Pondering, I often come to the realization that my entry into His Kingdom was never in my hand. Jesus gave me access. He made me sit in heavenly places with Him. I am, but a grafted-in branch, joined by His allowance far beyond my own ability. How can I reach the depth of His love for me? With limited understanding and a narrow view, I strain to see beyond the boundaries of this life. It was always the Lord; keeping me; guiding, holding out grace when I was unwilling to grasp His hand.
Our perspectives are often so clouded. While we strive for the Kingdom and prove our faith by our works (James 2), Jesus is the Savior. He alone has rescued us by His tender mercies.
Paul said as much, “Eph 2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,” It seems reasonable to say that God’s wealth was never the material assets of this world. He is not enamored with the things He has made. Gold, silver, and precious stones pertain to us; they are not treasured by Him. Rather, He is rich in mercy. It might be concluded that He has plenty for me and more to spare!
It was never in my hand: my salvation, my strength to live, my voice to speak. It was always the kindness and provision of the God whose omnipotence cannot be measured by mortal man. Our abilities for rational thought only prove that He is the Creator. He gave us the opportunity to do right. To Israel God said: Deu 30:19 “ I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live.”
Pondering was the position of David on the hillside tending sheep. He looked to the skies and saw the wonders of God’s love. He considered himself juxtaposed against the endless heaven. The reflection of Him is clear: Rom 1:20 For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities–his eternal power and divine nature–have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.
Clearly seen! There is no way around it. Our God is holy, altogether irrefutable. One would have to purposely ignore the elements to dismiss Him. But for us… those who are Blood-bought, we stand in reverence that our souls have been rescued, saved, by His goodness. The thought that He loved me is more than enough.
Pastor Jeffrey Harpole
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