reject the good news of salvation and want nothing to do with it. They reject it outright and oppose it as if it were the kiss of death. They will oppose all talk of the subject.

And here’s what we also know. We each have a choice as to how we will handle the news of Christ’s offer of salvation. We can accept it and follow the path to eternal life with him. Or we can reject it, which means we will wallow in sin. And living a sinful life will look different for everyone. The life of someone not following Christ may be very successful and full of material possessions. They may achieve at the highest level of corporate success. They may be able to afford all the latest gadgets and toys and vacations and pleasures that money can afford. But they reject any discussion about the Savior of the world. Success in this life doesn’t mean that someone isn’t a follower of Christ, but it also doesn’t mean they are. And just because someone doesn’t live a life that is questionable doesn’t mean they are living forgiven.

Choose this day whom you will serve. Joshua 24:15

God isn’t afraid of our choices, but he knows the end result of what we choose. After all, he allows his angels to choose and a host of them chose unwisely. And he’s not afraid of skepticism or doubt. That’s normal in life. But when we choose to challenge him, we need to know exactly who and what we’re dealing with. When we choose to ignore him, we need to know the full extent of the choice we’ve just made.

I want to be careful when I say this, but the rejection of Christ is an acceptance of the evil one himself, Satan. Many who reject Christ may say they’re not Satan lovers, but they’ve rejected Christ. So who do they think they’re following if it’s not Christ? I know. It’s an uncomfortable thought, and it may sound harsh. Most people who don’t accept the teachings of Christ don’t claim to be Satan worshippers. They don’t claim to follow the leader of the underworld. They may believe they are self-made and self-fulfilled and don’t need God in their lives. They don’t know the capabilities of the one who thought he could out-God God. They don’t know that he lost in his quest of self importance and pride to de-throne God. And that’s exactly why he’s no longer living in the presence of God Almighty. They don’t know that God threw him and his host of angels out of heaven and has doomed them to an eternity in hell. His name was Lucifer, and he was once a high ranking angel. Now he’s known as Satan and is the leader of darkness.

Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels fought back, but he was defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death. Revelation 12:7-11

How you are fallen from heaven, O shining star, son of the morning! You have been thrown down to the earth, you who destroyed the nations of the world. For you said to yourself, ‘I will ascend to heaven and set my throne above God’s stars. I will preside on the mountain of the gods far away in the north. I will climb to the highest heavens and be like the Most High.’ Instead, you will be brought down to the place of the dead, down to its lowest depths. Isaiah 14:12-15

Many call themselves Christians, yet they haven’t repented of their sins. But Christianity is a humbling act of confession and turning from all sinful behavior. It’s a commitment to living a life in fellowship with Jesus Christ. There is no middle ground. If we haven’t chosen Christ as our Lord and Savior, he will not recognize us on the day we stand in judgment before him.

Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.’ Matthew 25:41

In Joshua 24:14-28, Joshua implored the Israelites to choose to serve the Lord, and they promised they would. He knew exactly what punishment would lie ahead for them if they turned their backs on God. He told them plainly that he and his household would serve the Lord, and they must choose who they would serve. Just as Joshua chose and all of Israel had to choose, so does everyone else even today. Who do you choose to follow? One more question. When you’re face to face with God on judgment day, will your heart skip a beat because you’re being ushered into his presence for eternity or because you’re not?

For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. Romans 10:13

Defending Your Faith

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

A few weeks ago, a young man was baptized at our church. Our church doesn’t schedule one or two baptisms a year. They baptize someone as soon as the person says they’re ready after they’ve accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. No waiting. Let’s just get it done. And this baptism was very special. Oh. Our pastor made sure to remind the congregation that every baptism is special, but this one pretty much takes the cake. Everyone who is baptized at our church gives their testimony before they go under the water, so everyone can hear their salvation story. It isn’t an act they’re playing in front of a group of people. Their salvation is the real deal.

