“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.” -Isaiah 40:8 (NASB)
When I reflect upon this word, I think of the things in my life that used to be and are no more. Some things I have outgrown, some things just didn’t last. I can honestly say that through it all what has lasted is the truth and life of God’s word.
I set out on a journey reading through the Bible and started with the Old Testament. I read through the beginning of time to the last pages of Revelation. I can’t come up with a word that adequately describes the impact the Old Testament had on me. I know I was grossed-out by the barbaric ways of the times and intrigued by all the rules. Yet God, revealed Himself to me in such a way that it feels as though I have a strong anchor that is keeping me steadied in these trying times.
My view of God while reading the Old Testament was a mixed bag of questions like why God would or wouldn’t do something, then I’d be in total awe of His Holiness. Once I realized the holiness part of who God is, I found it humbling to think He would want to set up commands for us to follow, for our own good, knowing we would falter at keeping them. Yet this same God who created the universe, wants us to know Him and willingly laid down His life so we can receive His unfailing love and eternal life. Why would He do that?
It's hard to understand His love for a people who turn their back on His commands, His laws and rebel against everything He is for. But God gave us a way to be forgiven through Jesus (John 3:16). I’m glad He did that.
Father, the creator of heaven and earth, the God of the ages, thank you for revealing yourself to us, for giving us principals to live by and a way to be with You forever. Thank you for your word of truth. May we allow Christ to dwell in our hearts through faith, may we be able to comprehend the depth of Your love and be filled with your fullness. (Eph. 3)
This devotion by author, Terrie Miles, is exclusively and solely shared with permission to New Beginnings Church. Any unauthorized printed reproduction, sharing or use of this material is prohibited.
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