“God’s promises, even though delayed, are not endangered.
Danger and doubt don’t change his promises.”
I jotted that note down a few weeks ago in church when one of our pastors was sharing from the Word, and I’ve thought of it several times since. The fact that God doesn’t change, that Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow has long been a comfort to me—and it’s becoming more so all the time.
On a flight to Orlando last weekend, I was drawn to the book of Revelation and I poured over the first few chapters, making notes (and getting ready for BSF this fall!). The phrase “patient endurance” stood out to me (Rev 1:9 and 2:2), as did Jesus’s admonition to the church in Smyrna in 2:10…
“Don’t be afraid of what you are about to suffer. The devil will throw some of you into prison to test you. You will suffer for ten days. But if you remain faithful even when facing death, I will give you the crown of life.”
What amazing comfort and encouragement to know that Jesus sees all, knows all, is in control of all.
So much of what God communicates in those chapters seems tailor made for our times. And yet, there’s strange comfort in realizing that mankind hasn’t changed through the years. Those words given by God over 2,000 years ago described the hearts of people in the world then, and now.
He promises to be with us, to give us the strength to remain faithful, and that a crown of life awaits for the faithful. What assurance. Assurance we can trust. Because his promises, even though delayed, are never endangered. Danger and doubt don’t change his promises. And aren’t we thankful!
Is there a scripture—or certain truth, encouragement—the Lord has laid on your heart in recent days? Or perhaps a delayed promise you’re still trusting in that we could join in prayer about for you? Also, are there any other BSF buddies who are looking forward to Revelation this fall like me?
Tammy
Tamera Alexander
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Thank you for your words of encouragement, Tammy. I needed them this morning.
So glad we’re on this journey together, Lynn. Much love to you, friend. #TheBestIsYetToCome
Every time I open the Bible I find instruction that seems to be directed specifically at me. 🙂 I read these words, from John 16 (The Message translation) yesterday and they struck me. “I’m not abandoned. The Father is with me. I’ve told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I’ve conquered the world.” I especially love the, “TRUSTING ME, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace,” promise. Thanks for your post today, Tammy!
Oh…LOVE that translation, Becky. Thanks for sharing. “I’m not abandoned. The Father is with me.” What powerful and ageless words!
Wonderful, encouraging post, Tammy. Also, I sure enjoyed reading Among the Fair Magnolias. 🙂
Hey Lenora, thanks for visiting today, and for the kind words about ATFM. SO glad you’re with us!! Even if you DO tend to steal things at RT. : )
Loved this post, Tammy.
It amazes me how certain verses in my Bible will “speak to me” – – verses I’ve read many, many times, and suddenly it’s as if I’m seeing the words in a new light. I’m currently reading through the Psalms (one of my favorite books!) again, and even though I’ve read these chapters countless times, a verse recently caught hold of me, so I highlighted it.
LET MY HEART BE SOUND IN THY STATUTES; THAT I BE NOT ASHAMED. (Psalm 119:80)
As I read, then re-read those words, it was a reminder to me that in these troubled times our world seems to be in, we Christians must not be ashamed of our beliefs, and we must strive to live our beliefs and be an example to the world around us. And of course to do that my heart must be sound in my Christian beliefs. 🙂
Hugs to you, Patti Jo
Love that verse…and you, Patti Jo! His Word certainly IS living and active. And it also tells us that only a spiritually minded person will truly be able to grasp its meaning. Meaning of unlimited depths in Christ! The older I get, the more I want to hide his Word in my heart. Thanks for sharing.
More than once in my life, Tammy, you have said to me, “God was not surprised by this.” There is such comfort in those words, that He has ordained every event in my life, and He is there to go through it with me, to give me strength, comfort, hope, and joy in the journey. Good words you wrote. Thank you so much.
It comforts me too, Deb, to know that nothing catches Him off guard. And also to realize that, in one sense, we were MADE for this world. God has given us everything we need to not simply “endure” this life, but to be conquerers through him who loved us while we’re here! In the midst of all of this “stuff” going on in the world around us, we have the privilege—the peace-giving, soul-stirring, life renewing privilege—to be able to step back and view this world in a different light. And to know that “this” is not all there is. Not hardly! This life is just a blink. God is in control. No. Matter. What. Happens. He reigns supreme, and…he calls us his children. His daughters. How incredibly blessed we are. And what a treasure we have to share with others.
Such good words, Tamara! I cling to the same thought. God is not surprised, and His Words are good day after day, time after time.
Appreciate you, Cara, and the woman of God you are. Blessings, friend.