So. You ask. What made the baptism of this young man so special? I may not have his entire story correct, but here’s what I know. This young man came to this country within the last year from an Islamic country. He grew up in a strict Muslim home. He adopted his family’s faith, of course. He taught the beliefs. He sang in their services. He proselytized. He was a firm believer of Islam. And then he came to this country. At some point, he started to have doubts. He realized he no longer believed what he had been taught. So he sought out people of other faiths, all the way from atheism to Christianity. And he soon realized that deep down Christianity was the true faith he should follow.

After wrestling with God for awhile, he surrendered his life to his Creator and Heavenly Father. Oh. He knew the personal cost. If he were to ever return to his home country, he would lose his life. He realizes he may never be allowed to return. And he will not be able to see some of his family members ever again. But he has made the decision to follow Christ, at all costs. And so, he was baptized.

Yes. There is a price to pay for our faith. For those of us born in a country that celebrates religious freedom, we don’t give our religious freedom a second thought. But to someone such as this young man, he knows the price he would pay if he were to return home. He would pay with his life.

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

Then just a few days ago, I was listening to the Relatable podcast where Allie Beth Stuckey interviewed Shahriq Khan, who is an ex-Muslim. This young man was raised in this country by very devout Muslim parents. He too became very devout in his faith and loved to share it with others. He would challenge Christians about their faith and found that they couldn’t really defend their beliefs. But during college, he began to have doubts. He gave up his faith and wasn’t sure what he believed. Like the young man at my church, he considered atheism and then he looked at Christianity. When he started searching for the truth, friends suggested he read the Bible. As he read and studied the Word of God, he realized Christianity was the truth. The way, the truth and the life. When he compared the stories in the Bible to the stories in the Quran, he found that the Quranic stories weren’t factual. He had been taught lies. He became a Christian and eventually began sharing his newfound faith.

And here’s the kicker. Here’s where we followers of Christ can learn from this young man. Since he knew the ins and outs of the Islamic faith, as a Christian he knew how to debate his Muslim family and friends. He knew the strengths and weaknesses of the Muslim faith. He knew that, as a Muslim, he had been taught how to counter the arguments Christians made against Islam. As a Muslim he learned how to defend his Muslim faith, and he did so proudly. But as a Christian, he then had to flip the switch and argue the strengths of the biblical gospel compared to the defects of the Islamic teachings. So he dug deep into God’s Word to prepare himself to counter the teachings of Islam.

This young man has started a ministry that teaches Christians how to dismantle the untruths of the Islamic faith when talking to Muslims. And this ministry is helping to turn Muslims to Christ. All because faithful Christians shared the Good News of salvation with a lost Muslim, who is now sharing his Christian faith with other Muslims. His goal is not to push Muslims out of our country. He wants to win them to Christ. We should join the fight with him and learn to share our faith with not only Muslims but with anyone who doesn’t know Christ.

Believers today have a responsibility to share their biblical faith with those who don’t believe. We can’t just go to church and then do nothing. We must study God’s Word and prepare and train to share the Good News that we’ve been taught. We must know how to refute the lies that Satan has planted in the hearts of so many who are lost. We can’t wait for the next person to speak up. We must do our part in sharing the Gospel.

We all have a mission field that we are serving. Do you recognize those in your sphere of influence who are spiritually lost? Do you know and understand your faith well enough to defend it to someone who believes differently? Are you willing to learn how to defend your faith? We only have so much time to reach the lost. If each of us who call ourselves believers aren’t doing our part, who will? How will the lost be won to Christ if Christians don’t share the Good News?

But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? Romans 10:14

Speaking Out Biblically on Cultural Norms

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The times we’re living in. They sure are crazy. I remember when it was acceptable to be a Christian and speak of it publicly without worry. I remember when it was acceptable to be conservative and speak of it without threat of losing friendships. I remember when it was acceptable to speak of politics with someone from the opposing party without being canceled. I remember when it was acceptable to speak out publicly about what you believed and what you opposed without fear of being ridiculed, insulted or fired from your job. But things are different now.

I’ve lived long enough to see when the tide started turning. And the noticeable turn seems to have begun with a presidential election that I won’t elaborate on. And then a global pandemic occurred, which caused an even quicker plummet into an abyss that we haven’t recovered from culturally or politically. Since that time, the cultural and political scenes have continued to disintegrate. And the church is caught somewhere in the middle of this conundrum.

