experiencing God’s love

Apr

2024

Entering God’s Rest

Hebrews 4:1 – Therefore, since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it.

In this verse, believers are warned not to repeat the Israelites’ mistake in the wilderness and miss out on “entering his rest.” This verse offers an invitation and a challenge: to embrace God’s rest, signifying His salvation and presence.

Promise of God’s Rest

The Scripture emphasizes God’s enduring promise of rest – a spiritual reality and eternal destiny, not a physical state.

It’s a dynamic relationship, a divine provision, and a gift secured by Christ’s work.

We might think God’s rest is irrelevant or unattainable, but it’s what we truly need and long for.

Danger of Falling Short

The verse warns of the danger of “falling short” of God’s rest due to sin and unbelief. It’s a consequence of disobedience and rebellion, not a mere possibility.

We might think it’s avoidable or reversible, but the truth is, it’s a real and permanent consequence.

Means of Entering: Faith

The author reveals faith as the key to entering God’s rest. It’s trust and obedience in God and His Word, the confidence we have in His promises.

By faith, we access the rest He prepared for us, accomplished through Christ’s sacrifice, and applied by the Holy Spirit.

Faith is NOT optional, but it’s essential and sufficient; it’s what God requires and honors.

Goal of Resting

The Scripture verse implies the goal is to “rest” in God’s rest. It’s experiencing His peace, joy, and presence, worshiping and serving Him, and growing in His Word.

It’s not boring or unproductive; it’s what fulfills our purpose and destiny. We might think we need to find our own rest, but true rest is found in Him.

God offers us rest – His salvation and presence. He warns against missing it, teaches us to enter through faith, and invites us to experience the peace and joy of resting in Him. Embrace His offer and enter His rest.

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“One Minute with God”

Apr

2024

No Longer Slaves, But Heirs

Galatians 4:7 declares, “So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir”. This verse, from Paul’s letter to the Galatians, emphasizes our transformed identity in Christ. It contrasts our pre-salvation state with the freedom and inheritance we receive through faith.

From Bondage to Son-ship

Paul begins by stating we are “no longer slaves.” Slavery represents the oppression and control of sin. We were slaves to the law, unable to attain righteousness through its demands. We were slaves to the world, lured by its empty promises. We were slaves to the flesh, ruled by desires. Before Christ, we were alienated from God.

We might think slavery is irrelevant, but it limits our potential and hinders our relationship with God. The truth is, sin’s bondage robs us of joy and purpose.

Thankfully, the verse continues, “you are God’s child.” Son-ship signifies a state of grace and favor. When we accept Christ, we’re adopted by the Father, becoming part of His family. We are no longer strangers, but loved children.

Heirs: A Present and Future Reality

The verse further declares we are “heirs.” Heir-ship signifies entitlement to God’s promises. As God’s heirs, we have access to His presence, protection, provision, and guidance.

We share in Christ’s suffering and glory, His death and resurrection. We are co-heirs with Him, participating in His kingdom and mission.

We may perceive heir-ship as distant, but it’s a present reality. It enriches us, motivating and inspiring us. It challenges and transforms us, preparing us for what awaits.

Living by Faith

Finally, Paul implies living by “faith.” Faith is our response to our new identity in Christ. It’s trust and obedience towards God as our Father and Lord. It’s the confidence we have in His love and power.

Through faith, we live free from slavery, enjoying God’s love as His children. By faith, we claim the promises and blessings He offers.

We might think of faith as a feeling, but it’s a necessity. It pleases God, benefits us, strengthens us, and helps us witness to others. Faith overcomes the world and anticipates the future.

By grace, God has made us His children and heirs. He freed us from slavery and calls us to live by faith. Let us embrace our freedom and dignity as His children, loving, praising, serving, and glorifying Him as our Father.

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