God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalms 46:1
As followers, we believe the Bible is God's divinely inspired, sacred word revealed to men at different times and places. It is timeless and speaks today as when it was first written. I specify it speaks to followers because it makes no sense without faith in who God is. For example, recognizing God as our "refuge and strength" and our "very present help" means we must first know and accept God's existence.
We live in a day when fewer people have heard the message–the good news of God. Sadly, the little that is known of God is frequently misrepresented or used in religion versus science comparisons to try and debunk the idea of God. Society at significant works to spread the untruth of God because the truth sets people free. Rather than have us trust God as our "refuge and strength" and our "very present help," they would have us rely on human systems–agencies, bureaucracies, and governments. God's timeless, relevant word is a threat because it brings comfort, healing, and peace instead of discord, pain, and anxiety of the flawed devices of man.
Recognizing that the first step is for people to know the truth of God, it is essential that we share who God is and the hope found in him. Paul acknowledged this need in Romans 10:14, "But how are they to call on one in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone to proclaim him?"
There is urgency to this message. We don't have time to waste. For the next generation to spread the good news of God's deliverance through Jesus Christ, we must share the life-giving message now.
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of salvation and the privilege of being Your child. We ask that You fill us with Your Holy Spirit and give us boldness and courage to proclaim Your name to those who do not know You. Help us to overcome any fear, doubt, or hesitation that may hinder us from sharing Your love and truth. Use us as Your instrument to reach the lost and make disciples of all nations so they may know You as their refuge, strength, and ever-present help. We pray this in Jesus' name, Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
Comments