Some may call it empathy when others agree or accept alternative lifestyles or choices. They call it loving others when we tamp down the resistance of some who don’t “seem to understand” the decisions by those who call themselves Christians but live otherwise. It’s been made clear that we must not resist. We must accept and agree with the culture that has moved directly in opposition to what Jesus taught. But when something is morally wrong, shouldn’t we as Christians oppose it? When something is ethically wrong, shouldn’t we say so? Or should we just clam up and watch?

Through this mess of a civilization we’re in, I’ve learned where I stand on many important issues. I’m still learning, but I’ve realized that as a Bible believing Christian, I need to make sure my stance is biblically sound. Because it would be very easy to side with the group that shouts the loudest and the longest. It would be easy to side with those who seek equity and social justice for all. It would be easy to side with those who announce their pronouns and acceptance of every alphabet group that shouts to be heard. But keep reading, and I’ll tell you why I don’t.

Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. Ephesians 4:15

I believe the Bible is the inerrant, inspired Word of God. I have chosen to use it as my guide to life. The Bible doesn’t spell out instructions or information about all of the issues we face today. There are many black and white areas we navigate, but there are many gray areas where we must study and pray for God’s wisdom. Biblical truth will lead us to a life that loves others and speaks the truth, even when it’s inconvenient or unwanted or unaccepted.

I am pro-life. I believe that in every stage of pregnancy, the new life is a human life. I believe everyone is made in the image of God. The life of the unborn baby should not be ended even if it was the result of someone else’s crime. A suspected or confirmed disability or health issue of the unborn should not be the reason a pregnancy is terminated. Abortion is not healthcare; it is the worst violation of the most basic human rights. The right to life. Someone dies as a result of every successful abortion. It is the termination of a life created by God. It is murder.

You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Psalms 139:13

There are six things the Lord hates— no, seven things he detests: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that kill the innocent, a heart that plots evil, feet that race to do wrong, a false witness who pours out lies, a person who sows discord in a family. Proverbs 6:16-19

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Proverbs 31:8

The Bible tells us that God created man and woman, male and female. It does not speak one word about additional genders. Nowhere in the Word of God is there any mention of humans having the ability to move from male to female or vice versa. We are what we are. And when someone chooses to identify as the opposite sex, they are in contradiction to God’s will. No surgery or medication can change their God-given DNA. There is a false belief being taught today that says we can do as we please to our bodies without consequence, but the Bible teaches us to reject that teaching.

As a follower of Christ who has a biblical worldview, I cannot use someone’s preferred pronouns if they don’t align with the person’s created body. I cannot affirm what I know is not true. To do so would be to lie. Loving someone means hard truths are kindly spoken, even when I may be rejected for my beliefs.

So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27

Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself. 1 Corinthians 6:19

We’re told today that truth is relative. We can create our “truth” to be whatever makes us happy. But God’s Word is the ultimate truth, and if the truth we create doesn’t align with biblical truth, it isn’t the truth. So when someone says that love is love, and that a romantic love relationship with someone of the same sex is biblical, as Christians we can’t agree. We can’t applaud the relationship as being Christian. Regardless of what we’re told by today’s culture, a biblical love relationship is found only between one man and one woman. God’s Word is clear even if we disagree with it. The truth doesn’t change just because we don’t believe it.

It is true that some people have a same sex attraction, but the Bible says that acting on that attraction is sinful. Just as it is sinful to engage in gluttony or addictive behavior, the same truth stands for same sex relationships. God calls us to sacrifice our wants in order to be obedient to his will and his calling for our lives. We can resist the temptations we face, regardless of what they are, if we stand fully on God’s Word, spend time in prayer and make ourselves accountable to others who are biblically grounded and trustworthy.

Do not practice homosexuality, having sex with another man as with a woman. It is a detestable sin. Leviticus 18:22

We can’t really tell how crooked our thinking is until we line it up with the straight edge of Scripture. ~Elisabeth Elliot

You can agree with me or not. That’s your choice. I’m not always right, and I certainly don’t know everything. I want to be able to stand before God on judgment day with a clear but trembling heart, knowing I’ve lived my life in accordance with the teachings of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I pray you do the same.

