Ever wonder where we would be if no one gave us a chance? I taught a group of kids the other day that had extremely short term goals....tomorrow. When I asked why, their reply was "why not?" Their role models had gone no further and this inspired them to believe that they were done.
When I think of the potential, I have to ask myself why those children wouldn't change their direction, why they wouldn't aspire to reach higher heights?
We are much like that ourselves. We live in situations that are self imposed when God offers so much more. He offers life and peace and happiness and goodness, and mercy and grace. Regardless of where we have been, what we have done, the model someone else has left us, God gives offers forgiveness and a changed life.
What if Paul had "stayed where he was?" What if he would not have come to Christ and remained one who persecuted followers of Christ? Paul's road would not have ended with eternal life. He could have continued to do that but God had a plan for him just like he does for each of us.
Others may fail us, role models may fade but God's plan will never disappoint us. Regardless of who we were in the past, or what road was laid out for us in this life, God's plan does not include failure. Many times, we fall back into our unbelief. Perhaps that is because the pull of the world, or someone who went before us is so strong.
I thank God that He has shown me the way and I pray for those whose unbelief keeps them where they are. There is so much ahead for those who chose the way of Christ. Paul gave the credit to Jesus Christ who gave him strength. God will us strength. My prayer is that everyone will come to know Christ and that their unbelief or "threat of the past" will not keep them from that. There is a promise for a better tomorrow.
I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service. Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. 1 Timothy 1:12-14
No comments:
Post a Comment