For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes. Romans 1:16

The Cost of Rescue

~ mercyfortheday ~ 1 Comment

I’m sure you’ve heard the news of the spectacular rescue of a member of the Air Force. He had been missing for over twenty four hours after his fighter jet was shot down. Oh. The pilot of the two-man aircraft had also ejected from the aircraft and had been found alive earlier. I’ve read that being ejected from a fighter jet is no small feat in itself. It’s an act that can’t be practiced, and it’s sometimes fatal. It happens in real time, and some soldiers end up losing extremities because of the extreme g-forces at play.

I wonder. What was it like to find yourself behind enemy lines knowing full well you could be captured at any moment? This second airman had to perform some evasive maneuvers in order to hide and survive. Oh sure. He had been trained in advanced survival skills. And to top it all off. He had been injured in the process of ejecting from the aircraft, making it even more difficult to evade the ever advancing enemy operatives. I heard he was bleeding profusely. But he was able to stop the flow of blood, and he did evade capture. And he’s lived to tell about it. What a story that will be if he ever goes public with the details.

A deception campaign was enacted in order to fool the enemy. Our military did not, under any circumstances, want this injured airman to be discovered and captured by the enemy. One hundred men were sent in to rescue him. It was a very historic rescue, after his jet went down deep in Iranian territory. The decision was made to do whatever was necessary to bring this man home. Our military doesn’t leave even one man behind. In broad daylight and facing heavy enemy fire for seven hours, the flight crews took risks beyond measure. They faced gunfire from a very close range. Yet. No American was injured in this firefight.

A massive operation was mobilized, involving one hundred and fifty aircraft. Many of these planes were used to confuse the enemy into thinking this lone lost airman was in a different area. The planes flew to multiple sites as a ruse to confuse the enemy. And it worked. 

This injured airman was successfully discovered after he had been stranded in an area teeming with the enemy. He followed his training and climbed toward a higher altitude in order to evade capture. He had been taught to move as far away as possible from the crash site, so the enemy couldn’t locate him. That’s exactly what he did.

Because of the wet sand where the additional aircraft had landed, it was possible that the huge machinery wouldn’t be able to lift off. The contingency plan brought in lighter, faster aircraft to carry the badly injured airman and all one hundred of his rescuers to safety. Then the original aircraft were immediately and completely destroyed. Three helicopters had been placed unassembled in the large aircraft, and were rebuilt in a matter of a few minutes. They were used extensively in the rescue plan.

What a massive undertaking this was to get this one man to safety. No expense was spared. It was all hands on deck, and everyone involved was ready to go at a moment’s notice. It’s this precise training and skill that makes our military the sharpest and best in the world.

And here’s the thing. Our military knew exactly who the enemy was. They knew what the enemy was capable of. We’ve seen the horrors that have played out in the streets of that country and in other zones deemed unsafe to global workers for decades. It was determined that it was time to act to stabilize the country. And in doing so, a great feat of heroism was displayed by the rescue team. This one man will be forever indebted to them for saving his life.

For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost. Luke 19:10

The rescue of this lone man was very involved and was planned down to the exact detail. Nothing could go wrong in the effort to save him. The intricate steps to extricate one downed soldier from the enemy’s snares are impressive. It’s a fascinating, yet alarming story of precision. We may think it’s overkill. But imagine the one being rescued. What would they have faced if left to their own devices? What would their enemy have done to them?

If our military would go to such lengths to rescue one lone man, imagine how God works in the rescue of our souls. The rescue and redemption of all mankind is very intense, and it has eternal consequences. Oh. God doesn’t use military aircraft to rescue lost souls. He sent his only Son who was reigning safely in heaven with him to earth to live a fully human life for thirty three years. And then he sacrificed this Son for everyone. And by everyone, I mean those no longer living, those currently living, and those yet to be born. EVERYONE. His Son, Jesus, was crucified on a cross and then laid in a tomb. But miracle of all miracles, he rose from the dead on the third day.

Jesus came to seek and to save the lost, and his rescue plan is out of this world. And he uses godly people in his redemption plan to rescue the lost. He uses multiple prayer warriors. He uses believers who plant the seed, and those who till the soil. Those who water. And those who harvest. It’s a group effort where everyone involved plays a part. But here’s the thing. No one knows exactly who else is involved in the mission for each individual soul. That information is top secret and kept in God’s control. He works to make it happen, and we’re the instruments in his overall plan.

And here’s another thing. We all need rescued from our sins. Not one of us is perfect. Not one of us is without sin. Each of us is born with a sinful nature, and we fall short of God’s plan for our lives.

Just as the airman was trained for survival, so too must we be trained for not only surviving our Christian walk, but we must learn to thrive and grow in our knowledge and faith in Jesus Christ. We must practice our faith on a daily basis. We are called to read God’s Word and to spend time in prayer. We are called to spend time with other believers and to attend church. We are called to share out of our wealth to help others find the same saving relationship with Jesus Christ. And we are called to be active workers for the kingdom of God. We not only need to be initially rescued from our sins, but we then need to help rescue others. We who have been rescued are now part of someone else’s rescue plan.

After all, who is Apollos? Who is Paul? We are only God’s servants through whom you believed the Good News. Each of us did the work the Lord gave us. I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. It’s not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What’s important is that God makes the seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work. For we are both God’s workers. And you are God’s field. You are God’s building. 1 Corinthians 3:5-9

Oh. It’s easy to identify the enemy who was pursuing the downed airman. And just as the enemy was in hot pursuit to capture this lost man, so too is the enemy of our soul earnestly searching for a way to capture the hearts of all mankind. For some, it’s an easy capture. He has them at hello. But there are others who have been thoroughly trained to avoid the devilish ways of the enemy, and they hold off all his attempts to turn them to the dark side. We must know our enemy and name him, and then fight with all our might to evade capture.

Let’s ask the hard question. Why would someone set aside everyone else to go rescue one lost person? Just why? Is it worth it? Oh. I’ve heard the argument about the waste of time looking for the one when time could have been more wisely spent helping others. But what if you’re that one lost person who is deep down looking to be found by the Savior of the world? Wouldn’t you want him to search diligently, never stopping to find you? If you were the downed pilot, wouldn’t you hope that your country and fellow soldiers wouldn’t give up on you? Should they halt the search because there’s only one who needs rescuing? Isn’t one life worth the cost? Isn’t one soul worth the cost?

So Jesus told them this story: “If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them gets lost, what will he do? Won’t he leave the ninety-nine others in the wilderness and go to search for the one that is lost until he finds it? And when he has found it, he will joyfully carry it home on his shoulders. When he arrives, he will call together his friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep.’ In the same way, there is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine others who are righteous and haven’t strayed away! Luke 15:3-7

Be Strong in the Lord

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

Our small group has been studying the book of Jude. If you haven’t read Jude, you might want to dust off your Bible and read it. Jude is only one chapter with twenty-five verses. It would probably take ten minutes tops to read it in one sitting. What I find interesting about this book is that Jude continually writes in these few verses about apostasy in the church. If you don’t know what apostasy is, well here’s the definition.

Apostasy [uh-pos-tuh-see]: A total desertion of or departure from one’s religion, principles, party, cause, etc.

Jude’s full name was Judas, but who wants to have the same name as the disciple who betrayed Jesus? No one. And Jude was the brother of Jesus, so I’m sure it might have felt a bit uncomfortable to share the name of the man who betrayed your brother. I’d probably change my name, too.

But did you know that neither Jude nor the other three brothers of Jesus actually followed Jesus’ teachings while he was alive. It wasn’t until after he had risen from the dead that they became believers. Isn’t that interesting? Perhaps we should believe Jesus when he said that a prophet is not welcome in their own hometown. What child would actually believe that their older brother was the promised Messiah? I know that I never thought that my older brother was the Son of God.

And he said, “Truly, I say to you, no prophet is acceptable in his hometown. Luke 4:24

When Jude began writing his letter, his plan was to write about the faith he shared with his fellow believers. But he had to quickly change the tone of his letter when he learned that their church had been infiltrated by corrupt teachers. These teachers were now leading others astray by their false teaching and immoral behavior. Immoral behavior is a sign that someone’s theology has been tainted, otherwise they would still be following the teachings of Jesus.

These corrupt teachers were way off base and trying to take a church with them down a path to eternal death. It isn’t clear why they had stumbled in their walk of faith, but what we know is that they disobeyed the Word of God. Then they crept into the church unnoticed. Now they were encouraging others to follow their unsound teachings.

In his letter, Jude was urging the church to defend their faith. He was asking them to fight for what they believed and knew to be true. There are multiple ways to contend for our faith today. We can do it by calling out false teachers. We can support and applaud biblically sound teaching. Another way is to live out our Christian faith in an uncompromising way.

Jude had planned to write an encouraging and uplifting letter to this unnamed church but found he had to divert quickly in the letter to more pressing business. The same should be said for us today when we find false teachers quietly infiltrating our churches. We must stamp out the corrupt teaching and right the wrongs that have been done. We can’t let Satan’s work take shape in our churches or in our lives. We must fight the good fight until the end. We must contend for the gospel, which means that we must stand up and speak the truth even when it’s difficult.

Who knows. These corrupt teachers may have been well liked. Perhaps some people who were led astray believed those who had come into the church unnoticed were just misunderstood and should be given an opportunity to teach. Perhaps their teachings felt easier to follow than what Jesus had taught. But Jude knew what would happen if these infiltrators were allowed to continue preaching a false gospel. Many souls would be lost and the church would have seen a devastating loss.

Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. Luke 24:45

We might ask how false teachers can quietly infiltrate a biblically sound church. It seems like that can’t happen, but it has happened many times over. It was happening so soon after Jesus’ ascension into heaven, and it has never stopped. We see it in churches all around us today. There are wolves in sheep’s clothing who appear to be sincere in their faith, but are trying to thwart the truth behind closed doors. We must be on guard at all times.

Just recently, I spoke to someone who told me that most of the churches in our area do not teach biblical truths. Yet some people who attend these churches may never realize they’re being fed lies. Perhaps misinterpreting the Bible is confirmation that the sinful life they choose to live is acceptable. They’re not seeking biblical truth. They’re seeking affirmation of their choices.

We Christians must be united in our fight against the evil powers of darkness. Our faith is worth being protected. Our salvation wasn’t freely given. It was bought with a huge sacrifice by the Son of God. He paid with his life. We too must sacrifice our selfish goals and desires and maintain a steadfast faith in our Savior.

As Jesus walked with two followers on the road to Emmaus, he shared the Scriptures with them in detail. Oh. They didn’t realize he had just been raised from the dead that morning. They didn’t know who he was. So he showed them by quoting Scripture after Scripture, letting the truth sink deeply into their hearts. And then when he broke bread with them, their eyes were opened. They recognized who he was.

As I was writing this, I was reminded that we need to put on the full armor of God every single day. It’s so important that we don’t set it aside at the end of the day and forget it the next morning. We have to get fully dressed every day in order to keep the enemy at bay. Then I found a couple of quotes in “A Gospel Primer for Christians” by Milton Vincent that said the same thing.

As long as I am inside the gospel, I experience all the protection I need from the powers of evil that rage against me. It is for this reason that the Bible tells me to “take up” and “put on” the whole armor of God; and the pieces of armor it tells me to put on are all merely synonyms for the gospel. ~Milton Vincent

That God would tell me to “take up” and “put on” this gospel armor alerts me to the fact that I do not automatically come into each day protected by the gospel. In fact, these commands imply that I am vulnerable to defeat and injury unless I seize upon the gospel and arm myself with it from head to toe. And what better way is there to do this than to preach the gospel to myself and to make it the obsession of my heart throughout each day? ~Milton Vincent

Our hearts must be open to reading and studying the Scriptures so we can discern truth from lies. We’ll be caught off guard if we don’t know why we believe what we believe. We must be able to explain our faith in simple terms to those who may ask for proof. When we know the Scripture, then we will also be able to detect untruths someone else may foist upon us.

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. Ephesians 6:10-18

The Light of the World

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

I had just gotten into bed and turned off the light. Then I heard the doorbell camera chime. It chimes a lot when it’s windy outside, so I assumed it was just the wind. But then it chimed again, so I picked up my phone and opened the app. And I saw the beam of headlights heading straight toward the garage door. Someone was in the driveway. When I saw the vehicle, I knew immediately who it was. It was the neighbor plowing our driveway after ten o’clock on a snowy Saturday night. I nudged my husband, and he saw what I saw. A good neighbor, indeed.

This man who plowed our driveway is a good and thoughtful man. He’s been overly generous sharing the excess of what he has with us. He’s not typically one I would associate with, because our style of living is very different. He’s a little rough around the edges. I would say he’s not refined, but then I’m not sure I am either. We just have different priorities in life, and that’s ok. He’s good people.

He offered his lawn equipment and air conditioners to us to use free of charge. He freely gave of the excess of firewood to us and our friend. He’s taught his young adult son to be as thoughtful and giving as he is. He also works to make this small community of ours better and safer.

This man is no different from anyone else. He has his own set of faults and flaws. I’m sure if I spoke to his family, they might hint at some of his failings if the conversation went on long enough. I don’t need to know those things about him. I want to know him as a good neighbor.

Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” John 8:12

This man whose lights were beaming onto my garage door is a good man, but that won’t save him. He can perform acts of goodwill and kindness every day like it’s his job, but on judgment day that won’t be what God is looking for. God says that all mankind must seek forgiveness and repent of their sins. Jesus is the light of the world, for all of us walk in darkness. When we receive his forgiveness, we have received the light of the world into our lives.

For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light! For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true. Ephesians 5:8-9

Jesus is the fountain of life. The thing is. We can’t just look at the light, like I did from my doorbell camera. We must follow the light of the world. Wherever he leads, we must follow. We must walk in the light, for it is not only a light for our eyes. It is a light for our feet. Jesus says that if we follow him, we won’t walk in darkness, but we will have the light of life.

When we walk in spiritual darkness, we can’t see the path ahead. We make wrong decisions. We act on selfish impulses. We take risks that can cause life-altering changes. We stumble around not seeing the trouble that could be right in front of us . And we say that we love our life.

And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God. John 3:19-21

When Jesus said that he was the light of the world, he had just forgiven a woman caught in the act of adultery. That act would have typically sentenced the person to death by stoning. Her accusers stood nearby pointing the finger of shame and accusation at her, ready to throw stones. After Jesus heard their accusations, he bent down and wrote in the dust. Then he spoke a profound sentence that stunned every one of her accusers. He told this group of important men that the person in their group who had never sinned could throw the first stone of death at her. And guess what happened. When Jesus stood up to face them, the woman stood alone. All of her accusers had silently walked away. They too were guilty of sin. Perhaps not sins that required them to be publicly rebuked and stoned to death, but their sins may have been even greater than hers. And they knew it. Their silent walk of shame spoke more words than their loud accusations of adultery.

Yet Jesus did not require them to repent. He allowed them to walk away unchanged with hardened hearts. He knew and they knew they were guilty and needed to confess their sinful ways. They had the option to repent and turn to faith in the One who knelt drawing in the sand before them. And they did not.

But this woman caught in an adulterous act was not condemned by Jesus. He knew her sin, yet he told her to go and sin no more. He offered her a word of hope because he knew she would be shamed by her community. He knew she needed hope because her sin would perhaps cause her lifelong harmful consequences. She needed forgiveness and hope, which Jesus freely offered. And she walked away forgiven.

Read the story of the adulterous woman at John 8:1-11.

God does not push us to seek him. He waits for us. He’s everlastingly patient with each of us. But the light of the world continues to shine for all of us to see. And in our moments of despair, when all seems lost, the light of the world is waiting for us to reach out to him and repent. He will accept with open arms anyone who calls on his name. But we have to know that faith in God and salvation are always optional. It’s a risk we take when we choose to walk our own path in the darkness. We may believe that our walk in the darkness is a great life, but little do we know the joy and peace we’re missing without the light. Only the light of the world can save us.

But God never coerces us. Sometimes we wish He would make us obedient, and at other times we wish He would leave us alone. ~Oswald Chambers

We have a choice today and every day. We can choose to walk in darkness, or we can choose hope and forgiveness and the light of the world. If you are still walking in darkness, open your heart today and seek forgiveness of your sins and repent. Your faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior will lead you into his light.

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. Isaiah 9:2

He Knows My Name

~ mercyfortheday ~ Leave a comment

I’ve lived in this house for over a year now. I met my next door neighbor before we even moved in. And soon after we moved, he was added as a contact in my phone. He sold us a water softener system, and he’s been in my house multiple times and offered assistance in many other ways. As I type this, he’s in my garage changing the filters on the water softener. He occasionally calls me to check up on us if he doesn’t see us in the yard. He’s a good neighbor, indeed.

Just last week, I saw a new dentist. The dentist’s office is in my neighbor’s hometown about thirty minutes from where we live. The hygienist told me that she and her husband had grown up in that town, so I mentioned that my neighbor did, too. She asked his name, so I told her. And I told her that he works for the business his dad owns. She knew exactly who I was talking about. After living in a large city for many years, I’m still surprised when I talk to someone I don’t know who knows someone I do know. It doesn’t really happen too often in a large metropolitan area, but it seems to happen quite often around here.

But when I mentioned his name to the hygienist, she corrected me on his last name. For over a year now, I’ve had the wrong last name typed in my contact list. How that happened, I’m not really sure. I knew that I had initially confused the two last names, but I thought I had it correct. All this time, I’ve been wrong. Oh. I’ve never called him by the wrong last name. But I had mistakenly slapped the wrong name on him. I quickly corrected my contact list and made sure to inform my husband, because I had also given him the wrong information.

My neighbor will never know that I got his last name all mixed up. He’ll never know I’ve been calling him one name all the while it’s another one. I would definitely recognize him anywhere I saw him, but I would have gotten his last name wrong. That could have been embarrassing. But I’ve now been corrected, and all is good.

I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations. Jeremiah 1:5

God was intentional about creating me. His timing is perfect, and by his hand I was created. He knew me before I was formed in my mother’s womb, so of course, he knows my name. He has the most intimate and thorough knowledge of me, more so than anyone else. I’m his creation, and he created me with significance and purpose. God is the one who formed me in my mother’s womb, so he is the one who commissions me to go and serve him and him alone. He knows the plans he has for me.

I don’t have to worry about God forgetting my name or calling me by the wrong name. After all, he created me in his image and named me. He values me and wants to have a relationship with me. God is omniscient, so he knows everything. After all, he even knows the number of hairs on my head.

And just when I seem to forget all that God can do, I’m reminded that he knows when I sit and when I stand. He knows my thoughts. He knows the good and the ugly thoughts I have. Before I even speak, he knows what I will say. And he loves me with an unfailing love.

You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away. Psalms 139:2

I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself. Jeremiah 31:3

Oh. I don’t think my neighbor will need to walk with me through deep waters or go through rivers of difficulty with me. He won’t give his wife and daughter as a ransom for my freedom, but he has offered assistance more times that I can count. He isn’t my Savior, and he isn’t my Lord. He doesn’t need to redeem me. But he is the definition of a good neighbor. And now I know his name. But the one who knows me best and loves me most will do that and more for me. And he’s always known my name.

But now, O Jacob, listen to the Lord who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, “Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. I gave Egypt as a ransom for your freedom; I gave Ethiopia and Seba in your place. Isaiah 43:1-3

No. It isn’t all about me. The love of the Lord God Almighty is endless and reaches to the farthest corners of the world. Just as he loves me entirely, he loves everyone else the same. He knows your name just the same as he knows mine. And he will welcome you with open arms when you come to him in full repentance. Accept him today as your Lord and Savior and you will be welcomed into the family of God. He already knows your name, and he’s waiting for you to accept his call to repentance.

We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. 1 John 4:16